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Suzanne Michelle
Roncka
Jan 15, 1941 — Apr 14, 2025
Suzanne M. Roncka, 84 years old of Bad Axe died on April 14, 2025. Sue was a remarkable woman whose vibrant spirit and dedication to her community left a lasting impact. Born and raised in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, she met her husband, John (Jack) Roncka, at Park Davis and settled in St. Clair Shores before moving to Bad Axe, Michigan, in 1972.
Together, they raised four children Kathy, Jean, John, and Mike. Sue was a cornerstone of the Bad Axe community for 53 years; Sue chaired the Red Cross Blood Drive, showcasing her commitment to helping others. She held leadership roles as past President and Secretary of the Huron Medical Hospital Auxiliary, managed the office at Thumb Blanket (where she was part owner), and served as the Lutheran Church Secretary Office Manager from 1990 to 2018. Her community involvement extended to the Child Study Club, McLaren Thumb Region Hospital, and running hospital bridge tournaments for a decade. Sue also played a key role in establishing the first columbarium at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Professionally, she worked in retail at Kritzman's and Norman's, bringing her warmth and energy to every role. Sue will be remembered for her humility, optimism, and infectious sense of fun. Sue was a beloved mother, friend, and community member. She maintained lifelong friendships, loved playing bridge, dining out, and sipping wine with friends. Her playful, "glass-half-full" nature and love for laughter made her a joy to be around. Sue's home in Bad Axe was a welcoming haven, filled with unique decorations and collections, where she enjoyed watching wildlife through her bay window. A thrifting enthusiast, she had a knack for style, coordinating everything from her socks to her lipstick. Always on the move, Sue drove her van across town and state to visit family and friends, embodying her "pedal to the metal" zest for life. She passed away peacefully in Grand Rapids Michigan, surrounded by her children. Preceeded in death by her parents, Joseph Cavanaugh and Ruth Wendell (and stepfather Ed), her brother Joey Cavanaugh, and her husband Jack. Sue is survived by her four children, 12 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Sue's legacy of kindness, community service, and joyful living will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Memorial mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Hubert Parish/Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Bad Axe, on Wednesday April 23, 2025 at 11:00am with Fr. Yesu Mulakaleti officiating.
Visitation will be at MacAlpine Funeral Home, Tuesday April 22nd, 2025 at 4:00pm- 8:00pm, and Wednesday April 23rd, 2025 10:00am until time of service.
Condolences for the family, may be shared at www.macalpinefuneralhome.com
Tuesday
MacAlpine Funeral Home
4:00 - 8:00 pm
Wednesday
St. Hubert Parish/ Sacred Heart Catholic Church
10:00 - 11:00 am
Wednesday
St. Hubert Parish/Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Starts at 11:00 am
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