Sue Chew, a name that has long been synonymous with service, advocacy, and compassion, left a profound mark on the state of Idaho and the lives of its citizens before her passing in 2024 after a brave and determined fight against cancer. As the longest-serving Democrat in the Idaho House of Representatives, Sue devoted herself wholeheartedly to the betterment of her community, making an impact that reached far beyond the walls of the legislature.
Her advocacy work touched many facets of Idaho life, with a particular emphasis on education, healthcare, and the environment—issues that resonated deeply with her and many others throughout the state. Sue was known for her tireless efforts to create a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable future for Idahoans, and her life’s work remains a testament to her unwavering commitment to these causes.
The Idaho community mourns her loss deeply, but in true Sue Chew fashion, her legacy continues through the policies she championed and the lives she touched. Her family, friends, colleagues, and the people she worked so hard to serve will remember her not only for her significant contributions but for the warmth, kindness, and passion that she radiated wherever she went.
Born with a deep love for her state and its people, Sue’s journey to public service began early in her life. Growing up, she always had a passion for helping others, and it was no surprise when she chose a career in politics. After earning a degree and working in several community-focused roles, Sue took the bold step of running for public office. She was elected to the Idaho House of Representatives and quickly became known for her focus on building bridges and finding common ground among people with differing views.
As a representative, Sue’s dedication to education was one of the driving forces behind much of her work. She understood that education was the key to a better future for Idaho’s youth and worked tirelessly to improve the state’s education system. She was a fierce advocate for increased funding for schools, better resources for teachers, and support for students facing economic and social challenges. Whether she was pushing for increased state funding for K-12 education or advocating for programs that supported higher education, Sue knew that investing in the next generation was an investment in the state’s long-term success.
Sue also recognized that healthcare was one of the most pressing issues facing many Idahoans. As someone who understood the struggles of accessing affordable and quality healthcare, she fought for policies that would make healthcare more accessible to rural communities and underserved populations. Her efforts to bring attention to the needs of those who couldn’t afford or access the healthcare they deserved were instrumental in shaping policies that continue to benefit Idaho residents today.
The environment was another cause close to Sue’s heart. Having grown up in the natural beauty of Idaho, she was a staunch defender of the state’s vast wilderness areas, rivers, and wildlife. Sue worked to pass legislation that protected Idaho’s natural resources, and she was a strong advocate for clean air and water policies. She knew that the preservation of Idaho’s environment was crucial not only for future generations but for the state’s economy, as industries such as agriculture, tourism, and outdoor recreation were so deeply tied to its natural landscape.
As a legislator, Sue was often seen as a problem solver, someone who could rise above partisan divisions and focus on finding solutions that worked for the people of Idaho. Her ability to bring people together, even when there were strong disagreements, was one of her greatest strengths. Her colleagues, regardless of their political affiliation, respected her for her integrity, her hard work, and her ability to stay focused on what mattered most: the well-being of the people she represented.
Sue’s battle with cancer was long and difficult, but she faced it with the same strength and grace that defined her career. Even as she dealt with her illness, she remained committed to her work, always keeping her constituents and her family at the forefront of her mind. She continued to advocate for the causes she believed in, even as her health began to decline. Her unwavering commitment to public service, even in the face of personal hardship, was a testament to her character and her dedication to the people of Idaho.
In honor of Sue’s legacy, a memorial tree will be planted at Discovery Park, as per her request for a simple tribute to her life’s work. The tree will serve as a living reminder of the positive impact Sue made during her years of service. It will stand in a park that she loved, in a community that she helped shape, and it will be a symbol of the growth and progress she worked so hard to achieve. Her contributions to education, healthcare, the environment, and public service will live on in the policies she passed, the organizations she supported, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched.
The memorial tree will be a gathering place for all those who wish to celebrate Sue’s life and honor her memory. It will stand as a lasting tribute to her dedication, kindness, and unwavering belief in the power of public service. Friends, family, and colleagues who knew Sue will gather to remember her not only for her professional accomplishments but for the person she was: a loving mother, a devoted wife, a tireless advocate, and a friend who was always ready to lend a helping hand.
As the community continues to mourn the loss of Sue Chew, it is clear that her legacy will endure. Her impact on Idaho will be felt for years to come, and her dedication to making the state a better place for all will not be forgotten. The tree planted in her memory will continue to grow, just as her contributions to Idaho continue to shape the future of the state she loved.
Sue’s passing marks the end of an era for Idaho politics, but it also marks the beginning of a new chapter. The work she started will continue through the individuals and organizations she inspired, and her legacy of service and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. While she may no longer be with us, Sue Chew’s impact on Idaho and its people will remain an enduring testament to the power of dedication, service, and love. GoFundMe
