Eulogizing a Legend: Hundreds Pay Tribute to Susan Petersen Lubow at Memorial Service

 By Veronica Cassidy Barry

KINGS POINT, N.Y., October 15, 2015 – Over 600 friends, family members, colleagues, alumni, and midshipmen paid tribute to the United States Merchant Marine Academy’s former Athletic Director, Susan Petersen Lubow, at a memorial service held at the Mariners' Memorial Chapel and simulcast at Ackerman Auditorium Tuesday.  Familiar faces from near and far came together to celebrate and honor the exceptional life and accomplishments of Petersen Lubow, who passed away earlier this month.

Former USMMA Superintendent, Vice Adm. (ret.) Joseph D. Stewart, USMS, shared many stories about her. “She was the most vibrant, most energetic, and best fighter I have ever known”, said Stewart. “Thousands of midshipmen got a better education because of Sue.” He went on to say, “She set the best example of Acta non Verba I have ever known.”

Thomas Hughes, USMMA Class of 1980, echoed Stewart’s words. “8,000 midshipmen went through the Academy while she was here, said Hughes. "I guarantee all 8,000 students remember Sue because she stood in their corner, she made their life better.”

The final speaker, USMMA Football Coach, Michael G. Toop, USMMA Class of 1977, recounted her historic legacy. “She was a great woman, mother, daughter, athlete, educator, coach, administrator, mentor and friend.” His sentiments were shared by those gathered in her honor, “we will miss you but you have taught us what we need to be successful in life and you will always be with us.”

To see the memorial service video, please click: Sue Petersen Lubow’s Memorial Service

To see Sue’s speech from the 2014 Athletics Hall of Fame induction, courtesy of MaritimeTV, please click: Sue Petersen Lubow 2014 Athletics Hall of Fame speech