Susan A. Willis

Susan Ann Willis, 77, of Spring Lake passed away on January 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to hundreds, Susan touched the lives of all who knew her with her warmth, kindness and unwavering love. The world lost a true angel, and those who knew her are forever blessed to have experienced her compassion and grace.

Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Susan was a long-time resident of Spring Lake, Michigan, where she built a legacy of kindness, caring and dedication to both her family and community. Susan was known for her remarkable ability to make others feel seen and heard. Whether she had known someone for years or met them just moments before, she treated everyone with the same warmth and genuine care. Her compassion knew no bounds – whether in her personal life or professional career, Susan always put the needs of others above her own. She had a gift for making everyone feel like family, offering a listening ear, a comforting word or a helping hand whenever needed.

Susan spent over 35 years as a registered nurse in the ICU department at North Ottawa Community Hospital, where her compassionate approach to nursing left an indelible mark on the lives of her patients and their families. In 2008, Susan was named Nurse of the Year in Michigan, a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional care. She saw each patient not just as someone to care for, but as an individual whose dignity and well-being mattered deeply to her. Many former patients and their families would later reach out to express their gratitude for Susan's care, often years after their time in the ICU. Her kindness and attentiveness during their most difficult moments never left them, and her impact on their lives was profound.

Her compassion extended beyond her work. Susan's friends and family knew her as a constant source of support, always ready with a comforting word or a thoughtful gesture. She believed in the power of kindness, often going out of her way to ensure those around her felt loved and cared for, no matter what the situation. Her selflessness and genuine concern for the well-being of others were felt by everyone she encountered, and she made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Susan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert G. Willis; her parents, Colin and Dorothy Campbell; and her brothers: Bill Campbell, Bob Campbell, Harry Campbell and Bruce Campbell. She is survived by her sons, Robert (Sheryl) Willis and Martin (Melissa) Willis; her grandchildren: Robert, Erica, Kaylinn and Keith; and her nephews: Bill (Vicki) Campbell, Dave (Colleen) Campbell, Chip (Darleen) Campbell, Darrell (Dawn) Campbell and Sean Campbell.

Her family was always her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Susan's legacy of compassion, love, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A service to honor Susan's life will be held in June. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven at heavencanwaitmi.org, in honor of her beloved cat, Trouble. Donations can be sent to: Heaven Can Wait: PO Box 23, Ferrysburg, MI 49409.

Susan's legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.