Dr. Susan Duran Heide passed away peacefully at home on August 20, 2026. Born on November 17, 1941, in Cranesville, Pennsylvania, Susan was the daughter of Martin and Susan (Hanas) Duran. Her journey through life was marked by her dedication to education, her love for the arts, and travel.
Susan graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School in 1958, completed a Master’s degree in Education from Duquesne University in 1979, and earned a Ph.D. from the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh in 1992. She taught high school English at Mt. Lebanon High School and Peters Township High School in Pittsburgh, PA. Susan’s passion for teaching led her to the University of Wisconsin – Superior, from which she retired as an Associate Professor of Education and Director of Field Experience.
She was an avid Pittsburgh Penguins fan and loved the theater and music performances available in Pittsburgh. Her adventurous spirit took her around the globe to see and experience the places she had read about.
Susan was predeceased by her husband, Rev. August William Heide, her parents, one brother, and seven sisters. She is survived by her children, Jill (Heide) Hansen and Carl Heide, and her grandchildren, Niels and Christian Hansen. Susan is also remembered fondly by her brother, Martin Duran, and many nieces and nephews.
A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor Susan’s life at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford, PA. Burial will be in Waterford Community Cemetery East.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Susan’s memory can be made to Lutheran World Relief, helping the poorest communities build resilience and thrive. To send condolences, please visit www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.
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