Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
Grace Susan Kinnear “Sue,” 66, died peacefully at her daughter’s home in Palmer, Alaska, on June 15, 2016, after a courageous battle with cancer. Sue was born to Thomas Henry Gingell and Priscilla Alden Tibbals on March 4, 1950, at Walter Reed Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. The Gingell family moved frequently during Sue’s youth due to her father’s military career. The Gingell family spent several fondly remembered years in Japan before settling in the Santa Maria, California area. As an adult Sue was a long-time Alaskan who spent many years in Sitka where she volunteered as Little League President, Seminary teacher, Den mother, and was a professional bookkeeper for several local businesses and non-profits. Sue was also an animal lover and Stevie Nicks fan. Her generosity towards others will always be remembered as evidenced by the numerous nieces, nephews and family friends that grew up, in part, in her home. In the months leading up to her passing she was surrounded by family and loved ones. She will be remembered for her fiery spirit, caring nature and unwavering support and love for her children and grandchildren. Sue is survived by her mother, Priscilla Alden Tibbals (“Pat Gingell”); siblings, Thomas Edward Gingell and Patricia Jo Gingell of California; children, Barbara Lynn Self and Robert Edward Kinnear; son-in-law, Ronald Austin Self; daughter-in-law, Johanna Memory Painter; grandchildren, Neve, Zack, Kaleb, Erika, Ben, Caleb, Asa and Cooper; great-grandchildren, Landen, Melody, Jason and Isaac.