Memorial

Susan Torbett, 73, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on August 20th, 2026. She was born in Kentucky and moved to Cedar Rapids as a young woman, following her only sibling Particia who had started a family in Cedar Rapids. Susan was a caring and generous person who lived independently caring for family and chosen family alike. 

She worked for decades for US Nameplate and had a close friendship with the owners Richard Novetzke, his wife Sally and their children. She was a caregiver for Sally in her later years and an honorary member of the family. They’ll remember her for her thoroughness as well as her loyalty and her heart of gold.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia Swain, niece, Denice Lindsey and nephew, Eric Swain. Susan also leaves her two dogs Ellie and Mocha who she rescued and loved dearly. She was a devoted volunteer and benefactor of the Allsop Family Humane Society, formerly the Cedar Valley Humane Society. She was a valued member of the community through her presence and commitment to the mission. 

Her love for animals and her pets guided her to friendships in the community. She made friends with the volunteers she worked with every Sunday including Deborah Gertsen and Anna Strahan as well as others she met there like Kendy Hogan. She was close with her dog groomer, Sherry Ward. She was loved by the team at the veterinarian Frey Pet Hospital, who cared for her rescued animals and their many medical needs. 

Susan was a skilled seamstress. She made costumes for the Cedar Rapids Theatre. She also made beds for the animal shelter and clothes for her pets. She loved organizing and managing projects, often working on landscape and hardscape projects with her friend Steve Jordan who she’s known for years.

She will be remembered for her deep affection for animals, and passionate activism for humane treatment of animals in Iowa. This shows through volunteer work and generous contributions to organizations that rescue and care for vulnerable animals. In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor Susan’s legacy by contributing to the Allsop Family Humane Society or Critter Crusaders. 

A Celebration of Life will be held for Susan on Saturday, September 26th from 1-4pm at the Allsop Family Humane Society, 7411 Mt. Vernon Rd. SE. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the love, joy, and kindness that Susan graced us with in her life.