Bark River, MI
Susan K. McDonnell, age 67, of Bark River, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at her home on Monday, October 2, 2023.
Sue was born on October 25, 1955 in Grand Rapids, MI, the daughter of Edward R. And Joan (Herman) LeMaire. She attended and graduated from Northview High School class of 1973. Sue furthered her education at Central Michigan University where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education.
Sue was united in marriage to Joseph McDonnell on May 27, 1978. Together they raised their two children.
Sue was the Aquatics Coordinator at the YMCA in Escanaba for 25 years. She also was a member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church.
Sue loved everything that the Great Lakes had to offer. She enjoyed their beaches and many other water activities with family and friends. Sue especially loved the people in her life and touched many with her kindness, compassion and integrity. She will be deeply missed by all.
In addition to her loving husband Joe, Sue is survived by:
Son: Ryan (Abby) McDonnell of Freeland, MI
Daughter: Erin (Nate) Lind of Boulder, CO
Mother: Joan Herman of Rockford, MI
Brother: Ron (Terri) LeMaire of Rockford, MI
Grandchild: Drew McDonnell
And several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.
Sue is preceded in death by: Father, Edward LeMaire and Brother, Terry LeMaire
Family will receive friends on Friday, October 13, 2023 from 10:00 AM until Noon at the St. Anne Catholic Church in Escanaba. A memorial mass will follow visiting hours at Noon with Rev. Fr. Fran DeGroot and Deacon Terry Saunders officiating. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to the Delta County Cancer Alliance, 3430 Ludington Street, Escanaba, MI, 49829. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the McDonnell family.
Kenny and Debbie Lind - Ozark, MO
Sue is the mother of our daughter-in-law, Erin. We are so sorry. Our prayers are with the family. Hugs to you, Erin. ❤️
Brooke Buckley - Gladstone, MI
Sue was one of my swimming coaches when I was a Delta Dolphin through the YMCA. She was such a positive role model and supporter to everyone she came in contact with. She always looked on the bright side of every situation with a genuine smile on her face. May God heal your heavy hearts and free Sue from the pain of cancer that she courageously fought.
Tim Treadway - Cheboygan, MI
I worked with Joe for many years, and still miss working with him to this day. He is one of the nicest people that I have ever known, and the times that Sue accompanied him to functions I found her to have the same kind and likeable personality as Joe. I am so sorry for your loss, and my thoughts and prayers go out to Joe, Ryan, Erin, and the entire circle of family and friends who are hurting now. Always remember that to live on in the hearts that we leave behind is to truly never die.
Mary Gauthier - Escanaba , MI
I am so sorry about her passing. I worked with Sue for over 30 years at our local ymca.
She taught my children and many others how to swim. My sympathy to Joe and her family.
She will truly be missed. Always had a smile
and a friendly presence. A great lady all around.
Stebers - Lake Linden, Mi
Kim, sending our deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. Mike and I have such fond memories hanging with you and Sue, many laughs and kindness all around.
Sheila Robertson - White Pine, MI
Our most sincere condolences to you, Joe as we just saw on Facebook that Sue had passed away! We are so very sorry ! May you be comforted by all the wonderful memories you shared and remain with you! She was a very kind person with a gentle Spirit! Haven’t seen either of you in quite a few years, but do have a few memories of time spent with the two of you back in the “Greyhound” days! Fun fun times! Love and Blessings to you Joe! Take care…Sheila and Marty❣️❣️
Teresa Lutey-Galley - Westfield, In
A good friend back in White Pine. My sincere condolences to Joe and her family.
ALAN H MARBLE - Frankfort, MI
Joe, I am so sorry for your loss. I see Lorna occasionally here in Frankfort, and this summer she told me Sue was seriously ill. I just heard today of her passing. I hope you are healthy and have family nearby. Ken lives near us here and he is a constant source of joy and is my go-to hunting and fishing partner. Please accept my condolences.
Anne Josson - Marcy L'Etoile, France, Fr
Sue, you will be greatly missed. It was great to have worked with you on several stallion infertility problems. You have expired me a lot all along my career and your ideas were always very much appreciated! RIP
Carl & Sara Domitrovich - Tucson, AZ
Dear Joe: We are so sorry for your loss. Sue was such a kind and loving person. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Carl & Sara Domitrovich