Mary Loweree

Mary Sue VandenBrink was born May 28, 1938 in Sioux City. The place she has always called home. She spent her childhood there with her loving parents George and Lucille VandenBrink and brother John. Then they lived in Omaha for a bit before moving to Towson, MD when she was in high school. That was where she met Don Loweree. Their relationship grew and they were married at the age of 22. Sue attended Parson's school of Design in NYC, while modeling and acting. They spent the next 10 years exploring, living in New Orleans, the Bahamas, back to NYC, then finally settling in Easton, MD where they had Andy and Annie. Sue and Don stayed together until the kids left the nest, then divorced. Sue stayed in Easton for the next 20 years, supporting herself with a gardening business, and occasionally selling her artwork. She attended classes at Chesapeake college, then decided at the age of 70 to get a bachelor’s and master’s in creative writing from the University of Baltimore. After having a mini-stroke in 2015, she decided it was a good idea to move closer to family. She landed in Durango, CO and spent the next 4 years reconnecting with ex-husband Don, son Andy and family and daughter Annie and family. It was great for her to be able to have grandkid time.

Sue had a very full life. She was an actress and model. She loved the theatre and was able to experience all aspects of it, from acting in NYC plays and commercials, to directing a high school group and performing in small-town groups. She was also an amazing musician and singer. She played everything from the harp, piano, recorder, guitar and stand-up bass, to mention a few. Her voice was powerful and she lit up the room when she sang. She also had a passion for art. Mainly watercolor painting, but also needlepoint, stained glass and various other crafts. Later in life she grew a passion for writing; illustrating and writing a children’s book, writing many poems and beginning the long process of gathering all the information on her parents to write their memoirs. She was an energetic lady full of kindness and mischief. The life of the party in all aspects. A wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mom, and friend to many. She will be greatly missed.

Sue Loweree passed on June 23rd at 3:10 pm with total grace and comfort. Sue is survived by; her ex-husband and friend, Don Loweree; her children: Andy Loweree and Annie Williams; her grandchildren: Lila Loweree, Taylor Williams and Kylie Williams; her brother, John VandenBrink; her nephews: Dan VandenBrink, Wes VandenBrink and Graham VandenBrink; and extended family members and many dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Church, Hospice House, Art Center, Garden Club, Theatre Group or Music Programs in Sue's name ... places that she loves. There will be a virtual ceremony on July 11, 4pm MST. The link will be added to the following site when available: mykeeper.com/profile/MarySueLoweree