Susan E. Reed

Susan Elizabeth (Schlecht) Reed, a Christian through the incarnation, death, and resurrection of her Savior Jesus Christ, has lived, confessed, and now fallen asleep in the certainty of divine forgiveness and eternal life.

She was born June 26, 1949, in Fairbury, Nebraska, along with a twin sister, to the Reverend Richard and Ruth Schlecht. The Holy Baptism she received as a gift the following July 10 anchored Susan in her life-long saving Christian faith.

She was schooled through Lutheran education and became a Lutheran primary school teacher herself. She was a 1971 graduate of Concordia Teachers College, Seward, Nebraska, where she met her future husband.

On June 10, 1972, Susan was married to David H. Reed. They were supremely blessed throughout 53 years of Christian marriage and with the joy of four daughters: Christine (Brett) Miller, Crown Point, IN; Rebecca (Jeremy) VanTol, Unionville, MI; Allison (Matthew) Wolf, Milwaukee, WI; and Elizabeth (Andy) Lee, Alexandria, VA.

Susan took on the role of a pastor's wife when David completed studies for the Lutheran pastoral ministry at Concordia Theological Seminary. No woman could have done so more beautifully or loyally during his multiple pastorates.

This March 5, a heart event led to her sudden passing. Notwithstanding that great sadness, life in Christ triumphs. Her Lord Jesus was there to gently receive her. Susan is survived by David, her beloved daughters, and eight treasured grandchildren, Emma (Jason), Jacob, Nathan, Claire, Caleb, Hannah, Leah, and Samuel. She is also survived by her twin, Elizabeth Rufner, Fort Wayne, IN; sister-in-law Martha Schlecht, Rochester, MI; and brother-in-law Tom (Beth) Reed, Yuma, AZ.  Sue was predeceased by her parents and a brother, Richard.

Susan will be laid to her rest from services at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Unionville at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 10. Visitation will be Monday, March 9, at the Juengel & Mellendorf Funeral Home, Inc., Sebewaing, from 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Those considering memorials are invited to regard Orphan Grain Train—Michigan or Concordia University Nebraska.

Susan Reed lived always in the joy of Christ.  She is deeply loved by her Lord who will awaken her at the resurrection.  Sue knew God's Word never fails.  Life continues—and that life is only in union with Jesus Christ.  The Lord's faithfulness and resurrection promise we celebrate today.