Suzanne "Susana" Beatriz Birman

Suzanne "Susana" Beatriz Birman, 78, a longtime resident of Placentia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

Suzanne was born on July 14, 1946, in Parque Patricios, Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Manuel and Celeste (Braz) Gago. After studying at the university, Suzanne and her beloved husband, Marcelo, dedicated their early years to advocating against political injustice. She remained a passionate defender of human rights throughout her life.

Suzanne’s life was defined by her deep care for others. Though she worked hard to provide for her family—from her early days at Sweetlife to her retirement from Orange County Social Services in 2014—her true calling was nurturing those around her. Her warmth and generosity touched countless lives, and she built lasting friendships with people from around the world, who became extended family.

A lifelong learner, Suzanne always with a book in her hand, found joy in cooking, reading, and traveling. She was known for her impressive owl & miniature shoe collections and, most of all, for cherishing time spent with her family.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Marcelo Birman; her loving children, Debbie Birman (Juan Cendejas), Pablo (Erin) Birman, Julieta (Saul) Zavalza, and Micaela Birman; and her six adoring grandchildren: Ariana Birman Devine, Francesca and Katarina Birman, and Noah, Liam, and Kash Zavalza. She is also survived by her brothers, Manuel (Marga) Gago and Nestor Gago, along with many nieces and nephews.

Suzanne was preceded in death by her parents and her cherished grandson, Ethan Birman.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Kim and the oncology department at St. Jude Hospital; her compassionate caregivers Jackie, Betzy, Bianca, and Esmeralda from Amada & Always Best Care; and the dedicated Chemo nurses Koko, Ileana & Thuy from St Jude, whose support brought great comfort. A special thank you to her eldest daughter, Debbie, who remained faithfully by her side throughout her journey.

Please join us in a celebration of Suzanne’s life on Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, at SOL Banquet Center

located at 3490 E. Orangethorpe Ave., Anaheim CA 92807 from 2pm-5pm.

To RSVP, Please contact us at 949-842-7872

To honor her memory, the family kindly asks that guests wear lavender/purple, Suzanne’s favorite color.

Suzanne’s legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.