We are sad to announce the passing of Luella (Sue) Carsten of Gardnerville, Nevada on Monday May 15, 2023, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s, surrounded by her loving family. Sue was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted wife of 56 years. Just one week before her passing, Sue celebrated her 80th birthday.
Born in 1943 she was raised in the San Fernando Valley with her five siblings. In her young adult life, she was a quality control inspector for the aerospace industry while going to school at night to learn computer programing.
Sue met her husband-to-be, Gary, on a trip to Lake Tahoe. They were married in Las Vegas on March 4, 1967, and made Lake Tahoe their home for the next 18 years, eventually relocating to Carson Valley in 1985.
Sue dedicated over four decades of her life to the gaming industry. With expertise and professionalism, she served as a Pit Boss at the Carson Nugget, ensuring the smooth operation of various casino games. Her knowledge, fairness, and attention to detail made her a highly respected and trusted figure in the industry.
Sue was an avid golfer and on most warm days you could find her on the golf course enjoying the fresh air and company of fellow golf enthusiasts. She was a long- time member of the “Carson Valley Women’s Club” where she formed lasting friendships and shared countless memories with her fellow club members. Throughout her golfing journey, Sue accomplished something truly remarkable – she scored not just one, but two ‘holes in one” during her golden days. Her skill and dedication to the sport were an inspiration to others, and she took pride in her achievements.
Beyond her love for golf, Sue had a warm and caring nature. She touched the lives of many through her kindness, generosity, and the genuine connections she forged. Her vibrant spirit and enthusiasm for life left an indelible mark on all that had the privilege of knowing her.
Sue is survived by her husband Gary, her two children Glen Carsten and Christine Phenix, her granddaughters Alyssa Marshall (Andrew) and Bailey Carsten, and her great grandchildren Tyler Spriggs, Austin Marshall, and Myles Marshall. She was proceeded in death by her parents, four brothers and one sister. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to share in her life’s journey.
The family would like to give special thanks to Arbors Memory Care in Sparks for their love and consideration in the exceptional care they provided for our most special loved one. We would also like to give special thanks to Gentiva Hospice of Reno. Both teams went above and beyond, offering comfort, guidance, and care to Sue and her family during a challenging time. The caregivers who cared for Sue have become family and we greatly appreciate their dedication to helping others.
We would also like to thank the Alzheimer’s Association for their invaluable support and resources. We kindly request that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Contributions made in Sue’s memory will not only honor her life but also support ongoing efforts to advance research, provide assistance to caregivers, and ultimately find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
Services to honor Sue’s life will be held at a later date. May she rest in peace, forever remembered for her love of family and the joy she brought to those around her. She will forever be in our hearts and missed dearly.