Susan Garstka: A Ray of Sunshine Amidst a Lifetime of Love and Laughter
Susan Garstka is a cherished resident at The Leavitt Family Jewish Home, enjoying life to the fullest. From the moment Susan Garstka enters a room, she brings warmth, energy, and joy. Her family says she has always had a gift for making people smile!
Born in Westfield, Massachusetts, the only child of Ernie and Christine Viens, Susan spent much of her childhood in the Springfield area. She graduated from Classical High School and then attended Westfield State College and obtained a teaching degree. It is there that she met her husband, Wally Garstka. They look forward to celebrating their 59th anniversary this coming July!
An only child, family has always been at the center of Susan’s life. She was a stay-at-home mom and devoted herself to caring for her husband and raising her four children: Jeff, Scott, Tim and Missy. Susan was known for always putting others first and making sure everyone felt loved and cared for. When her grandchildren were born, she devoted a lot of her time to babysitting for them and having them over to her house. She and her husband were always involved in their day-to-day activities, attending birthday parties, dance classes, and school performances. Her eight grandchildren—Ethan, Andrew, Max, Brandon, Nolan, Abby, Will, and Michael—are a constant source of pride and joy.
Susan’s home was famously stocked with every favorite snack and cereal imaginable, just in case one of the grandchildren stopped by. Whether it was cookies, Pop-Tarts, or a favorite breakfast treat, Susan wanted everyone to feel welcome and cared for. She also loved to stay busy. Her family laughs when they talk about her constant cleaning, running errands, folding laundry, and maintaining the household. Her house was spotless. “She vacuumed twice a day for 50 years!” exclaims Jeff.
When her children got older, Susan returned to the classroom. She devoted over 20 years as a first-grade teacher. Her dedication, warmth, and talent earned her the prestigious Golden Apple Award. Even years after she retired, former students would still approach her to say, “I’ll always remember that you were my first-grade teacher!” It’s obvious Susan made a lasting impact in many people’s lives, not only through education, but through her kindness and encouragement.
Her son Jeff describes her as “a very giving and happy person.” My mom loves making other people happy,” he says. “She’s the quintessential first grade teacher. She was always smiling. I remember that she’d grab our hands and start dancing. Her natural outgoing demeanor has helped her stay engaged with her memory problems. Whether caring for her family, teaching young children, or chatting with new friends, Susan spreads sunshine wherever she goes.”
Susan became a resident at the Home after a brief rehab stay at Sosin Center for Rehabilitation. Jeff remarked, “I’m very grateful that we happened upon this place that we were able to get her in for rehab here. And grateful that they found her. The dementia care household is the appropriate place for her; she is able to move around and do what she wants to do. She’s even found a chair that she really likes!”
Jeff continued, “She feels she’s at home here in many ways. Most importantly, she believes that the nurses and aids are part of her extended family. Certainly, she doesn’t feel like she’s living at a facility.”
The family is thankful Susan is safe, involved, and surrounded by the caring staff at The Leavitt Family Jewish Home. She participates in activities, enjoying music, laughing with residents and staff and bringing smiles to those around her. “We are thrilled to see her enjoying familiar routines and remaining active in meaningful ways,” says Jeff. “Staying engaged is vital for individuals living with memory challenges.”
Susan’s story is one of love, generosity, and connection. She has spent a lifetime lifting others up, and her joyful spirit brightens our community each and every day.
