Susan Deixler’s name might not carry the same level of fame as her ex-husband, the legendary singer Barry Manilow, but her story is one of quiet strength, resilience, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life outside the public eye. Her journey reflects the power of personal growth, the importance of self-care, and the impact one individual can have in the world of holistic healing. This article takes a deep dive into Susan’s early life, her brief marriage to Barry Manilow, and her career in holistic health, shedding light on her meaningful contributions to wellness and community well-being.
Early Life and Education
Born in August 1944 in Brooklyn, New York, Susan Deixler grew up in a nurturing environment with her parents, Natasha and Al Deixler. Brooklyn, known for its rich cultural and social diversity, served as the perfect backdrop for Susan’s formative years. This vibrant borough exposed her to a variety of experiences, shaping her into a well-rounded individual with a strong sense of identity and ambition.
Susan attended Eastern District High School, where she was an active participant in various extracurricular activities. Her involvement in the school’s singing club, Chemistry Squad, and Bowling Club suggests she was both academically inclined and socially engaged. These early experiences reflect her multifaceted personality and the variety of interests she pursued while still in her teens. Her high school years were a time of personal growth, setting the stage for the next chapter of her life.
Meeting Barry Manilow
In the hallways of Eastern District High School, Susan Deixler’s path crossed with that of Barry Manilow, who at the time was still known by his birth name, Barry Pinkus. Barry was a year older than Susan and already displaying a knack for music that would later propel him to international stardom. Their romance began amidst the backdrop of school life, where they shared a passion for music and a deep connection that blossomed into a serious relationship.
As they spent time together during their high school years, Barry’s musical talents stood out. He was already beginning to chart a path toward a career in the entertainment industry, while Susan nurtured a growing interest in more personal pursuits. By the time Susan reached her senior year, their bond had grown inseparable, and their relationship became the defining focus of her teenage years.
Marriage to Barry Manilow
In 1964, at the tender age of 19, Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow married. Their wedding was a simple affair, reflecting their young ages and modest beginnings. At the time, Barry was still building his career, and Susan was navigating her own early adulthood. The marriage was full of youthful hope and dreams, but it soon faced pressures that would prove too much for the young couple.
As Barry’s music career began to gain traction, his schedule grew more demanding. The increasing time spent away from home and the professional commitments that came with his rising star began to place a significant strain on their relationship. The couple struggled to balance their personal life with the relentless demands of Barry’s career, which ultimately led to their separation after just one year of marriage.
Despite their short-lived union, Susan’s experience with Barry had a lasting impact on her life. While the marriage did not endure, it set the stage for her personal journey of self-discovery and growth.
Professional Life and Career
After her divorce from Barry Manilow, Susan Deixler chose to step away from the public eye. She turned her attention to a career path that was entirely her own, focusing on holistic healing and wellness. Her decision to pursue this field marked the beginning of a professional journey dedicated to helping others lead healthier and more balanced lives.
Career Development
Susan’s path toward holistic healing was not one she took lightly. She recognized the importance of personal growth and continued learning, eventually developing a strong foundation in the healing arts. Susan became a manager at a nursing home, where she could put her holistic skills to work. Her role involved applying alternative healing practices to help improve the lives of elderly residents, focusing on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Through her work in healthcare settings, Susan developed a reputation for being compassionate and deeply committed to the well-being of others. Her focus on holistic methods demonstrated a deep understanding of how mind, body, and spirit must work in harmony for true healing to occur. This approach set her apart as a forward-thinking practitioner, well ahead of her time in emphasizing the importance of overall wellness rather than just treating symptoms.
Impact and Contributions
Susan’s professional work in holistic healing and wellness has had a significant impact on the individuals she worked with. By incorporating practices that focused on balance and self-care, she was able to help many find peace and improve their quality of life. Her time in wellness centers and nursing homes provided a platform to make lasting changes in the lives of those in need, especially the elderly, who often feel neglected in traditional healthcare settings.
