Susan Stephenson was born August 2, 1944 to Joseph and Dorothy Kogut. She is survived by her husband Bill, of 52 ½ years, sister Linda Kogut, daughter Kristin (John) and son Billy (Morgan) and three grandchildren she loved dearly, Andrew and Joseph Stephenson and Bridget Susan Martin. Susan was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. She graduated from Eastern High School and went on to earn a degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University. She did post graduate work at Oakland University, followed by the University of Kansas.


Bill and Susan were married August 17, 1968 in the chapel at Michigan State and began their adventure together. Following Bill's career all over the country, the family traveled from MIchigan, to Memphis, Tennessee, to Kansas City to Lancaster, PA, to Indianapolis, IN before finally making their way back to Michigan, making anywhere a home, as long as they were together. Susan had a knack for looking on the bright side of any situation and always finding the positive . . .whether it was embracing a new city with open arms or joining a newcomer's group.


After retirement, Bill and Susan made Gun Lake their home, where Susan had spent her summer youth water skiing, swimming, working at the Chuckwagon and dancing at The Note. Her children and grandchildren grew up spending time at the lake every summer. Here, they made their last home, welcoming friends and family to the beautiful lake. Susan was active in The General Federation of Women's Club, where she served as club Historian, Chairwoman of the Gun Lake Lending Library, participated in the Adopt-a-Highway program, donated backpacks and supplies for local schools and was honored receiving the Woman of Achievement Award. She was also active in Gun Lake Community Church where she served as an usher and volunteered monthly in Samaritan's Kitchen, serving free dinners to the community.


As a devoted wife and mother, Susan provided unconditional love and steadfast support to her family. Although small, her family is tight knit and truly enjoy each other's company. Her family grieves at the thought of being without her loving presence. Always available day or night, Susan provided a sounding board and comfort to her children long after they were grown and living in different cities. To her husband, she brought support, humor and a fun companion. Neighbors and friends knew her to be kind and charitable, but her family often mused at how she kept her humor and silliness hidden. Always with a witty comment, funny observation and gentle teasing, she kept her family laughing. She will be missed more than words can describe, but her loving family will continue laughing in her memory, retelling her funny stories, making her delicious recipes and reminding her grandchildren what an amazing woman their grandmother was, quiet, but strong . . . smart and funny, but most of all, the most brave, loving and supportive person we have ever known.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Spectrum Hospice