Susan Mary Schroeder

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Susan Schroeder, who passed away on July 22, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Susan was born in Chicago on July 11, 1953, to Ukrainian immigrants Maria and Michael Kowalyszyn. She graduated from Thomas Kelly High School in 1971 and went on to attend Southern Illinois University, where she earned a degree in Mathematics. Susan met Vern, her husband of nearly 46 years, while working at DataFold in Chicago. The couple married on September 5, 1980.

Susan and Vern lived in Illinois and Virginia before settling in Tucson, which they called home for the past 33 years.

Susan generously volunteered her time to many organizations throughout the Tucson community. When her daughters were young, she served as a Girl Scout troop leader and was active in the PTA at their schools. She also dedicated her time to the Tucson Museum of Art, served as Co-President of the Women's Golf League at La Paloma, and served on the Ministry of Worship among other teams at Casas Adobes United Church of Christ.

Susan is survived by her devoted husband, Vern; her children, Todd (Teresa), Katie (Terrance), and Elizabeth (Jason); and her five grandchildren, Jacob, Jack, Kinsley, Joshua, and Tyler.

What we will miss most about our mother is her joyful laugh, her devotion to her grandchildren, her wonderful cooking, and the unwavering love and support she gave to everyone around her. She had a special gift for making life fun—whether she was fiercely competing in a game of Sequence, putting on a silly costume or bringing out a creative prop to make her children and grandchildren laugh. No matter the problem, she was always ready with reassurance, thoughtful advice, or a helping hand.

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 1:30 pm at Casas Adobes United Church of Christ at 6801 North Oracle Road in Tucson, Arizona.