Suzanne Rudin

Suzanne “Sue” Rudin, 76, of Manitowoc, went to be with the Lord on September 16, 2026. She passed away peacefully at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin.

Sue was born on May 9th, 1950, in Manitowoc as an only child to John and Ethel (Mrotek) Rudin. Her father was a naval officer and was later stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii. Sue attended grade school there for the early part of her education. She enjoyed the island life, swimming and gathering sea shells on all the islands. Upon return to Manitowoc, she finished her studies and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1968. Shortly after high school, she moved to Chicago to be a private nanny for a prominent family. She was also a swimming instructor and lifeguard at a nearby elite country club. Her exceptional care earned her an invitation to accompany the family on a 5-year journey to Egypt and other Middle Eastern countries. Sue graciously declined and returned home to be near the friends and places she loved most. She then took a job at Newell Rubbermaid (formerly Mirro Aluminum Company) where she met many lifelong friends.

Sue's life truly flourished when she found her lifelong home and heart with the Eugene and Isabel Brennan family. What began as an open door grew into a profound 55+ year bond. Sue was never a guest; she became a true daughter, sister, and aunt in every way that mattered, sharing in all family milestones and in just everyday life.

Sue enjoyed motorcycle riding and always had a passion for adventures and the open road. That love for adventure transitioned into travel and long road trips. Sue, an excellent driver, was always the designated driver on family and friend trips, safely steering her sisters, friends, and mother Brennan through countless miles in her Mustang, VW Van, and finally in her big white van affectionately dubbed by her brother Bill as the “Pope Mobile.” Though she had no children of her own, Sue had a rare patience for them and loved them throughout her life. She poured that devotion into her family by taking her nieces and nephews on fun trips creating beautiful lifelong memories for them. The laughter and memories shared on those highways were among the greatest joys of her life.

With her lifelong love for all animals, Sue's compassionate heart shone brightest in devotion to her two cats she loved dearly. An artist at heart, she possessed a natural talent for drawing and sketching, creating beautiful artwork – entirely self-taught. In her later years, she enjoyed quieter pastimes; she was a sharp mind who enjoyed playing computer games, mastering crossword puzzles, and watching her favorite TV shows and movies, especially anything with Chuck Norris.

Sue is survived by her Mrotek cousins; her chosen sisters and brother: Bonnie Brennan, Eileen (Harvey) Mleziva, Bill Brennan, Laurie Wegforth, and Maureen (Dennis) Lehman and their families; her Godson Alex Gauger; Brothers-in-law David Anderson and Will Gauger; as well as dear friends Marlene and Linda.

In addition to her parents, Sue was preceded in death by those who loved her as a daughter and sister Eugene and Isabel Brennan, JoAnn Anderson, Carol Gauger; niece Heather Gauger; and Brother-in-law Thomas Wegforth.

Sue bore years of pain and discomfort with a quiet resilience choosing to carry her own burdens. Yet, she always maintained a generous heart and an unwavering loyalty to the people she loved. We will miss her dearly. We find comfort knowing Sue is now at peace, resting in the care of the Lord. As Saint Therese of Lisieux (her favorite saint) wrote, “No harm can come to me since, in whatever happens, I see only the tender hand of Jesus.”

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating Sue's life and faith in Christ will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Calvary Cemetery and Chapel, 2601 South 14th St., Manitowoc, with Reverend David Pleier officiating. The family will receive friends and loved ones from noon until the time of service at the chapel. A private burial will take place separately at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Manitowoc.

The family would like to express a special thank you to Theda Clark Hospital of Neenah and Sharon S. Richardson Hospice Facility for treating Sue with gentle care and dignity.

Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting family with arrangements.

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