Susanne E. Steinmetz passed away on March 23, 2016 surrounded by her family.

Susanne was born and raised in Gilroy, California. She was very proud of her family's long history in California and Gilroy in particular. She was employed with the City of Gilroy for 45 years. She started part time, in 1952, at 15 years old, assisting then City Clerk, Graydon Carr with typing and filing. In 1956, at 19 years old, she was the youngest person, hired full time as the City Clerk of Gilroy where she remained until she retired in August 1997. Susanne lived out her retirement in Grants Pass, Oregon for the last 19 years.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Daisy Eddys Thomas and father, James Benjamin Thomas. She is survived by her children, Jill Steinmetz of Gilroy, CA, Jayne Steinmetz of Austin, Texas, Thom (Carla) Steinmetz of Hollister, CA, and Tym Steinmetz of Grants Pass, OR. Grandchildren, Justin Elliott and Josh Elliott of Gilroy, CA and Olivia Steinmetz of Hollister, CA. Sisters, Margaret (Steven) Wolford of San Martin, CA and Debbie Thomas of Kelseyville, CA. Many cousins, nieces and nephews, including Michael Valdez of Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Michele Valdez of Ontario, CA, Spencer Hensey of Peoria, AZ , and Emma Hensey of Kelseyville, CA. Many other friends and family especially Gary, Susan, & Joe Steinmetz of Coarsegold, CA.

At Susanne's request there will be no services. However, her family would like to honor the great mother and woman she was with a celebration of life. The celebration will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Gilroy VFW Hall at 74 W. 6th Street at 1:00pm.