January 1, 1960 ~ April 13, 2019
Suzanne “Suzi” Valdez Eaquinto died at her home on April 13, 2019 after inspiring those around her with her positive approach to life, commitment to her health and unwavering devotion to her family.
Suzi was born on January 1, 1960 — “the first flower child”— in Dragerton, Utah to Juan A (Tony) and Inez Valdez, the youngest of their four daughters. She graduated from East Carbon High School in 1978. She later graduated from the College of Eastern Utah and Western Governors University with a bachelor’s in nursing.
Together with her first husband, Dennis Oakley, she had two children, Shanna and Brian, who were her greatest pride and joy. Suzi was an adoring mother, teaching and nurturing them throughout their childhoods.
She enjoyed a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse and nurse administrator at Grove Creek Surgery Center, Castleview Hospital and Brigham City Community Hospital.
Suzi married her soulmate, Jimmy Eaquinto, on September 24, 2005. They built a fun-loving and remarkable life together. Suzi’s most treasured role was that of “Grammy” to her grandson Isaac.
Suzi was honored to have taken part in Operation Smile in India as part of a team that performed 540 surgeries in 10 days to help children suffering from facial deformities. She was also active in the charity Soroptimist International in Salt Lake and Price, and volunteered with the American Red Cross.
Suzi is survived by her husband Jimmy; Joe the dog; children Shanna (Josh) Velasquez and their son Isaac, Salt Lake; Brian (Katie) Oakley of Portland, Oregon; stepchildren Jaymee (Pat) Sanderson, and their children Gianna and Kaden, Farmington; Dustin Eaquinto, Salt Lake; and Audra Eaquinto, Salt Lake; mother Inez Valdez, East Carbon; sisters Zena (Butch) Robinson, Price; Juanita (Willo) Valdez, Helper; and Bobbi (Randy) Mabbutt, Price; special sister-in-law Roslyn (Randy) Gunderson, West Jordan; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Juan A. (Tony) Valdez; special nephew Cameron Robinson; and her in-laws, Jim and Katie Eaquinto.
Her family would like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at Jordan Valley Cancer Center and Cheryl and the team at IHC Hospice.
A funeral Mass was celebrated April 17 at Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church in Price. Interment at Price City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Suzi requested donations be made to Operation Smile in her honor: http://support.operationsmile.org/goto/smilesforsuzi
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