Susan B (Johnson) Chakravarti

Life of Susan B. Chakravarti

            Susan Bertha (Johnson) Chakravarti passed away on April 9th 2016 after living a full, rich life. She was Born November 14th, 1936, to Richard E Johnson and Sarah (Vernhardson) Johnson. The Vernhardsons were Icelandic immigrants for whom the street in Gig Harbor was named. Raised in the sleepy town of Gig Harbor, Susan gained most of her lifelong friends at Peninsula High School (Valedictorian, class of 1954), some of whom still get together once a month for lunch.

            Pursuing her degree in Home Economics at Washington State University in 1954, Susan met Diptiman Chakravarti (earning his PHD in Food Science and Technology, later becoming a member of the WSU Board of Regents) while dancing. She was the lady in white who stole his heart. They were married in 1955, and, with her parents’ blessing, traveled to India to meet Diptiman’s family and live on a tea estate.

            Their “Desi and Lucy” romance crossed many boundaries—this multiracial, educated, adventurous couple faced the world head on, traveling extensively in India and worldwide. Susan’s classic Asian flair for decorating, her cooking skills, and gentle, caring manner complemented her husband’s character, and they were gracious hosts to many a scholar, dignitary, and their numerous friends from around the globe.

            The couple had two children; son, Devdas and daughter, Ava. Susan continued her education, studying Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Indian languages and Eastern religion, becoming a graduate of the University of Washington's Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies. She took great interest in her Scottish and Icelandic ancestry, and was also a (WSU) Master Gardener, accountant, and partner in her husband’s businesses.

            Susan is survived by her husband, children, 6 grandchildren, and brother, Richard Johnson, Jr.

            A Celebration of Life for Susan will occur in the near future and she would have loved for her friends and family to donate to the Humane Society in her honor.

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