Susan Kay Girard, 77, of Traverse City passed away October 20, 2019 at the Grand Traverse Pavilions with her family by her side.

Sue was born on April 19, 1942 in Traverse City to the late Fritz and Gladys (Alger) Bloch.

Sue attended NMC where she earned her Associates Degree and then MSU where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education. While at NMC she met the love of her life, Cliff. They united in marriage on August 20, 1966 at the First Congregational Church.

Sue was a gifted teacher. She loved to share with her students her love of learning and love of reading. She taught at Willow Hill, Small World Nursery and Glen Loomis, retiring in 2004.

In her free time she enjoyed travelling with her husband to warmer climates and to Alaska. She also was a voracious reader and lover of puzzles. She was a reluctant camper, but cherished the time spent with family and friends in nature. Sue had a soft spot in her heart for animals and had many beloved pets. Sue was a member of the First Congregational Church and volunteered with TCAPS after her retirement.

Sue is survived by her husband of 53 years, Clifford; daughter Nicolle (Robert Kline) Girard and son Christopher "CJ" (Jennifer Ciolek) Girard.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2019 from 5 to 7 pm at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

The funeral service celebrating Sue's life will be held on Friday October 25, 2019 at 1:00 pm with visitation beginning one hour prior at the First Congregational Church. Refreshments and cookies will follow in the fireside room.

Family graveside services will be held at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Cherryland Humane Society or to the First Congregational Church.