Susie A. Van Thiel

Susie A. Van Thiel, age 100, of Kenosha, died Saturday, January 17, 2015, at United Hospital Systems- Kenosha Campus.

Born April 11, 1914 in Kenosha, she was the daughter of the late Martin and Suzanne (Yaeger) Lang.

In her youth, Susie completed ninth grade at Washington Jr. High and was very active in school sports, earning letters that she proudly wore.

On December 30, 1931, in Waukegan, IL, she married Charles A. Van Thiel Sr. They moved to Kenosha in the early 1940’s making it their new home.  Sadly, after 71 years of marriage, Charles preceded her in death on June 3, 2002.

Susie loved gardening and was known for her beautiful flowers and tasty vegetables.  She was an outstanding home maker who excelled in cooking and sewing.  Susie will especially be remembered for her crocheted and ceramic gifts.

She loved serving her community in many ways.  She was a poll worker at Berryville and Somers precincts.  With her husband, Charles they were active volunteers at the area soup kitchen.  Susie was a supporter of young Wisconsin politicians especially laws formed to benefit the average person.

Susie was an active member of the Eagles Aerie #1055 Women’s Auxiliary, where she served as President for many years and she was also a member of the Danish Sisterhood Lodge #20 in Kenosha.

Survivors include her son, Charles A. (Gloria J.) Van Thiel, Jr. of Kenosha; her daughter, Sandra S. Van Thiel of Siloam Springs, AR; a grandson, Drake (Sharon); four great-grandchildren; and six great great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Mary Schassler, Barbara Engelmann, and Margaret Cappelle, three brothers, Fred, Martin and John Lang and a granddaughter, Tracy.