Susan Ellen Zimmer

Susan Ellen Zimmer, age 78, of Lake Orion, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Susan was born on September 11, 1947, at Women's Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. She was the daughter of Fred Elias Sr. and Claire Elias, and the beloved sister of Fred Elias Jr. and Candace Elias. She spent her early childhood in Hazel Park, attending Ford School, before the family moved to Franklin in 1958. She later graduated from Groves High School. Susan attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. It was during this period that she met the love of her life, Joseph Zimmer. They were married on April 26, 1969, and were happily married for 56 years.
Susan devoted her life to her family. She and Joe raised three daughters-Jody (Jeremy) Clemens, Jennifer (Matt) McQueen, and Jamie (Chris) Zimmer-and together they later welcomed six cherished grandchildren: Josephine, Jordan, Julia, Maya, Parker, and Pierson. Throughout her adult life, Susan worked closely alongside Joe in their family businesses, offering her steady presence, unwavering support, and gentle strength. She remained dedicated in this role up until she became ill.
Susan loved Sunday boat rides, traveling in the motorhome, and shopping. She loved Italian food, (especially pizza), morning coffee, and sitting lakeside on the deck listening to the birds, her favorite being the red cardinal. She loved reading, watching game shows, (and of course, watching football and car racing with her husband, Joe).
She took care of everyone else first. Susan was the most selfless woman-caring for the people she loved with her whole heart, giving without ever expecting anything in return, loving without condition.
Susan will be profoundly missed by her husband, daughters, grandchildren, and all those lives she has touched.
There will be a luncheon at Opa's restaurant in Lake Orion immediately following the funeral on Friday from 12:30 - 3:00 at 600 S. Lapeer Rd