Died on 10.10.2023

Sue was a kind soul with a gentle and understanding heart. She was a teacher and a counselor to middle school students. She could energize and electrify her students, but still satisfy the most demanding of parents.

Each year Sue would compose a Christmas poem that would include endearing and encouraging messages to each of her students, individually. Both students and their parents treasured the experience. She started a chess club at her school, and was so pleased to see that the girls, and even the most introverted students, enjoyed their participation.

Sue started a yearly project for the kids that she called “Puttin’ on the Hits”. Any student who wanted to, could perform lip-syncing and dancing to their favorite songs, while they were video-recorded. They loved to compete, and come out of their shells, even, if only for a moment, for this special event.

The attic is filled with box after box of grateful letters, cards, and gifts that she had been given over the years. Here’s a representative sampling:

• From a copy of a letter that a parent sent to Sue’s principal, praising Sue’s ability to lift her daughter’s spirit (and grades). “This year she (the student) has changed from being a “C” student with no self-confidence, who disliked school; into an Honor Roll student who is now striving for all “A”s, and looks forward to each new day”. The parent asked her daughter why she liked Ms. Cole so much; the daughter said to the parent, “Mom, she makes learning fun.”
• From a middle-school boy’s handmade card to “Ms. Cole”, “I wish I failed and I could get you again. You are the Best teacher I ever had.”

Sue was a caregiver to a dear friend for decades (now passed). The friend would often say to Sue, “You make my heart smile”.

Sue lived her entire life with dignity and grace. She loved kids, friends, and animals, and they loved her back. Before passing she wanted to call out a few of her closest and dearest: Karl and Melinda, Kurt and Rhonda, Marilynne and Phil, Karen and her entire family. Sorry, this list is incomplete.

Note: Sue has requested that no funeral events of any kind be performed on her behalf. Also, please forgo flowers and gifts. That would be much appreciated.