Suzanne "Suzie" Marie McClain

Suzanne "Suzie" Marie McClain, 59, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away on June 11, 2024, at her home in Carmel. She was born on November 12, 1964, in Beech Grove, Indiana to Roy Julius Mosolf and Betty Marie Mosolf. 

Suzie is survived by her son, Andrew McClain (Aija Putelis); partner, Joe Marcum; and sister, Peggy. She was preceded in death by her father, Roy Julius Mosolf; mother, Betty Marie Mosolf; and brother, Junior.

Suzanne was her legal name; however, her family and friends knew her as Suzie. When asked her name, she would say Suzie and emphasize that it is spelled with a "ZIE". She was always polite in correcting those who misspelled her first name, but she also expected that you remember it if you wanted her attention. 

When asked about her family, Suzie would say her greatest accomplishment and the "love of her life" was her son, Andrew (Drew) McClain. If anyone wanted to challenge this, they would soon realize the wrath of "momma bear" and she had the talons to boot. She supported and participated with Drew in Cub Scouts, Carmel Dad's Club baseball, basketball, and football. It has been reported that she had a favorite nickname for Drew that she would yell to encourage him (anyone interested in knowing that will have to ask Drew). 

Suzie loved the ocean, especially the beach in Buxton, N.C. on Cape Hatteras. This was her absolute favorite vacation destination. She was not a fan of flying so her preference was to drive there. She often said she felt at peace there, and her final wish is to have her ashes scattered there. 

Suzie liked to plant flowers and a vegetable garden. She was especially fond of tomatoes. She looked forward to weekly visits to the seasonal Carmel Farmer's Market and a vendor referred to her as his "local tomato expert". When a customer would inquire about the quality of his tomatoes, he would point to Suzie and say "ask her, she knows". 

Suzie had a talent for crafting. She enjoyed beading, jewelry making, and other projects she saw on television or YouTube. She was a frequent customer of Dollar Tree and Hobby Lobby. She would often gift her projects when that person showed appreciation of her work. She really enjoyed the process of creating and sharing. She also enjoyed annual visits to the Christmas Gift & Hobby Show, Flower and Patio Show, and the State Fair. 

One of Suzie's most misunderstood talents was her method of organization. The casual observer would say that she was disorganized and bet she could not find anything. Those who knew Suzie well, would take that bet and win. As long as you did not try to "improve" her system or move objects without her approval or knowledge, she had a terrific memory and ability to find anything. It was referred to as "Suzie's System" and she managed it well. 

Suzie started her career at Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance on June 16, 1986, at the Home Office, located on East Washington Street in Indianapolis. Unfortunately, at the time of her passing she was just five days shy of realizing thirty-eight years of service. She was loyal to the "Bureau", as many employees would refer to the company. She took great pride in being part of the corporate family and enjoyed her work. She started in the Membership Department and forged many lasting friendships. 

Suzie was an ambitious, energetic person who was willing to take on new challenges. She was receptive to change. However, she was not afraid to state her opinion when asked, especially if she felt the change was counterproductive. Change would create new opportunities. She ultimately transferred to the Claims Division and moved to the East Washington Training and Service Center as an Administrative Assistant. Suzie was always willing to lend a helping hand, even if it was outside the scope of her responsibilities. She became an integral member of the Material Damage Team and the Fleet Operation. She participated in her share of "Cat Team" operations that responded to storm damage. 

Her involvement in the Fleet Operation led her to seek and earn the professional designation of CAFM (Certified Automotive Fleet Manager) through the NAFA (National Association of Fleet Administrators). The designation requires starting and passing eight course areas within three years. This is an industry designation with few candidates actually completing it within the parameters. She became the Fleet Administrator, and later Fleet Specialist. 

Just some of Suzie's traits include intelligence, self-reliance, integrity, compassion, dedication, and a great sense of humor with a very distinctive laugh. She was an outstanding mother, friend, partner, employee, and overall great person. 

Suzie, we all love and miss you! Rest now within the embrace of the ocean you so loved! 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Hamilton County Humane Society.