Her contributions in these areas highlight her dedication to service and care, which became the cornerstone of her professional identity. Though she remained largely out of the spotlight, Susan’s influence was felt in the communities where she worked, as her holistic approach to healing became a model for others in the field.
Life After Divorce
After her divorce from Barry Manilow, Susan Deixler embarked on a personal journey of self-discovery and professional growth. Choosing to live a private life away from the media’s gaze, Susan focused on her career and developing a deeper understanding of the holistic health field. She immersed herself in continued education and training, always striving to expand her knowledge and ability to help others.
Susan’s commitment to her own personal growth mirrored the way she approached her professional life. She consistently sought to enhance her understanding of wellness and healing, which helped her to better serve the individuals who depended on her care. This quiet dedication to her work and her own development allowed Susan to build a fulfilling life, even after the end of her marriage to one of the most famous entertainers in the world.
Public Statements and Personal Views
While Susan Deixler has largely remained out of the public eye, she has occasionally made public statements that shed light on her personal beliefs and values. One notable moment came when Barry Manilow publicly came out as gay in 2017, revealing that he had been in a long-term relationship with his partner, Garry Kief. Susan expressed her support and happiness for Barry, acknowledging his courage in being true to himself. Her response to Barry’s coming out reflected the enduring respect and friendship between the former spouses, showing that they had both moved forward with positivity and mutual understanding.
Personal Beliefs and Philosophy
Susan Deixler’s personal philosophy is rooted in the values of resilience, wellness, and holistic health. Her work in healthcare and wellness centers demonstrated her commitment to these principles, emphasizing that true healing goes beyond physical symptoms and must include emotional and mental well-being. Her dedication to service and her focus on self-care allowed her to not only help others but to maintain a healthy balance in her own life.
Her belief in the mind-body connection, as well as the importance of nurturing oneself emotionally, mentally, and physically, has been a guiding force in both her personal and professional life. Susan’s approach to wellness reflects a deep understanding of the complexity of human health and the importance of holistic care in achieving a balanced life.
Legacy and Influence
Susan Deixler’s legacy extends far beyond her brief marriage to Barry Manilow. Her life story is one of resilience and quiet strength, demonstrating that challenges and personal setbacks can lead to profound opportunities for growth and service. Through her work in holistic healing, Susan has touched the lives of many, and her approach to wellness has inspired countless individuals to adopt a more balanced and mindful way of living.
Though she has maintained a low profile, Susan’s contributions to the world of holistic health cannot be understated. Her work continues to impact those who have been fortunate enough to receive her care, and her legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and the quiet power of healing.
Conclusion
Susan Deixler’s life story is one of quiet strength, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others. From her early days in Brooklyn to her brief marriage to Barry Manilow and her career in holistic healing, Susan has lived a life full of purpose and meaning. While she may not seek the limelight, her influence has been profound in the lives of those she has touched.
Her journey serves as a reminder that the path to personal fulfillment often comes from embracing change, focusing on growth, and dedicating oneself to the service of others. Susan’s story is a powerful testament to the power of resilience and the impact of living a life aligned with one’s values and purpose.
FAQs
Who is Susan Deixler?
Susan Deixler is best known for being the first wife of singer-songwriter Barry Manilow. After their brief marriage, she carved out a career in holistic healing and became known for her work in nursing homes and wellness centers.
How did Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow meet?
Susan and Barry met in high school at Eastern District High School in Brooklyn, New York. They developed a relationship that eventually led to their marriage.
What led to Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow’s divorce?
The couple’s marriage ended due to the demands of Barry’s rising music career, which placed a strain on their relationship. Despite their separation, they have remained respectful of one another.
What has Susan Deixler done professionally after her divorce from Barry Manilow?
Susan focused on a career in holistic healing, where she worked in nursing homes and wellness centers, dedicating herself to the care of others.
Has Susan Deixler remarried after her divorce?
There is no public information to suggest that Susan has remarried after her divorce from Barry Manilow.
How did Susan Deixler react to Barry Manilow coming out as gay?
Susan expressed support for Barry when he publicly came out in 2017, showing respect for his courage and acknowledging their enduring friendship.
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