Susan Marie Forand

Susan Marie (Kniskern) Forand, 56, of Upton, formerly of Millbury, passed away on Monday, August 13, 2018, at The Ledges in Hopedale after a courageous battle with a rare form of cancer, Clear Cell Sarcoma.

Susan is survived by her husband, Ronald Forand; two brothers, Robert Kniskern, Jr. of Holden, and Leonard Kniskern in North Carolina; four sisters, Brenda Salois of Millbury, Patricia “Trish” Perry of Sutton, twins Lisa Kniskern of Charlton and Sherry Villatico of Worcester; many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by nephews, Leonard Kniskern Jr and Robert Joseph Kniskern Sr. She was born in Worcester, daughter of the late, Robert F. and Elizabeth “Betty” (Hicks) Kniskern, Sr.  She grew up in Millbury and graduated from Millbury High School. She was very proud of the time and work she did in the Greenhouse during her high school years.

Susan was warm hearted and had a beautiful infectious smile that lit up a room, to know her was to love her. Sue was a very conscientious person, in fact we often joked with her about her constantly saying, “I just want to make sure I do the right things”. She enjoyed BINGO, flea markets, needle pointing, puzzles, and being surrounded by family.  She enjoyed Dunkin Donuts where she could spend hours just talking and laughing with friends.  She was a huge fan of Elvis and was delighted that she was able to visit Graceland twice, Dollywood, and the Grand Ole Opry. She enjoyed visiting & most holidays with her sister Trish, brother-in-law Mike, her nephew, Tyler and niece, Emily.

Susan was proud that she was able to live independently at Milhaus Apartments in Upton, and attend the Liberty Day Health Program.  For a short time, she was living at The Ledges in Hopedale, where she received wonderful care and love from the staff. The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the entire staff at the Ledges for the level of compassion and care that Sue received doing her short stay there.

Calling Hours for Susan will be on Monday, August 20, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St, Worcester.  Her Funeral will be on Tuesday, August 21 at 10 a.m. in Saint Brigid Church, 59 Main Street, Millbury.  Interment with her parents at Hope Cemetery will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Susan’s Legacy by making a donation to: The Ledges Workshop, 55 Adin St. Hopedale, MA 01747.