Sue Dehn

Sue Anne Dehn was known for her warm, friendly personality, independence and meticulous housekeeping. She was an open and honest person who loved to smile and laugh. Sue led a simple and happy life, filled with the friends and family who brought her life joy.

The 1970s were a time of great technological change in America. As computers and space exploration continued to evolve, millions became fixated with television shows and movies that explored these themes. It was into these changing times that Melbourne Dehn and his wife, Inez (Johnson), welcomed the birth of their daughter, Sue Anne, on July 21, 1973, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was one of six Dehn children. Sue spent her growing up years on the west side of Grand Rapids, where she graduated from the Grand Rapids Public Schools.

Always caring and thoughtful, Sue found great happiness in the simple pleasures of life. Her warm smile and friendly “hello” was cordially given to all the bus drivers (since she always rode the bus), who she knew by name, and the postman too. Sue made it a point never to forget her mother’s birthday each year, making sure to find the perfect present, and she gave her sisters each calendars at Christmas time. It was always apparent to her family how Sue was feeling on any particular day by her walk. If she was happy, she might have a spring in her step, lifting her feet easily, yet if she was a little down, her step was not as lively. Although Sue may have been quiet and perhaps a solitary person, if she had something to say, you can bet she would make her opinion known.

Sue’s fondest wish in life just recently came true, as she was able to move into her own apartment. She took great pride in her new place and meticulously kept it clean with everything in its proper place. Sue enjoyed being alone and filled her time with watching television, especially the Game Show Network, and using her computer to play games. Her radio was usually tuned to the classic rock stations for she didn’t enjoy the music of today. Sue also loved the companionship of her dog, Abbey. When she wanted to get out for a while, Sue would ride the bus to the local malls and just leisurely walk around, taking in the sights.

Sue’s life was filled with the wonderful simple things of life. Her personality shone like the sun – warm and compassionate for those around her. People she met usually walked away with a smile because of her friendly disposition and kind heart. Sue will be remembered by her family as a wonderful daughter, sister and friend. She will be greatly missed.

Sue was preceded in death by her father, Melbourne Dehn. She is survived by her mother, Inez Dehn; brother, Jon (Sherry) Dehn; sisters, Michelle Vollema, Wendy (Dan) Zoppa, Yvonne (Jay) Chalko, and Mary Chesebro; good friend, Norma Moorhead; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many friends.

Sue Anne Dehn passed away on February 2, 2005. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Sue will be held on Sunday, February 20, 2005, at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Van Strien-Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield NE, Grand Rapids, MI, at 5 p.m. Interment in Rosedale Memorial Park. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you may share a memory, order flowers or make a memorial contribution to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.