Obituary

Susana Liliana Lazzara unexpectedly passed away July 5, 2023 at her home in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Her passing has created shock waves in the hearts of family and friends that loved her, springing both sadness and joyful memories of how she blessed the lives of those who knew her. Her effect on others will never be forgotten; her example will always merit emulation. Her life is briefly outlined here, yet words are incredibly inadequate to convey the fulness that was Susana. Knowing her meant knowing a rare personality that combined dynamic charisma, thoughtfulness, charity, love, faith, service, intelligence, kindness, and friendship. She will always be greatly missed.

Susana, endearingly known as Lily by close family and friends, was born and raised in Rosario, Argentina, where she lived with her parents Zulma and Raul and her brother Oscar. She was drawn to school and learning at a very young age, and throughout her life the pursuit of knowledge remained a driving motivation for her. At the age of 20, Lily was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and a few years later she met her future-husband Sergio while both were enjoying countless social activities with mutual church friends. In 1978, Lily and Sergio were married civilly and afterwards married in the church by Sergio's father, a lay-leader in the local congregation of the Church. Almost two years later they were sealed for time and all eternity in the São Paulo, Brazil temple.

Lily's first son David was born in 1980, and within five months Lily and Sergio moved their little family from Rosario, Argentina to southern California. They left family, friends, and a familiar lifestyle to follow a strong impression that their family would be greatly blessed by relocating to the United States. Their initial feelings proved prophetic. However, Lily greatly missed her childhood home where a part of her heart was left behind.

Lily's second son Gary was born in 1982. With two young boys in tow, Lily put her own career as a chemical engineer on hold in order to employ her best faculties in raising her children. Without any relatives nearby and only a few friends in her social circle, Lily partnered with her husband Sergio to overcome many obstacles with the aim of blessing their two children as much as they could. Lily emphasized education, culture, manners, and faith during countless lessons in the home. She shared her love for world travel, cuisine, sports, and classic rock with her sons whenever she could. Whether as a Cub Scout leader, school volunteer, or family tour-guide on a variety of road-trips and cruises, Lily was determined to never let her children miss out on the bountiful opportunities available to them. She made sure that each of her sons would develop a strong desire to strive for the highest ideals. Lily truly believed that no success outside of the home compensated for failure in the home.

Lily reignited her love for learning by enrolling in math and science classes at Chaffey College. She excelled there and earned associates degrees as a result. Her hard work led to a job in the Math Success Center, where her love for teaching grew exponentially as she dedicated untold amounts of time to help students from every walk of life. Her approach was not centered on merely solving mathematics problems; she instilled in students a desire to learn, to plan for their futures, and to embrace difficult subject matter with creative approaches. Coworkers and students alike were forever changed by her influence over almost 30 years.

Lily lived to see both of her sons marry and begin families of their own. As a first-time grandmother, Lily was transformed each time her new granddaughter Natalia entered the room. Her heart expanded even more than before when holding her. Lily greatly anticipated the arrival of her second granddaughter, who had yet to arrive when Lily passed. Nevertheless, they surely crossed paths in the vast world of spirits, where Lily could instill her legacy in the upcoming newborn and others of her posterity yet unborn.

Lily is survived by her husband Sergio, sons David and Gary, daughters-in-law Carolyn and Ere, and granddaughter Natalia. Her love, energy, and protective care are impressed in their hearts as they now anticipate a glorious reunion in the days ahead. May God be with her, and each of her family members and friends until they all meet again.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Forest Lawn, Covina Hills, CA.