United States Eventing Association

In Memoriam: Susan Lynn (Hawkinson) Canole

Susan Lynn Canole, wife of Ray and mother to William and Emily, left us too soon. Susan was an active member of the dressage and eventing community and spent time volunteering for multiple organizations. Her passion for horses and her desire to help the community found the perfect outlet when the Richland Park Horse Trials organizers accepted her offer to help with PR. She barraged local media for coverage and arranged many in-person interviews with international and local competitors. She loved highlighting and educating the West Michigan community on the sport that was dear to her heart. It was her goal to increase spectators, which she undoubtedly did.

Susan enjoyed visiting with spectators around the grounds. Often you would hear commentary that they had never been to a horse trial and they were awed by the talent they saw! She would always flash her beautiful smile, knowing that it was the culmination of her job well done.

She also looked forward to the “best weekend all year” in Lexington each spring. She was able to attend the Land Rover (Rolex) Three-Day Event multiple times and was always making friends along the way. Fortunately, in 2019 she brought her daughter Emily for the big event, a very special memory for both of them.

Susan showed an incredible amount of strength and resolve over the last two years. Her “spectacular steed” Mack and the friends she made through the horse community were very important to her and held a very special place in her heart. Susan would love you all to hug your horse, hug a friend, share a glass of wine, and be grateful for every moment big or little in your lives. Rest well our sweet friend.