Susan Lea Green

Beloved and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother Sue Green passed away peacefully May 6. Sue was well-known for her hallmark smile and ever-positive outlook.
This proud Chicago native graduated from Sullivan High School and University of Wisconsin at Madison, then began selling women's clothing in New York. In 1959, she married charismatic actor, physicist and glider pilot, Michael Green. They moved to Mountain View, California, where children Debbie and Bill were born. In 1963, Sue's family moved to Detroit where Sue actively supported civil rights while substitute teaching at public schools. The family returned to California in 1974 and settled in Orinda where Mike and Sue lived for 43 years.
In California Sue returned to her women's apparel career at Goldman's chain of women's dress shops. Starting in sales, Sue developed a legion of loyal customers and was quickly promoted into management where she directed 16 stores during her 25 year career.
In retirement Sue used her retail savvy and marketing skills rallying for Wardrobe for Opportunity, a non-profit organization helping over 25,000 low-income individuals acquire professional clothing and interview skills to become economically self-sufficient. "Fabulous and dedicated" Sue was honored for her role in WFO's growth as Volunteer of the Year. A constant champion of the underdog, Sue always took pleasure in helping others more than herself.
Daughter of Peter Simon, Mary (Madel) and William Kaplan, Sue is survived by adoring husband Mike, admiring children Debbie Wiesenthal (Steve) and Bill Green (Marnie Jubelirer), devoted grandsons Ethan & Jason Green and Zach & Miles Wiesenthal, and many loving cousins in Chicago. Sue prized her family and especially adored her loving grandsons. She loved baseball and was thrilled to watch her Chicago Cubs finally win the World Series.
Memorial donations may be made to Wardrobe for Opportunity, 570 14th Street, Suite 5, Oakland, CA 94612. Friends and Family are invited to attend a celebration of her life 3:00 pm on June 20 at 2 Wanda Way in Martinez. Email DebbieZumba@gmail.com for details.