Death of Susan Bush Joachim, former Global Mission Intern to the Democratic Republic of Congo
October 16, 1955 – April 3, 2012
Global Ministries is saddened to share news of the death of former Global Ministries Global Mission Intern to theDemocratic Republic of the Congo, Susan Bush Joachim. She was the wife of Evan and mother of Luke and Whitley, and died peacefully Tuesday, April 3, 2012, surrounded by love.
Su was born October 16, 1955, inSeattle,Washington, to Ann Williams and Richard Bush. She was the youngest sibling of Steve, Debbie, and Larry. She and her extended family were active members of University Christian Church. Su graduated fromRooseveltHigh Schoolprior to attending and graduating fromUniversityofPuget Sound. During her undergraduate years she spent time studying and working inFrance. Following graduation she spent two years inZaire(today theDemocratic Republic of the Congo) teaching English as a second language for the Division of Overseas Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). After a short time teaching inAlaskashe moved toOakland,California, where she met and married Evan Joachim. In 1991 they had their first child, Luke, and in 1993 their daughter, Whitley. Both children, of whom she was very proud, graduated from high school inOaklandand are presently in college. Luke is at Loyola inNew Orleansand Whitley at theUniversityofPuget SoundinTacoma,Washington. Su worked for the Asia Foundation inSan Franciscoand was an active member atLakeshoreAvenueBaptistChurch.
In 2000, Susan was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. After a five year remission, she was diagnosed again in 2007. Due to medical complications as a result of radiation damage, she was in and out of the hospital for many years and against all odds, her positive spirit and stubborn love carried her through.
A memorial service and reception will be held in Oakland, California, at LakeshoreAvenueBaptistChurch(3534 Lakeshore AvenueOakland, CA94610) on June 16th, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. Consistent with Su’s desire to make a positive impact on the world, the family suggests remembrances to: Women’s Cancer Resource Center, Asia Foundation, or Lakeshore Avenure Baptist Church 3534 Lakeshore Avenue Oakland, CA 94610. Condolences may be sent to Mr. Evan Joachim,766 Calmar Avenue,Oakland,CA 94610-1729.