Obituary: Suzan D'Aniello, 74, Of Hamden

Suzan J. Harrison D’Aniello, 74, of Hamden, CT, wife of Guy S. D’Aniello, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2024 after a long, valiant battle with lung cancer.

Suzan was born June 12, 1950, one of five children of Raymond and Bernice (Ryalls) Harrison. Suzan graduated from Hamden High School in 1968 and attended two years of college. Suzan and Guy met during the “Summer of Love” (1967), were married for 54 years, and raised two children in Hamden.

In 1981, Suzan and Guy opened D’Aniello’s Amity Bicycle Shop in Woodbridge, CT which continues to be operated today by their son, Kurt. Sue contributed to the cycling community through her work as a United States Cycling Federation representative, promoting many years of successful State Championship races. In 1995, Sue was appointed as the Cycling Commissioner for the Special Olympic World Games held in New Haven. Due to her tireless efforts, the cycling venue was honored as the best of the Games. In addition, Sue served as PTA President at Church Street School and was honored as one of Hamden’s Most Notable Citizens. Upon retiring from the cycling world, Sue enjoyed being a business manager at Congregation Mishkan Israel Nursery School in Hamden where she found much joy working with colleagues, students, and families.

Sue was an extremely caring individual who loved helping young people and opened her home and heart to anyone in need. She was always willing to invest her time and energy supporting those around her, whether planning a party, lending an ear, or offering her home as a reprieve. In addition, Sue was an avid gardener and champion of recycling and the Earth Day cause; she cherished the natural world and was happiest spending time by her koi pond with her beloved dog, Peanut.

In addition to her husband, Guy, Sue leaves behind daughter Kala Zawalich and husband Matthew of Cheshire; son Kurt D’Aniello and partner Annalisa Paltauf of Hamden; grandchildren Daniel and Kira Zawalich of Cheshire; sister Beth Harrison and partner Wes Beeman of Branford; several beloved nieces and nephews and their families; and lastly, countless individuals who loved her and called her “Big Mama”. Sue was predeceased by brothers Raymond Harrison of Texas and George Harrison of Iowa and sister Fran Ellesio of Guilford, CT.

Sue's wishes were to celebrate her life at a party with all her friends and family.

Please join us at:

Knight's of Columbus Lodge

2630 Whitney Ave

Hamden, CT 06518

August 4th, 2024

Visitation starting at 3pm

Service and celebration to follow

At Sue’s request, in lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to ERRACE @

https://www.pledgereg.com/5108/suedaniello

Checks made to Fidelity Gift Fund - ERRACE