In loving memory of
Susan Mintenko
January 31, 1949 – July 21, 2026
Susan Ann Mintenko (77) passed away at St. Joseph’s Health Centre (Toronto), on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
Susan was born in Port Arthur on January 31, 1949 to William and Margaret Harju. She was raised in Kashabowie, Ontario, where her family owned the village's general store. Susan attended Kashabowie School, with her lifelong friends , known as the “Kashabowie Cuties”. After elementary school, she moved to Thunder Bay attending Port Arthur Collegiate Institute. Susan furthered her education, completing her training at the McKellar General Hospital School of Medical Technology, graduating (1969) as a Registered Medical Laboratory Technologist.
Susan’s career began at McKellar General Hospital, until Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre opened (2004). Over her 50 year career, Susan was known as a consummate professional of the highest standard. Beloved by her colleagues, Susan formed and maintained friendships with many, even after retirement.
Susan lived life to the fullest. She had boundless energy and was constantly in motion. Whether she was working magic in the kitchen or labouring in her wondrous garden, she cultivated unconditional love, beauty, and light. Susan maintained a busy social life, enjoying the company of close friends and family. One of Susan’s greatest joys was travelling with family. Whether it was trips to see her beloved Blue Jays, the mountains of Alberta, or the beaches of the Dominican Republic, Susan was always up for adventure. Living an active life, it is no wonder that she often enjoyed a nap with a cat or book in her lap.
Susan will be lovingly remembered by her children, Kristen (Sheldon), Jonathan (Kristiina) and their father Alex.(Erin); grandchildren William, Samantha, Andrew, Anthony, Jonah; her sister, Brenda, brother, John (Laurie); nieces, Erin (Dave), Jamie (Ryan), nephew, John Jr. (Linda), great nieces Raija, Penelope, Taylor, great nephews Devon, Nathan, and her treasured Maine Coons, Luna and Lily.
Susan was predeceased by her father, William and mother, Margaret.
Susan maintained her zest for life to the end and was the epitome of how to live a life of unconditional love, integrity and SISU. We will cherish our memories of our wonderful mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. She was caring and beautiful, inside and out. To say we were blessed to have this remarkable woman in our lives is an understatement. She will remain in our hearts forever.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Susan’s life will be held in her garden, at 11:00, Thursday, August 13, 2026. As this is a celebration of Susan’s life, please dress in colourful garden casual. Family internment will follow (Riverside Cemetery).
Donations in memory of Susan may be directed to the Northern Cancer Fund via the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation (healthsciencesfoundation.ca/cancer).
“Brief is life but love is long.”
This obituary was published by the family with Cleo Cremation.