Owner of C-Street store dies at 61

The owner of a bee-themed boutique on Commercial Street has died.

Soozeezbeez Honey Beetique announced Susi Caregnato's passing in a Facebook post this week. Caregnato's obituary at GreenlawnFuneralHome.com indicates the 61-year-old died Aug. 13 "after a brave battle with cancer."

"She was one of a kind and we loved her like crazy," the Facebook post reads. "The Bee Hive will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, for sure. Watch this page for updates on Friday and Saturday."

A longtime vendor at area farmers markets, Caregnato in 2021 launched her Soozeezbeez brick-and-mortar store at 200 E. Commercial St., selling raw honey and over 20 infused flavors, as well as candles, lotions and soaps made with honey and beeswax, and bee-themed decor and jewelry, according to past reporting. The company's Facebook page states the store moved last year to 320 E. Commercial St.

Caregnato's obituary calls her "a radiant presence in Springfield, MO, and the historic C-Street."

"Susi’s love for beekeeping and her unwavering faith in God were reflected in her every action, bringing light and joy to everyone she encountered. Her kindness and generosity created a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing her," the obituary reads.

A celebration of life is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Aug. 30 at Greenlawn Funeral Home North.