Suzanne Jo Thompson

Suzanne Jo Thompson, known affectionately as Sue to her friends and family, passed away on September 8, 2025, at the age of 74 in Lafayette, Colorado. A cancer survivor, Sue had many health complications throughout her life, but her journey was always one of perseverance and determination. Born on November 20, 1950, in Rapid City, South Dakota, Sue's passion for science and education was evident from an early age, guiding her to a fulfilling career and a life rich with learning and discovery. Her family moved several times growing up, making their way east through South Dakota, to Rochester, MN, where Sue graduated from John Marshall High School.

After high school, Sue attended DePauw University, where she was a National Merit Scholar and double-majored in Chemistry and Math, laying the foundation for what would become a distinguished career. Upon graduation, she joined 3M as a chemist, contributing to the development of innovative solutions that left a mark on the scientific community, including several patents. Through work, Sue found the love of her life, Ken, and they tied the knot on August 23rd, 1975, at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Edina, Minnesota.

Sue and Ken initially settled in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. There, they started their family and had two loving children, Katie and Chris. Fulfilling their dreams of a lake house, the family moved to Stillwater, Minnesota. On Big Carnelian Lake, they created many wonderful memories of time spent on the water, around a fire, or at the kitchen table. Sue could often be seen wearing red and black as a fan of the Stillwater Ponies - a tradition that would continue as she proudly wore the emblem of any endeavor she or her family was associated with. Sue enthusiastically supported her children, ensuring they were enriched and as involved as she was. Sue was a gymnastics judge and softball coach, fully engaging in her kids' passions, and continuing to support organizations long after her children graduated from them.

Sue's 'failure' from early retirement (as her family lovingly referred to it), combined with her passion for knowledge and desire to inspire future generations, led her to transition into a second career in education as a science and math teacher. Sue's dedication to her students was unwavering and she was known for her ability to make complex concepts accessible and exciting. Always willing to stay late and help, or arrive early to prep for an event/fundraiser, Sue threw herself into leaving her mark on the world, but never saw it as anything other than what you should do. When Sue yet again 'retired' from full-time teaching, she wasn't idle long. Through substitute teaching, many of them long-term positions, Sue continued to leave her mark as someone always willing to support the goal of bettering future generations.

Sue's zest for life extended far beyond her professional pursuits. She was an avid traveler, often embarking on adventures with her family. These excursions were not just trips but cherished opportunities for creating lifelong memories. Sue was most happy when her family was together; it didn't matter the location. At home in Thornton, Colorado, Sue was reluctant to settle into 'retirement' in an active-adult community. She stated multiple times she wouldn't be "forced to join all the neighborhood things", but then once they moved into their home in Heritage Todd Creek, Sue proceeded to do exactly that and loved it! She was an active participant in bettering her community through her time spent on the Neighborhood Advisory Council and as a Home-Owner's Association Board member. Sue's love for music found its outlet in her neighborhood choir, where her voice would soar in harmony with her fellow singers. Anytime a good song was on, be it at a local outdoor concert or just riding in the car, Sue would always be found tapping her knee and singing along. Additionally, her artistic talents were evident in her paintings, which was a skill she practiced later in life and was quite proud of. Sue's other passions included reading, playing golf, watching NASCAR, and perhaps most importantly, talking smack to her fantasy sports league opponents!

To have known Sue was to have known a person who lived with intention, who embraced each day with a smile, and who sought to leave the world a little brighter than she found it. Her spirit, a brilliant fusion of intelligence, warmth, and creativity, will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved her. Her life's story encourages us all to explore, to educate, and to love deeply. Sue may have left this earthly realm, but her legacy is immortal, her impact immeasurable, and her memory forever cherished.

Sue is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Ken Thompson; children, Katie Padderud of Thornton, Colorado, and Chris Thompson and partner Kurt Van Raden of Thornton, Colorado; siblings and their cherished families, Dr. John Steubs and wife Julie of Bloomington, Minnesota, Sherry House of Lubbock, Texas, and Ron Steubs and wife Leslie of Edina, Minnesota. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Arthur and Barbara Steubs.

Because Sue always wanted the spotlight to shine on others, per her wishes, at this time no formal services are planned. A private ceremony will be held at a later time.

Her battle with cancer led her to support others through the American Cancer Society. Her patriotism and desire to fiercely protect those she loved led her to support the Wounded Warrior Project. Her own struggles with health, their mission to support families experiencing sickness, and of course - a love of collecting pop-tops for recycling and donating, led her to support The Ronald McDonald House (even so far as saving and bringing pop-tops back from travel domestically AND abroad)! Her love of all animals, especially her and her children's pets, to whom she was lovingly referred to as a Grand Pawrent, led her to support the Animal Humane Society.

In support of her life's work and charitable spirit, the family asks that you consider a monetary donation or volunteering your time to one of Sue's four favorite causes in lieu of flowers.