Susan Birner Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home - Tomah on Oct. 1, 2025.
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Susan "Sue" C. Birner, 74, of New Lisbon, and formally of Warrens, died unexpectedly on Thursday, August 20, 2025, at home.
On December 10, 1950, she was born to Elwood Roberts and Mary-Eileen Carter in Prineville, Oregon, where she was raised alongside her 7 brothers and 3 sisters. After tragically losing her parents at the age of 10, Sue entered foster care and soon relocated to Hillsboro, Wisconsin. It was there that she joined the Cox family, who swiftly welcomed her in and became a safe space for her. Sue was a member of the Hillsboro High School's graduating class of 1970.
Sue began her working career at Rayovac in Wonewoc and later worked at Band Box in Tomah. She also spent a number of years working as a sorter and cranberry marsh tour guide for the Olson Brothers Cranberry Company out of Warrens. On July 24, 1992, Sue was united in marriage to the love of her life, Robert Birner, at the Baptist Church in Warrens. The couple soon relocated to the area and would spend the next 32 years living there, before moving to New Lisbon in 2023.
As a longtime member of Grace Bible Church in Warrens, and most recently, a member of the Assembly of God Church in Necedah, Sue had a deep sense of faith and found comfort in her Lord and Savior.
In life, Sue was her happiest self when surrounded by her family. She enjoyed riding alongside her husband while long haul trucking and was able to visit almost every state. It was during these trips that she was able to reconnect with her father and cousins, who she stayed in touch with over the years. Later in life, Sue could often be found spending her days on or around Castle Rock Lake, where she loved to pontoon and ride her 3-wheeled motorized bike down to the dock, all with Robert by her side.
Above all else, Sue loved being a grandma and played a large role in raising her grandchildren. She always made herself available to babysit, which involved much spoiling and plenty of golf cart rides. Sue always went above and beyond for those in her life and always made sure everyone knew how truly loved they were. She will be remembered for being loving, understanding, caring, supportive, and simply wonderful. Sue will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved her.
Sue is survived by her husband of 33 years, Robert Birner; son, Justin Stanley, his children, Jacob and Jentry Stanley; son, Josh (Jane) Stanley, their children, Janella "Bean" and Jacreid Stanley; daughter, Jodi Stanley, her children, Cody, Ridge, and Logan Revels; son, James Stanley, Jr., his child, Tyler Stanley; step-daughter, Sheri (Jim) Swafford, their children, Robert Birner, Samantha and Ryan Perry; step-daughter, Jennifer Birner, her children, Roger and Jordan Birner; step-daughter, Nikki (Jeff) Watkins, their children, Aubrey and Jake Watkins; She is further survived by her grandchildren, Brandon and Al Stanley; numerous great-grandchildren; several brothers and sisters; and many nieces, nephews, other family members, and close friends.
Sue is preceded in death by her parents, Elwood and Mary-Eileen; son, Jarrod Stanley; several brothers and sisters; parents-in-law, Ruth and Adam Birner; and other family members.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, 1:00 PM at the Assembly of God Church, 402 N. Main Street, Necedah. Pastor James Christensen will officiate. Burial will be held at the Warren Mills Cemetery at a future date. Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation at the church, 12:00 PM Noon until the time of service. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com. The Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
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