Sue Schelhaas

A shining example of compassion and fierce, unconditional love, Sue Schelhaas has left an unforgettable impact on so many lives throughout her journey. She was a constant source of encouragement and support, and she gave freely of her time and energy, going above and beyond to generously serve others in whatever ways she could. Sue’s loved ones were the focus of her life, and her family was undoubtedly her greatest treasure. Her strength came from her unwavering faith in the Lord she loved so much. Although life will never be the same without Sue here with us, she will be forever loved and remembered by those who knew her best.

The early 1940s are remembered as some of the most tumultuous and difficult years in human history, with the era being defined by the devastation caused by WWII. Here at home in the United States, many watched anxiously to see if America would enter the war. As tensions continued to rise overseas, the Great Depression was still a very real burden on the shoulders of many across our nation. It was on August 15th of 1941 that baby Sue made her entrance into the world in Louisville, Kentucky.

At the young age of three, Sue was adopted by her adoring parents, Sjuk and Nellie Offringa. She knew she was adopted since she was a little girl, and she held nothing but love for her parents. Sue was so proud and grateful to have been adopted by such wonderful people. She was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, enjoying an amazing and memorable childhood.

Throughout her formative years, Sue received her education at local schools. While attending Grand Rapids Christian, she was blessed to meet John Schelhaas, the young man who would forever hold the key to her heart. The two were high school sweethearts and celebrated their graduation in 1959. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Sue and John were married just a couple of years later in July of 1961. Throughout their 65 years of marriage, the couple never left one another’s side. As a young woman, Sue also worked as a comptometer operator for Heckman Biscuit. She was a very hardworking and dedicated employee, admired for her sense of responsibility and her solid work ethic.

Sue and John were truly soulmates in every way, and much to their delight, it wasn’t long before their family began to grow. They welcomed their first son, Timothy, into their hearts and home in 1962, followed by Eric in 1964 and Kenneth in 1967. Sue thrived in her role as a mother and homemaker. She left the workforce behind in order to fully focus on caring for her family and raising her boys. In addition to running her household, Sue helped John with the family restaurant, Lanning’s, on Leonard Street in Grand Rapids. She was dedicated to instilling the faith that meant so much to her in her children and made sure they attended Christian schools. Sue and John also made the decision to extend their love and care to several foster children over the years, eventually bringing a daughter, Huy, into the family.

Later in life, Sue was overjoyed to become a doting grandmother to Kyle, Kaleb, Ryan, Dillon, Rachel, Riley, Averi, and Olivia. Her grandkids were her biggest blessing, and she flourished as a grandmother. Sue was known for her crafts, projects, and creative ideas for keeping the grandchildren entertained. She loved nothing more than showering her grandkids with attention and adoration. Sue considered herself blessed to welcome two great-grandchildren, Che and Lucille, as well, with one more on the way. Baking was one of Sue’s favorite ways to show her love to her family. Her cakes were the highlight of every special occasion. Sue was famous for her thoughtful and creative cards, and she was also a talented seamstress. Of all the things that brought her joy, she was happiest when surrounded by her loved ones.

As we gather to honor and reflect on the vibrant and overflowing life of Sue Schelhaas, it is easy to celebrate a woman who brought such light and warmth into the lives of those around her. She served as a powerful role model of integrity, and she faced every challenge that came her way with determination and grace. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Sue was the heartbeat of her family. Her zest for life was insatiable, and she strove to live out her faith in word and deed, serving others with humility and kindness. Already so very missed, Sue leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Susanna Schelhaas, 85, of Grand Rapids passed away on Friday, September 25, 2026.

She is survived by her loving husband: John; children: Tim (Tari), Eric, Ken (Becca) and Huy; grandchildren: Kyle (Haylie), Kaleb, Ryan (Alexa), Dillon (Madison), Rachel (Joe), Riley, Averi, and Olivia; great grandchildren: Che, Lucille, and 1 on the way.

She is preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial gathering will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5-7:00 P.M. at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes- Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49504. Memorial Contributions may be made according to West Side Christian Schools. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit, www.heritagelifestory.com