Ventura County has lost one of its most loved educators with the passing of counselor and university administrator, Susan Izumo.

At only 58, Izumo succumbed to a 15- month battle with renal cancer on Sunday, Oct. 9.

She worked as a trusted and valued counselor at Moorpark College and as the director of admissions at California Lutheran University.

Candace Peyton, of the Moorpark College transfer center, who in addition to working with Izumo had a 15-year friendship with her, was with her through the battle against cancer.

“She went the extra mile for the students,” said Peyton. “But she was also a mentor to the other counselors. Everybody in the counseling office has been impacted by her in some way.”

Peyton paused a moment, considering how best to describe her beloved friend. “She was a light. And now that she’s gone there will always be a void.”

Peyton also remarked that Izumo retained her sense of humor through all her trials.

“Susan made us laugh, no matter what was happening to her.” Another pause before Peyton was able to continue. “She will be missed.”

Izumo is survived by her husband of 23 years, Gary; her two children, Kelsey and Mathew; her mother Betty Brown, a residence of Thousand Oaks; her father and his wife, Bill and Dee Brown; and her mother-in-law, Koto Izumo.

Her family has established a memorial fund in her memory. Donations can be sent to: Susan Izumo Memorial Fund, 1806 Smokey Ridge Ave., Westlake Village, CA 91362.

In addition to the Memorial fund started by Izumo’s family, the counseling department has established an annual scholarship for a student in her memory. Contact Margaret Ramos at x 1617 by calling Moorpark College for more information on how to donate.