August (Gus) Suszko passed away peacefully in Vista, CA on July 18, 2026 after a brief hospitalization. August Suszko was born in Marion Heights, Pennsylvania on August 13, 1932 to the late John and Lena Suszko, and graduated from Kulpmont High School. Gus was the youngest of 13 children. Gus joined the United States Navy in 1950. As a Hospital Corpsman Third Class he served with a Marine Infantry Company of the 1 st Marine Division and entered the Korean War where he earned two Purple Hearts. In addition, Gus was awarded the Silver Star by the President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower, for his bravery during combat in 1953. When Gus returned home from the war he enrolled as an Engineering student at Indiana Technical College. He graduated with a Civil Engineering degree, and was hired by the California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) where he worked for 37 years.

Gus met his future wife, Frances on a blind date, while in Indiana. They married in Stockton, CA on April 12, 1958, and settled in Northern California where they had two children, August and Charles. A few years after marrying they relocated to Southern California where they had three additional children, Kristina, Katrina and Kathy.

His work at Caltrans took him from Structural Design in San Franciso where he worked on the Oakland Bay Bridge, to Resident Engineer in San Diego where he administered the contract for what became the San Diego Trolley. In the last years of his career he was a Supervising Engineer coordinating construction projects throughout Southern California. After his retirement the continued teaching and working on the State’s Dispute Review Board.

When he wasn’t working Gus coached his daughter’s softball team and spent time with his family. They took family vacations every summer to see family in various parts of the country, camp, visit national parks and go fishing. When their kids were grown Fran and Gus began travelling more extensively, visiting family throughout the country, going to Hawaii and going on several cruises, including to the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska and Australia. Gus was a Toastmaster for several years giving humorous speeches all over southern California and winning several trophies. He also enjoyed woodworking and he made large and small items, including indoor and outdoor furniture.

Gus spent the last several years of his life taking care of his best friend, his wife Fran, as she battled Alzheimers disease. He was devoted to taking care of her until she passed on March 18, 2026. Recently his favorite pastimes were putting together puzzles and playing with his dog, Kaylee.

He is survived by his children Chuck (Pam), Kristina (Al), Katrina (Steve) and Kathy; and his grandchildren Kyle, Jeanie, Lailah and Marco. He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Frances; his son August; and his siblings Mary, Michael, Anthony, Joseph, John, Sallie, Stephen, Lena, George, Anna, Edward and Peter.

The family is grateful to the wonderful caregivers who spent so much time with Mom and Dad during the last few years. We cannot express how much your kindness has meant.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to Alzheimer’s San Diego or your favorite charity.

Funeral service will be held at 11am, Monday, August 3, 2026 at Poway-Bernardo Mortuary.  A committal service with military honors will follow at 1:15pm at Miramar National Cemetery.