Mike and Susie met at Purdue University in 1963. Susie’s roommate was dating Mike’s roommate, which led to their introduction. They quickly hit it off, spending many memorable moments together, with Mike often waiting for Susie in the greeting room at St. Elizabeth. Both graduated in 1966, and their journey together began.
Married on January 14, 1967, they welcomed their first son, Scott, soon after. Their daughter, Lori, was born in 1969 and is now the primary caregiver for Mike. Despite facing the challenges of Susie’s battle with Parkinson’s, dementia and Alzheimer’s, their bond remained unbreakable. Susie passed away in January of 2022 at 77 years old. Reflecting on his life with her, Mike shared,
Two and a half years later I am still in love with her, and I will be forever.
Susie was a natural-born leader and an exceptional nurse. She began her career in nursing and quickly rose to the position of supervisor on the third shift, a reflection of her leadership qualities and dedication. Her early career was marked by her ability to inspire and lead her peers, earning her the respect and admiration of those around her.
Her dedication to nursing was not just professional but deeply personal. Mike recalls, “She was totally devoted to nursing, very thoughtful and never got mad at anyone.” Her tremendous rapport with patients and colleagues made her a beloved figure in the medical community. Even after a doctor advised her to retire from nursing due to her health, Susie found new ways to bring joy and comfort to others.
Mike’s career also reflected a strong sense of purpose and dedication. After graduating, he worked for four years at Beeler Corporation, a helicopter transmission company, contributing to the war effort in his own way despite being unable to serve due to a physical accident. He later joined General Electric, where his career continued to flourish.
The Castors lived in Indianapolis for seven years before moving to Evansville, where Susie once again became a supervisor, a role she excelled in everywhere she went thanks to her natural leadership abilities. Her career path took a significant turn when they decided to open a toy store, a venture that allowed Susie to bring happiness and creativity to countless children.
She transformed into “Grandma Toy,” a beloved figure in the toy store Mike and Susie bought in the early 2000s, where she encouraged children to play and explore. She believed in the power of interactive play and often joined in the fun, creating a magical environment for children and their families. The store was not just a business but a reflection of Susie’s generous spirit and love for children.
The Susan (Hoenigman) Castor St. Elizabeth School of Nursing Scholarship was established by Mike in Susie’s honor to support nursing students at St. Elizabeth School of Nursing, ensuring that her legacy of care and leadership lives on. This scholarship is a fitting tribute to Susie’s life, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of nurses who will continue her work of compassion and excellence.
Mike’s love for Susie and his commitment to honoring her memory is a testament to their remarkable life together. The St. Elizabeth community is deeply grateful for his generosity and the lasting impact it will have on future generations of nurses. Through this scholarship, Susie’s spirit of dedication and kindness continues to inspire and support those who follow in her footsteps.
As seen in the The Lamp Fall 2024 issue
