On Oct. 9, Susan C. Staruk, 64, of Key West, Fla. and the Vineyard, ended a courageous, 15-month battle with cancer at her home in Vineyard Haven with her twin sisters and her cat, Miss T, by her side.

Susan was born on June 25, 1945, in Worcester. She will be remembered by her family and friends both on and off the Island as a free-spirited individual who lived her life seeking the truth and always trying to make sense of it all. She had a deep love and respect for all of God’s creations and enjoyed simplicity, showing us how little one really needs to get along in life. Susan also taught us that if you do have something you had better take care of it. In caring for her many cats and dogs over the years, she taught us the importance of walking the dog daily.

Susan was predeceased by her father, Edward F. Staruk, in 1991. She is survived by her mother, Helen Staruk of Vineyard Haven, and by her twin sisters, Joyce Gillies of Vineyard Haven, and Diane Phillips of Tennessee. She also leaves behind her loving godchild, Calla Staruk Gillies, and three loving nephews, Ed Staruk Gillies, Cody Phillips and Tony Phillips, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial service will take place in the spring and will be announced at a later date. The family wishes to thank the Vineyard Nursing Association, Hospice, the Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Society, and Leslie’s Drug Store for the support, compassion and guidance so generously given to Susan and her family.