Susan Zielke

"Her children arise and call her blessed." It is with heavy hearts that we share, Susann Zielke, has gone home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, June 23, 2023. Susann was 82 years young, born on Nov. 29, 1940, in Plymouth, Mich., to Reinholt and Louise Ruehr.

As a young girl, she remembered taking her younger brother, Billy, first to Sunday school and then a movie matinee. Susann spoke fondly of helping in her father's floral shop, Heide's. Her love of flowers, making arrangements, and gardening would be enjoyed throughout her life. Susann lost her own mother when she was 2 years old. By the time she was 11, she was responsible for shopping and making dinner. Her ability to make everything taste good was often praised by her husband, Klaus Zielke Sr.

Klaus Sr., and Susann met on a double-blind date. While courting, Klaus Sr., took Susann to youth events at his church. This is where Susann learned of Jesus' love for her and found forgiveness and redemption in Him. They were married on Jan. 17, 1959, and this year, celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary! In 1961, Klaus Sr. and Susann moved their family to St. Joseph. They had six children over the course of almost 18 years.

Susann and Klaus Sr. faithfully served in the church together. Susann sang in the choir, taught Sunday school and children's church, helped in Vacation Bible School, co-chaired Christmas plays, served in the nursery, worked in the church kitchen, taught Pioneer Girls and Awana. She was gifted with hospitality and often had missionaries over for dinner. To her grandchildren, she was known as Mimi, maker of good food, loving hugs and great advice. She helped care for and watch several of her grandchildren.

Susann enjoyed watching "Wheel of Fortune" and "Jeopardy." She was quick to solve a puzzle and give the right answer. She also enjoyed playing games like Skip-Bo and Phase Ten against her children and grandchildren, where she was often the winner. Susann had a heart for someone in need. Susann and Klaus Sr. often helped people struggling with payments and gave money to support missions at home and abroad. Susann enjoyed camping with family and friends. She also appreciated the many trips she and Klaus Sr. had taken with their adult children. They talked of seeing "God's creation."

Susann is survived by her children: Erika (Rev. Marlo) Fritzke, Klaus (Julie) Zielke Jr., Heidi (Jon) Bergman, Carla (Erich) Blematl, Greta Cunnington and Rachel (Ryan) Meachum; 24 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren (and she was overjoyed to hear that there are three more on the way); and brother, Otto Ruehr.

Susann was reunited in heaven with her husband, Klaus Sr., and grandson, Paul Bergman.

Susann was preceded in death by her parents: Louise and Reinholt; and brothers: Norman and William "Billie" Ruehr. Thank you for all the love you showed to us. We love you and will greatly miss you, but look forward to that day when we see you again in heaven!

A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m., on Saturday, July 8, at First Baptist Church, 902 Broad St., St. Joseph, with Pastor Marlo Fritzke officiating. Prior to the service, friends may visit with the family at 10 a.m. Those wishing to share a memory of Susann online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.