Obituary for Susan M. "Sue" Harris

Susan was born to Gerald and Marian (Halverson) Michaels on June 19th, 1962 in La Crosse, Wisconsin. She graduated from Central High School in 1980, where she met her future husband and love of her life, John Harris. The couple married on October 3, 1987 and moved to Stoddard, Wisconsin where they would raise their two children, Michael and Kaitlin. Sue spent most of her working life self-employed, initially running a day care out of her home and later sold antiques and collectibles on eBay.

Sue was known for her radiant and outgoing personality. She had an enormous heart and a contagious smile and laugh that could brighten a room. She loved her family and friends more than anything, and especially loved being a mother and grandma. She was an active part of her community and was a member of the Lioness Club and frequently volunteered at Stoddard Elementary. She enjoyed gardening, hunting for rare antiques at rummage sales and auctions, spontaneous road trips, and of course spending quality time with her family.

Sue suddenly fell ill in the spring of 2001 after suffering a series of strokes caused by a rare disease called central nervous system vasculitis. Although she lost some cognitive functions and the ability to walk, she never lost her sense of humor, silliness and golden heart. Sue was a resident of Bethany St. Joseph and later Riverside Transitional Care where she touched the lives of many staff over the years with whom she would sing songs and playfully joke around with. Her laughter was sure to be heard down the halls.

Sue is preceded in death by one daughter, Jennifer Michaels; her parents; brothers, Jim and Scott Michaels; and nephew, Luke Michaels.

She is survived by her husband, John; two children, Michael Harris and Kaitlin (Austin Smith) Harris; one granddaughter, Layla Smith; siblings, Diane (Jim) Young, Kerry (Scott) Deuchar, Sally (Dean Fuchs) Michaels, Janice (Ken) Becker, Bob (Lilah) Michaels, Tom (Connie) Michaels, and John Michaels; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to all the nursing home and hospital staff who've provided Sue with outstanding compassionate care over all these years.

You're free now mother, dancing with the angels. We love you more than there are stars in the sky.

A gathering for family and friends will be held from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Friday, September 8, 2023, at Fredrickson Funeral Home, Woodruff Chapel, 4239 Mormon Coulee Rd., La Crosse. The evening will conclude with a brief prayer service at 6:00 p.m. Pastor Linda McPeak will officiate.

Online condolences may be offered on this website.

Fredrickson Funeral Homes, Woodruff Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.