It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sue Ann Thomson Wilterink who peacefully passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the age of 67 surrounded by family.
Sue is lovingly survived by her devoted sons, Evan Wilterink and Andrew (Caitlin) Wilterink; granddaughter, Quinn Wilterink; stepchildren, Mandy Wolters and Mike Wilterink; parents, Donald and June Dilly; sister, Carol (Edward) Webb; brothers, Richard and Robert Thomson; many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Sue had many devoted and loving friends who enriched her life immeasurably.
Born on February 26, 1959, in Grand Rapids Michigan, Sue lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion to family and friends. She touched countless lives through her generosity, warmth, sense of humor, faith, and acts of kindness. She made the world a better place as a beloved educator for Lowell Area Schools.
Sue found great joy in family gatherings, helping others, and being the best Mimi to Quinn. Whether she was folding and selling Pink Arrow shirts, offering words of encouragement, or simply sharing a smile, Sue made people feel valued and loved. Above all else, Sue cherished family — as a mom, grandmother, sister, and friend, her love and guidance will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
Family will greet friends and relatives from 4–8PM on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home, 305 N. Hudson Lowell, Michigan, 49331. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11AM on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 4351 Parnell Ave. NE, Ada, Michigan 49301, with visitation one hour prior. Fr. Tom Cavera presiding. Interment St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Lowell, Michigan.
Though our hearts ache in loss, we find comfort in the memories, laughter, and love Sue leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Pink Arrow Pride at https://www.pinkarrowpride.com/donate and/or Lowell Education Foundation at https://www.lowelleducationfoundation.org/donate-now.html.
20 Responses
So sorry to hear- Sue was a great all around person, world lost a special one.
Wonderful classmate and friend
Sue was such a wonderful person ❤️ I will truly miss my friend so much. She had wonderful stories of family and friends and will be missed greatly. Prayers for her family and friends getting through this time. I send love and hugs to everyone. We all lost someone very special❤️❤️❤️
So sorry to hear this she will be greatly missed.
Your Smile was contagious, your Heart was huge, peace be with you and your family!
It’s so hard to believe her Beautiful smile that was infectious from the time I started at the Lowell Elementary School. Until we Graduated. And everytime I seen any pictures of her it has always been there. One of the kindest loving people anyone could know. We all know ow your in Heaven Smiling down on All of Us. God Bless You Your Family and All Your Friends. In Jesus Name Amen 🙏
Only time can (sometimes) heal a broken heart ! Focus on all the happy memories of this truly good person…and smile…don’t cry. Always, Unc
Such a great lady- loved volunteering in her room and watching her teach her students- very sad
Sue and I grew up in the same neighborhood, she also became my daughter Sabra’s teacher, the past 10 years Sue has been an uplifting friend, reaching out to me when she thought I needed her words of wisdom and sense of humor, it’s funny how as we get older friendships evolve. She was most happy to share when she got the tile of Mimi. I have missed our conversations. My heart breaks for her boys.
Sending prayers during this difficult time. Sue was contagious with her smile, laugh and wit. She will be missed by many.
Sue was an incredible and caring friend and educator. She looked out for those who needed it most. Such a beautiful person 💜💜💜
Always loved Susie’s million dollar smile! We used to giggle hard- while walking home from Lowell High School.
Many years later we linked-up as special ed colleagues. ‘Love ya Sue!
Sue and I spent many evenings/nights together after hours at Murray Lake. I taught kindergarten but special education always had my heart. She was a special soul who I will always remember for her warmth and love. We would often check in on each other to see when one was leaving. Hugs love and prayers to her family!
A beautiful tribute to a beautiful neighbor, classmate, friend. I will miss our get-togethers when I come to Lowell. Hugs and prayers to all the family. I have enjoyed our connection and reconnection this past few years.
Sue was a light! A ray of sunshine to all who knew her and loved her. We taught together at LMS and shared our lunch times together. It was always filled with laughter and talks about our families. She was a great emotional support to me when my teenage daughter passed away in 2002. When I was struggling she lifted me up with her grace and Faith. She will be missed but she will never ever be forgotten because I will always speak her name 💜✝️💜
Heartfelt condolences and sympathy for the loss of Sue. It’s a very tragic loss. She was a wonderful woman. Love & Prayers for her family!
Sue was the kind of friend who made the world feel softer just by being in it—beautiful not only in appearance, but in the way she loved, gave, and showed up for everyone around her. Her kindness knew no limits, and her generosity came straight from the heart, never asking for anything in return.
She had a quick wit that could lift any mood, and a smile so infectious it brought light into even the darkest days. Being with her meant laughter, comfort, and a sense that everything would somehow be okay.
She gave so much of herself to others, and that love will continue to live on in all the lives she touched.
You will be missed, dear friend, more than words can ever say.
Sue was a great neighbor and friend as well as a well respected educator. I’m so sorry to hear of her passing.
Took many road trips to visit Sue while she was at WMU. She was a great person and will be missed.
My Deepest Sympathies. I remember her smile and kindness