Susan M. Fila Paap 52, of Greenport, died suddenly December 23, 2008 at Columbia Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family and close friends.   Born in Bennington, VT and a graduate of Chatham Central High School, she was the daughter of the late John F. Fila and Marion L. Fila whom survives in Chatham.   For years, Susan worked in health care. Before falling ill, she was actively pursuing a career in nursing, with a specialization in home dialysis. She received high honors for academic excellence. Susan was involved in a variety of causes that touched many people lives. She was an active member of the Lupus Foundation of America and the American Pain Foundation.  She was successful in helping to pass recent legislation regulating pain management.  Susan was a staunch advocate for the mentally ill and frequently gave lectures and conducted group meetings around Columbia County on their behalf.   She was the sister of Dr. John C. Fila of Santa Monica, CA, G. Frank Fila of Chester, NJ, Nancy M. Fila of Chatham and New York City, and Sandra J. Fila of Canaan. She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews, Amy Bryant, Geoffrey and Katherine Fila, Adam and Sarah Hanlon, and Nicole and Gregory Daddazio and her fiancé, Augie Crocco of Stephentown.   Family will receive friends Saturday January 10 at 9:30am at the French, Gifford, Preiter and Blasl funeral home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham. Mass of Christina Burial will be celebrated at 11am at St. James Church, Rt. 66 and Rt. 203 in Chatham   I n lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Susan may be made to the Lupus Foundation of America or the American Pain Foundation. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.frenchblasl.com.   The family would like to thank the dedicated staff in the ER and Intensive Care Unit at Columbia Memorial Hospital.   Susan was a warm, sensitive, intelligent and loving person who was loved by many. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.