Susan Cooper Lacey, 67, who loved Tahoe and environs, including previously living in Gardenerville, passed away on Dec. 18, 2025, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Sue remained active and vibrant right up until her sudden heart attack. For decades, she worked as a wild-lands and forest firefighter in Nevada and surrounding states, well into her 50s. That demanding role required intense yearly tests of strength and endurance. She thrived on the adrenaline of the front lines and the camaraderie of teammates; most were half her age. Her commitment to service also led her to various search and rescue teams, including the 2003 recovery mission for space shuttle Columbia.
She lived with a humble spirit and an adventurous soul, forging deep and lasting connections everywhere she lived and worked. The mountains and wide-open American West were Sue’s true home. Her friends across Nevada, California, Oregon, Idaho, and New Mexico became her extended family.
Sue’s compassion was most evident in her devotion to animals. She never met a cat she didn’t love. In every town she called home, Sue was a fixture at local cat shelters, forming close bonds with staff, fellow volunteers and countless kitties who benefited from her affection and care.
One of Sue’s final outings was attending Albuquerque’s famous Hot Air Balloon Menorah, a beautiful Chanukah tradition with nine glowing hot-air balloons floating above the desert.
Sue was the loving daughter of Libby and Marx Cooper of Oak Park, Michigan; devoted sister of Alex (Mari) Cooper, Michael Cooper, and Lisa Cooper; proud and adoring aunt of David Cooper (Chris Zoia) and Rebecca Cooper; niece of Ada Bandalene and Sanford Cooper. She was a dedicated cat mom of five.
Arrangements were made by Director’s Choice in Albuquerque. To view the memorial service, email SuzieCooperLacey@gmail.com. Contributions in Sue’s memory may be made to Fabulous Felines – Albuquerque (FabulousFelines.org).
