Suzanne M. Schatzle

With profound sadness, the family of Suzanne M. Schatzle announces her unexpected passing on August 20, 2026. Suzanne was a beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose warmth, compassion, humor, and generous heart touched the lives of so many.

Suzanne was the loving daughter of Margaret J. “Peggy” Schatzle and the late Philip L. Schatzle, and the granddaughter of the late William and Margaret McKenna and the late Francis and Mary Nevins Schatzle.

Suzanne grew up in Cold Spring, New York, a place that remained close to her heart throughout her life. She graduated from Haldane Central School District as a member of the Class of 1982, where she was a cheerleader, and later earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University.

Suzanne devoted much of her professional life to helping others. She enjoyed a long and distinguished career with Westchester County as a Supervising Probation Officer and was recognized for her outstanding service. Her work was especially meaningful when she advocated for victims of domestic violence and helped people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Helping others was not simply Suzanne’s profession; it was an essential part of who she was. If someone needed food, a helping hand, or words of encouragement, Suzanne would do whatever she could to help.

Suzanne also embraced the joy and creativity life had to offer. She loved creating art and was involved with the Third Place community and improv. She enjoyed comedy, open mic nights, trivia, local community events, and volunteering at the Jacob Burns Film Center. Her creativity, humor, and colorful clothing reflected the vibrant and authentic life she chose to live.

Suzanne knew how to live life to the fullest. She found beauty in simple pleasures—a scenic drive through New York, picking wildflowers as the sun was setting, or reminiscing about her childhood in Cold Spring and the days she spent near the Hudson River. She had a special place in her heart for animals and was known to feed the strays she encountered. She especially adored her sweet dog, Josie Isabella, who brought her tremendous companionship and joy.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Arielle Lhotan; her mother, Margaret “Peggy” Schatzle; her brother, Philip A. Schatzle; her sister Margaret M. (Peggy) Schatzle; her uncle, Patrick “Packy” Shields; her uncle and aunt, Richard and Carol McKenna; as well as many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives she touched.

Suzanne will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her compassion, creativity, humor, love of animals, dedication to helping others, and ability to find beauty and hope in the world around her.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that Suzanne is now at peace and reunited in heaven with her loving father, Philip, and the grandparents and loved ones who went before her. Her spirit, her stories, and the love she gave will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in loving remembrance of Suzanne at Our Lady of Loretto Church in Cold Spring, New York, followed by interment. The date and time will be announced by the family as soon as arrangements are finalized.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.