Susan M. Beckwith (Camdenton)'s Obituary
Susan Beckwith would want everyone to know that all she ever said her obituary needed to read was simply: “Sue died.” True to her spirit, she never missed a chance for humor, even when facing life’s most serious moments. While that line made her smile, her life deserves to be remembered for so much more. With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life filled with love, we announce the passing of Susan Beckwith, a beloved mother, grandmother, and soon-to-be great-grandmother, who passed away at the age of 70 on December 14, 2025. Susan was born in Chicago, IL the daughter of Carna (Hillig) and Eckhart Ihnen, whom she now joins in eternal peace. A proud graduate of Mother McAuley Catholic High School, Susan carried her sense of compassion throughout her life. Susan had a rare gift for bringing smiles to everyone she met—through her quick wit, warmth, and unmistakable kindness. She delighted in sharing stories from her vibrant, younger years including throwing unapproved parties at her parents' house with a Harley Davidson leaking oil in the living room, working at the Chicago Stock Exchange, and being cast as an extra in the iconic The Blues Brothers film, a fun brush with cinematic history that matched her spirited personality. Above all else, Susan cherished her family. Following her parents' retirement to Lake of the Ozarks, she relocated in 1982 to raise her children near their grandparents. Many a weekend were spent swimming, boating, and visiting with extended family at "Ihnen's Idyll." Susan was a proud mother of her daughters, Stephanie (Chris) Heimbeaugh and Colleen (Mac) McNally, and a loving grandmother to Caitlin Cone and Hunter Heimbeaugh. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she loved them fiercely. Susan was also a lifelong animal lover. Over the years, she adopted and took in many stray animals, giving them safe homes and loving them well into their golden years. Her heart for animals was immense and reflected the generosity and empathy that defined her life. Susan’s legacy lives on in the laughter she sparked, the love she gave so freely, the family she held so dear, and the gentleness she showed to every living thing. In honor of Susan’s memory, the family encourages donations to your local animal shelter/sanctuary or any of the wonderful global organizations working to save and rehabilitate our furry or feathered friends — and, in true Sue fashion, asks everyone to also honor her by helping the turtles safely cross the road, taking time to listen to squirrels at play, feeding the birds in the winter, and always being kind to the opossums. Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home in Camdenton, Missouri.
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