Susan Jean Fontana, 56, formerly of East Hartford, Connecticut, died after a brief illness on Jan. 5 at the Mission Hospital, Asheville, North Carolina.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, on March 19, 1962, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Virginia (Gulli) Fontana.

Susan was a successful executive professional loved by her co-workers and family. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed time with her husband, John Clark, and friends. Susan loved to travel and had the pleasure of living coast to coast, pursuing a career that she loved. Susan loved living near the water and recently relocated with her husband to Charleston, South Carolina.

In addition to her husband, Susan is survived by brother Eric J. Fontana and his wife, Heidi, of Hopkinton, brother Stephen Wooldridge and his wife, Romayne, of Langhorne, Pennsylvania, nieces Lindsey and Julia Fontana, nephew Adam Fontana and many cousins. Susan’s husband wishes to give special thanks to her loving cousin, Dawn Sutti, who was especially supportive and helpful while Susan was ill. Susan also had many long-term friends whom she loved and with whom she shared very close and special friendships.

Susan loved animals and really looked forward to getting a new puppy once she moved to Charleston. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the ASPCA or a local pet rescue shelter.

A memorial service was held Jan. 26 at the DellaVecchia Funeral Home in Southington, Connecticut. For online condolences, visit dellavecchiafh.com.