Susan Patricia Carlson

Susan Patricia Carlson was born on May 25, 1938, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Paul and Dorothy (Dolson) Johnson. She passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025 at Medilodge of Grand Rapids, a lifelong resident of the area.

After Sue graduated from Central High School, she furthered her education at GRJC. Sue was honored to be named their first ever Homecoming Queen. It was also here that she met Gordon Carlson, her future groom. It was a monumental day on August 1, 1959, when the smitten couple were united in marriage.

For over 30 years, Sue made her career at General Motivation working with many clients over her time with the company. Sue and Gordy were members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids for over 60 years.

Sue was loved by all her friends at Scott Lake CC, Bob’s Bar, Tillman’s and yes, of course, Ducks. She enjoyed the game of golf with all its challenges, and bowling, always trying for a 300 game. An avid sports fan she was always hoping for another Tiger’s World Series Championship. She was thrilled with the performance of the Lions over the last few seasons, and she always cheered for MSU and Sparty.

During Sue and Gordy’s nearly 62 years of marriage, they were blessed with their 3 sons, Steve (Sue), Mic (Susan) and Matt (Anne). Sue cherished her boys and beautiful daughters-in-law. She also adored her only grandchild, Chase, and shared with him a mutual love of sports and was always his biggest cheerleader. She too was blessed with three step-grandchildren, Tommy, Christopher, and Andrew Schichtel.

A Memorial Visitation will take place on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Reyers North Valley Chapel, followed by a Memorial Service at 1:30 p.m. A Celebration of Sue’s life will follow starting at 3:00 p.m. at St. Adalbert’s Fraternal Aid (Fifth Street Hall, 701 5th St NW).

Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Francis Sculpture Garden https://www.saintfrancissculpturegarden.org or Bethlehem Lutheran Church.