Sue Ruzicka
December 27, 1939 ~ April 22, 2017
Mary Susan 'Sue' Ruzicka, 77, of Cedar Rapids, died Saturday, April 22, 2017 at home. Celebration of Life Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Thursday, April 27, 2017, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, with Deacon Jim Berger as celebrant. Burial following at St. John's Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Visitation: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at the funeral home.
Sue was born December 27, 1939, in Cedar Rapids, the daughter of Richard and Mary (Heath) Long. Sue married Mike Ruzicka on November 25, 1961. Together with the union, they had four children, Cathy (Mike) Gross of Palo, Chris Ruzicka of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Kevin (Debi) Ruzicka of Swisher, and Melissa (Dave) Dostal of Cedar Rapids. Later they were divorced.
Survivors include her children and their father; grandchildren, Courtney (Neal) Johnson, Cole Gross, Roni and Rhett Ruzicka, Nolan Dostal; and siblings, Diane Martin, Joan Bodensteiner, Pam Kane, Cindy Walker, Kathy Capra, Pat Aziere, Carolyn Martin, Debbie Wilkinson, John Long, Lisa Farley, Mike Long, and Bridget Long.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Dick, Dave, and Bob Long; and special friend, Butch Wawro.
Sue was proud to be a member of the first graduating class of Regis High School in 1959. After raising her children, she attended Kirkwood Community College. She obtained her LPN degree, furthering her career at Mercy Hospital. Sue then continued her passion for caring for others at Five Seasons Daycare.
Sue cherished the time she spent with her children and grandchildren. She was so proud to be their mother and Nana.
Memorials can be directed to the family.
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Aunt Sue touched many lives, mine included. From the first meeting I had with the Long family (1985) until my last visit with her at Mercy Medical Center. She was witty and fun, kind hearted, loving, caring, spunky, vivacious and had a smile for everyone. She brought life into the world, staying at my side during the birth of two of my children. Matt has GREAT memories of staying at her house several times during his childhood. He will forever cherish the memories of being hospitalized last summer, Sue in the room next to his, and the hours of talking they shared. We will miss you, your smile, and your kisses! Her legacy is in her children, who are amazing people. We love you all! Matt and Cathi Kane
I am very sorry you have to go through this. Sue was such an amazing friend to Judy Kelly. They always had such good things to say about each other and fun stories to tell. May God bring you all comfort and peace during these days, weeks, and months ahead. Becky Thomsen Shaffer
My sister, my love, my friend, my confidant, my dear sister. I love you with all my heart and soul! I love you Mary Susan and I will miss you greatly until we see each other again. We didn’t get a chance to have our “slumber party” (popcorn and all) at your new apartment….so …. save me a place in your new home and I will bring the popcorn. I will hold you in my heart until we meet again. Loving and missing you!
Mary Carolyn 🙂 XOXO
I havent seen Sue in a long time but will always remember her with great fondness. My best to her sisters that are left, such a sad time…. it doesnt seem possible but having lost my husband to cancer 23 years ago I know we are all aging rapidly…dont know HOW it happened so quickly. R.I.P. Sue.
I worked with Sue at 5 SEASONS daycare and enjoyed her genuine, sweet spirit. When our daughter had surgery to have her eardrum replaced Sue sat with me at the Hospital. Sue was Jesus to many people, a true disciple.May God comfort her family at this time as they grieve. Jan Maire
My sincere sympathy to all of your family for your loss. Melissa, your mom has always been your mom, will always be your mom and will stay in your heart forever. Peace be with you during this difficult time.
Melissa, Chris, Kevin, and Cathy – so sorry to hear about your mom. My thoughts are with you. Peace to you all – Jen