02/11/2026
Susanne E. (Baldridge) Burgess, 79, of Phoenix, AZ passed away February 2, 2026. Susanne was born March 4, 1947, in Coldwater, Michigan to Rosabelle Burch Baldridge of Augusta, GA and Niles S. Baldridge of Coldwater, MI. Preceded in death by her husband Richard H. Burgess, of 49 years. Susanne leaves behind a life richly lived and deeply felt by those who knew her. Susanne was a woman of warmth, wit, and steadfast loyalty—someone who cultivated friendships, pursued her passions with enthusiasm, and found joy in both her professional accomplishments and personal pursuits.
Susanne’s life was shaped early by the friendships she formed at the University of Arizona where she was socially active and fully engaged in campus life. She graduated in 1968 with a degree in business and it was there that she met Richard, the man who would become her husband on August 23, 1969. They would go on to celebrate their 25th anniversary by renewing their vows on August 13,1994.
Her professional journey began humbly as a bank teller in Michigan, a role that marked the start of a long and successful career in banking. Through dedication, integrity, and hard work, Susanne built a career that spanned many years and ultimately led her to Wells Fargo and then onto eFunds, where she retired after a distinguished tenure. Her colleagues knew her as capable, reliable, and personable, someone who took pride in her work and valued the people she worked with.
Her personal life was devoted to her deep love of dogs and her extraordinary involvement in the dog show community. An avid exhibitor, she specialized in
English Springer Spaniels, raising and showing multiple dogs who went on to earn national titles. Through Sahuaro State Kennel Club is where Sue and Tina Ulman met. Susanne’s knowledge, sportsmanship, and passion for the breed earned her widespread respect, and she later became a highly regarded dog show judge at both local and national levels. Whether in the ring or mentoring others, Susanne approached the sport with grace, expertise, and genuine enthusiasm.
Susanne also found joy in quieter, creative moments. She was an accomplished needlepoint artist, creating masterpieces and friendships. She volunteered for many years at Family Arts Needlework Shop, where her love of needlepoint and enjoyment of the community of stitchers provided great joy. Additionally, she was a regular and enthusiastic bridge player, and someone who delighted in both good music and company. In later years, she especially enjoyed honky-tonk music and the lively, welcoming atmosphere of Cave Creek, a place that perfectly matched her spirited and social nature.
Throughout her life, Susanne remained socially engaged, curious, and connected. She showed up for her friends, and grandchildren, celebrated their milestones, and brought laughter and conversation wherever she went. Her presence was steady and comforting, her interests wide-ranging, and her friendships deeply cherished.
Susanne leaves behind a legacy of friendship, dedication, and joy—a portrait of a woman who lived fully, loved generously, and left every circle she joined a little brighter. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who have had the privilege of knowing her.
Susanne is survived by daughter Christina “Tina” and (Ted) Ulman and grandchildren Susanne, Rebecca, John, Katarina and Olivia Ulman of Peoria, Arizona plus numerous cousins in Illinois, California, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas.
Services will be held Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at 1:30pm at All Saints Episcopal Church, 6300 N Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ. Burial to follow at Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary & Cemetery, 2300 W Van Buren Ave., Phoenix, AZ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the English Springer Spaniel Foundation http://englishspringerfoundation.org and/or the Sahuaro State Kennel Club.
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