Susan Marino

Susan Marie (Rothermel) Marino walked into the arms of her Savior on October 26, 2024 at the age of 78 after a devastating battle with Alzheimer's disease. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Susan will always be remembered for her sense of humor, kindness, and generosity.
Born on June 21, 1946 in Americus, Georgia as the first child of Dr. William and Esther (Greenly) Rothermel, Susan grew up with her parents and younger brother Bill, as well as a loving extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Susan loved learning, and in 1964 she graduated from Glenwood High School in Canton, Ohio. She furthered her education by graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace College in 1968, and from Northeastern University in 1972 with a Masters in Education. She began her career teaching in Chicago. In 1974 Susan relocated to Richland Center, WI, where she formed many lifelong friendships and was an integral part of the community for years serving various community roles, including on City Council, County Board, Police & Fire Commission and Chamber of Commerce.
Susan married Paul Marino in August 1970. They were married for 20 years before divorcing in 1990. The marriage produced two sons, John and Kenton. After her divorce, Susan had a fulfilling career in 4-H, and spent many years with the Vernon County extension office before retiring in 2004. In retirement, Susan fulfilled a childhood dream of learning to play the drums. Her love of teaching continued and she opened The Etiquette Center in Richland Center, teaching others etiquette and hosting tea parties.
In 2009, Susan moved to Rochester, MN to be closer to her grandchildren. Being Grandma was the best role she ever held. Susan loved spending time with each of her grandchildren and enjoyed coming up with new ways to spoil them all the time. She spent hours finding fun activities for the kids, attending every event possible, and smothering them with kisses. Grandma's house was always full of toys and exciting things to do. She loved having as many of the kids over for sleepovers whenever she could.
Susan's greatest joy was found in Jesus. She was an active member of Park Street Christian Church in Richland Center, and at Hope Summit Christian Church in Rochester. She hosted women's retreats, offered encouragement to others, and strived to live in His light. Her presence will be missed by all who knew her.
Susan is survived by her sons John (Billie) and Kenton (Kendra), grandchildren Angelo, Isaac, Josh, Natalie, and Marcel Marino, brother and sister-in-law Drs. William and Kim Rothermel, nephews Pete (Sarah), Aaron, Luke (Heather), and Adam (Kyleen) Rothermel, 12 great nieces and nephews, and an abundance of friends who became family over the years. She is preceded in death by her parents.
A celebration of life will be held on December 21, 2024 at Park Street Christian Church in Richland Center.
The family wishes to thank all of the wonderful staff at Shorewood Senior Campus, Pine Have Care Center, and Moments Hospice for the incredible love and care provided to Susan over the last four years. Each of you made a tremendous difference in her life and the lives of her family.