Susan Halas Rathjen

Susan Violet Halas Rathjen, 78, of New Fairfield, CT, passed away with family by her side on July 15, 2025, at Regional Hospice in Danbury, after bravely and gracefully enduring a long illness. Throughout her journey, she faced each day with grit and remarkable grace.

Born on January 20, 1947, in Danbury, she was the daughter of the late Donald Halas and Violet (Corrigan) Halas.

She is survived by her husband, Neil Rathjen of New Fairfield; daughter, Stefanie Roig, and her husband, Keith Roig, of Princeton, NJ; daughter, Carolyn Rathjen, and her husband, Nicola Borri, of Rome, Italy; son, John Rathjen, and his wife, Iveta Pavelekova Rathjen, of Franklin Lakes, NJ; her brother, Donald Halas, and his wife, Darlene, of Milton, DE; six granddaughters, Julianna Kelly, Genevieve Kelly, Olivia Borri, Camilla Borri, Ivana Rathjen, and Bianka Rathjen; and her two step-granddaughters, Kayla Roig and Ilyssa Roig. She was predeceased by her beloved brother, John Halas, USMC.

Susan was a devoted daughter, sister, friend, wife, mother, and grandmother whose warmth and generosity touched everyone around her. After working at Southern New England Telephone, she dedicated herself fully to raising her family and creating a loving home. She found great joy in being a grandmother, always present with open arms and a kind heart. Susan loved cooking for family gatherings, where her meals brought people together and her laughter filled the room. She found happiness in quilting with her longtime friends, dancing to her favorite music, and surrounding herself with those she loved. Whether offering a helping hand or a listening ear, Susan had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and deeply cared for.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Cornell Memorial Home, 247 White Street, Danbury. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place immediately afterward at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Danbury.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Regional Hospice of Danbury.