Susan Margaret Buchholz

February 9, 1943 – May 20, 2021

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Susan Margaret Buchholz passed away on Thursday May 20th at the age of 78. She was born in Roswell, New Mexico on February 9, 1943, first child of William and Katherine Tole. Now family and loved ones all mourn the loss of her convivial laugh, adventurous spirit and unique imagination. We promise to honor her memory with the warmth of well-told stories shared amongst friends.

Much of Susan’s life was invention for her own delight and that of her friends and family. Art was a prominent feature. She was a gifted sculptor whose works have graced the Moody Mansion in Galveston, Brays Bayou Trail in Houston and many personal collections including that of Lady Bird Johnson.

Susan was raised in El Paso, Texas where she met her first husband Kenneth Francis. She and Ken had a daughter Laura and a son Kevin who were both raised in Austin. During her time in Austin, Susan was active in the arts scene and an early member of Women & Their Work, a nonprofit visual and performing arts organization. Her studio was located first in an historic cotton gin and later a 1940s era gas station in Dripping Springs while her art was shown in several galleries including Eagles Nest and Clarksville Pottery. In the early 90s, Susan’s heart lead her west once more when she married Gordon Buchholz and moved to Schleicher County. Although ranching was a new endeavor, she took to it immediately and found her true home amongst the cattle and peaceful rhythms of this way of life. She was deeply passionate about wildlife and known for her gentle way and colorful conversations with every manner of flora and fauna.

In her golden years Susan found companionship and love in her relationship with singer, songwriter and Texas Poet Laureate Steven Fromholz. The two shared a common bond of creativity, wit and a profound appreciation for the beauty of Texas. Susan is preceded in death by her parents William and Katherine, husband Gordon, dearest Steven and too many pets to name. Susan is survived by her children, Laura Howerton and husband Steve; Kevin Francis and wife Kierra; her grandchildren Madeline, Emma, Cole and Ace, her siblings Frances Pagel, Kathie Bridger and Bill Tole as well as her beloved dog Wren.

“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.” - Rumi

There will be a service and celebration of life at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 28, 2021, at the Fort McKavett Cemetery with a reception to follow. Flowers are available for graveside delivery through Occasions Boutique and Bloom (325) 450-0007. To memorialize Susan and her love of art and pets donations can be made to New Beginnings Animal Rescue via PayPal (Donate@newbark.org) or to Women & Their Work.