David Suson bowled four perfect 300 games in his life. The vast majority of people never bowl even one perfect game. But then again, most people aren’t David Suson.
Those perfect games are symbolic of how David lived his life, illustrated by his long, respected career in the insurance industry, his love or Torah study and synagogue leadership, his wide circle of friends, his exemplary middot or personal character, and, most of all, his beautiful devotion to his wife Connie, their children and grandchildren.
Let us break this down:
David built up his own insurance agency which he started when he first married Connie 42 years ago. Through his steadfastness, strong work ethic and commitment to customer service, he amassed a loyal customer base which enabled him to provide for his family and allowed him to pursue the other endeavors he loved.
Endeavors such as serving as president of BMH-BJ during a time of transition for the large congregation, where he served on the board and committees and led family and youth services for many years. In fact, for a period of time, David seemed to be the rabbinic, program and lay leadership of BMH-BJ all wrapped in one. Everyone knows the challenges typically involved in being a synagogue president. David was invariably unruffled, candid and considerate.
Jewish study was a passion of David Suson. He started out as a rabbinical student before going into the insurance industry. He was a dedicated and proud participant in Daf Yomi, a page of Talmud study each and every day, usually very early in the morning, for the past 14 years (!).
Indeed, Judaism played a major role in his life, and he imparted that love to his beloved children, Steven, who became a rabbi; and Jonathan and Adrienne. They were fortunate to grow up in a household with David Suson presiding over the Shabbat table, the epic, meaningful and fun seders, and the soul-warming Sukkot celebrations, also powered by their mother, David’s soulmate Connie. In recent years, David and Connie’s grandchildren got to experience their love of Judaism and family; and that, to be certain, was David’s greatest joy.
David Suson’s passing was shocking in its speed, a vivid reminder that we tread this earth by the grace of G-d. As if mirrorlike, David Suson’s grace, gentleness and integrity are unforgettable.
Humble, friendly, fun-loving, sincere and a dapper dresser, David Suson was a class act. We know he had a lot more love to share and Jewish wisdom to impart, and at least one more perfect 300 bowling game in him. But we are grateful for the years that he had and the manifold gifts that he bestowed.
Copyright © 2019 by the Intermountain Jewish News
