Susan L. Suehs, age 55, of Manawa, passed away on Sunday, February 19th, 2023, in Appleton, WI.
Susan Lenore Vandenbrook was born in Aurora, Illinois on October 9, 1967 to her parents Bill and Carol Vandenbrook, joining her older sister, Ann Vandenbrook.
Sue lived with her family in Colorado through her childhood and teen years, where she developed a lifelong passion for horses. Later she attended college in Wisconsin at UW-River Falls for Animal Science.
After college, Sue met Roy Suehs of Manawa and in July of 1992 they got married. She lived with him on their farm east of Manawa for the rest of her life. Shortly after they married, she became a bus driver for the local school district and for some years served as a substitute teacher.
Her big smile, friendly “hello”, and calling kids by name had a huge impact on many of the children of the school district. She was especially active with the art department, where she was their “designated driver” for art competitions and activities, helping and supporting them in any way she could.
In addition to her school career, Sue was active with several horse communities, including 4-H. She was particularly active in working with driving horses and breeding American Cream Drafts in her last years.
After a brief battle with cancer, Sue spent the last few days of her life in hospice care, surrounded by family and friends, and died peacefully Sunday morning with her husband at her side.
Sue is preceded in death by her father: Bill; sister: Ann; as well as many other relatives.
She is survived by her beloved husband: Roy; mother: Carol; their “adopted” daughter: Chanel Volpel; and her chosen “sisters”. She is further survived by her brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, as well as other relatives and friends.
The memorial service for Sue will be held on Saturday, February 25th, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Manawa, with Rev. Nathan Reichle officiating. A gathering of family and friends will be held at the church on Friday, February 24, from 4-7 pm, and also on Saturday, from 9:30-10:45 am.
In lieu of flowers, Sue would appreciate donations in her honor to MerEquus Equine Rescue and Sanctuary. www.merequusequine.org Friends may visit www.dahlkefh.com to share memories and condolences with Sue’s family. Cline-Hanson-Dahlke Funeral & Cremation Care of Manawa is serving the family.