Susan D. (Kinney) Riordan passed away on July 3, 2023. The oldest of five children, Susan was born on October 12, 1947 to William and Mary (MacRae) Kinney in Atchison, Kansas. Her passion for creating visual art spanned her entire life and almost all media–fiber, watercolors, pastels, pen and ink, jewelry, photography, glass blowing, collage, puppetry and more. She often sold her pieces at the Salina River Festival and many other festivals across the midwest. In addition to visual art, Susan regularly attended the Iowa Writers Conference and was awarded her Masters in Poetry from Goddard College, culminating in the publication of her book of poetry 'I Wanted a Poem About Kansas.' She was a voracious reader who loved a good used bookstore and instilled both those loves in her children.
Susan was married to Bill Riordan for over 50 years and worked as the art teacher for St. Mary’s Grade school, as well as in the Children’s Department of the Salina Public Library.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Kathy and Billie Jean, her beloved sister-in-law, Terry, and her grandson, Kurtis.
She is survived by her sister, Randi, her brother, Philip, her nephews, and nieces, and by her four children, James, Mary, Ann, and Jennifer.
Donations to honor Susan’s creativity may be made to the Salina Public Library and the Building Creatively Campaign at the Salina Art Center. Alternatively, enroll your children in dance, music, film drama or drawing classes.
Susan was cremated and services will be private at the convenience of family.