Susan Jane Eklund

Susan Eklund, 81, of Kerrville passed from this life on Thursday, June 18, 2020 in Kerrville, TX where she had lived for the past twelve years.

Susan was born June 2, 1939 in San Antonio, TX to parents, Theodore and Jane (Kelley) Eklund.  She was was the eldest daughter and as she grew up she became a leader in everything she did.  She was a professor at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, for thirty five years where she received the highest honors. Her academic colleagues, personal friends and family alike highly valued her many contributions to their lives.

Susan completed her Ph. D in Psychology at George Peabody College of Vanderbilt University.  She earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Texas, a M.S. in Psychology from Trinity University and received a Ph.D. from Peabody College in Nashville, TN.  She went on to complete post doctoral training in Gerontology with studies at Duke University Medical Center, University of Southern California and Ohio State University.

She received all the awards and honors given, including the Pinnell Award from Indiana University for distinguished service. Other awards and recognition include The Distinguished Teaching and Mentoring award at IU’s graduate school, Charter Fellow, Association for Gerontology in higher education for contributions to gerontology education.  Dr. Eklund continued to receive many other awards of recognition for her contributions and service in aging, volunteer work, exceptional leadership and service.

Susan was Associate Dean of Facilities and then Professor Emoritus at IU.  Along the way she actively participated in some eight professional organizations as well as completing dozens of published works and developed and taught numerous human development and psychology courses as well as directing dissertations.  Further she participated in university service works including IU Graduate School, University Promotions Committee, IU Center for Aging and Office for Women’s Affairs.  Her professional resume reflects many other contributions, awards and accomplishments.  She was truly a rare and highly valued university professional.

Since retiring to the Texas Hill County, Dr. Eklund actively volunteered in the Meals on Wheels program, KISD’s  grief program for youth Bridging the Gap, and did volunteer work at Peterson Regional Medical Center.

Susan is survived by a sister; Sandra Mangum of San Antonio, a niece and nephew of Austin,TX, plus two special sister-friends; Beverly Scott of Georgetown, TX and Myrtle Scott who preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Dietert Center, 451 Guadalupe Street, Kerrville, TX 78028. 

Graveside Services will be held at 10AM on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at Garden of Memories, 3250 Fredericksburg Rd., Kerrville, TX 78028 with Pastor Paul Harris of Hunt’s United Methodist Church. Guests may come to the service and remain in their cars, participating in the service via a PA system.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Kerrville Funeral Home (830) 895-5111.