Susan Sullivan
February 17, 1944 - September 14, 2024
Obituary
MADISON – Susan Priscilla Sullivan, age 80, passed away on September 14, 2024, at Charter Memory Care in Verona, WI. Susan was born on February 17, 1944, in Watertown, WI, the daughter of Oscar and Ruby (Behnke) Mann.
Susan was a dedicated teacher for 39 years. She began in Sun Prairie, WI then on to Marshall, WI where she would find her joy teaching for 39 years at Marshall Early Learning Center. Susan was awarded the Herb Kohl Teaching Fellowship Award and was nominated for Wisconsin Teacher of the Year. Following retirement, she remained active with her friends in M.A.R.E.S. for many years.
Susan found immense comfort in her faith throughout her life. She was confirmed at St. Marks in Watertown, WI. After marrying Michael Sullivan on June 17, 1967, she became a member of Bethany United Methodist Church for many years. She eventually returned to her childhood Lutheran Faith. Susan became an active member at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, assisting with the Clothes Closet, participating in Prime Timers and the Orchard Ridge Elementary Mentoring program.
Susan also volunteered for many years at the Pleasant Company in Middleton, WI, helping with their American Girls doll sale every year.
Susan loved traveling with her husband and daughter and would share of her adventures with family and friends. She was an artist with wonderful skills in drawing and love for photography of nature and her family.
Susan was constantly surrounded by her beloved pets, including her many cats and was a wonderful grandparent to her many grand-dogs, cats, sheep and horses.
Susan is survived by her husband of 57 years, Michael of Madison, WI; daughter, Melissa Anne Sullivan of Madison, WI; siblings, Steven Mann and Constance Pike; and nieces/nephews, Lori Pike, Jody Thompson, Edward Mann, Theodore Mann, Shari (Don) Lee, Dobby (Chuck) Englebert, Jean (Mike) Riedel, and Annette (John) Duente. She is preceded in death by her siblings, Thomas Mann, Marlyn (June)Mann, and William (Jen) Mann; mother-in-law, Lois Sullivan; and sister-in-law, Patty Sullivan.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 1:00PM at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 220 Enterprise Drive, Verona. A visitation will be held from 11:00AM until time of service on Wednesday at the funeral home. Final resting place at Greenwood Cemetery in Platteville.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations may be made to the Dane County Humane Society. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Verona Chapel
220 Enterprise Drive
608-845-6625
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Memories
AG
ANDREA GOMEZ
Other • 8 months ago
Mrs.Sullivan was my kindergarten teacher in the mid 70's and was still teaching when I came back to teach as well. She was the kindest person who handled everything with a smile and giggle. I learned so much from her every time we talked at school. Please know how much she meant to everyone. She was legendary!!my deepest sympathies to you and your family. Andrea (Hegge) Gomez
HF
Heidi Finkler
Other • 7 months ago
Mrs Sullivan taught me how to weave with yarn and make purses! She was such a special teacher. Love and prayers to all of her family.
JK
Joyce Knapton
Other • 7 months ago
Mrs. Sullivan was the kindergarten teacher for both my children. She was the kindest, most gentle person and I knew that they would thrive with her. I so appreciated her; may she rest peacefully now. My sincere sympathy to her family.
LP
Lori Pike
Other • 7 months ago
Aunt Sue, a wonderful person who will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. My condolences to Melissa and Uncle Mike. 🩷 Lori
BK
Barb Kohler
Other • 7 months ago
Being the parent of 3 adult children who all loved her so much, even though they were not necessarily in her class. That didn't matter to to this wonderful, inspiring teacher. We are so blessed that she touched so many hearts in Marshall, and especially ours!
TM
Traci Murphy
Other • 7 months ago
I'm sorry to hear of Sue's passing. I taught Kindergarten with Sue at Marshall and learned so much from her. I always think of her on bring your best to work day. She always brought us some. Always so generous and caring. She will be missed.