Susan Michelle Whitefield

Our beloved mother Susan Michelle Whitefield (Beach), 66 years young, of Traverse City, Michigan, born to Edsel and Armeda Beach on February 13, 1959, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025 in Dayton, Ohio. She was surrounded by two of her daughters and her sister holding her hands. Mom’s gift for guidance and inspiration touched the lives of her children, grandchildren, siblings and countless others. She lit up the room wherever she was and always had a huge smile we will never forget. Our mom was a pillar of strength and support and was always there to lend a helping hand to all. Mom enjoyed spending quality time with her family every chance she got. She was often found baking cookies, canning vegetables, or making jam. She always enjoyed a nice bowl of ice cream topped with fresh fruit, M&M’s or maple syrup. Mom loved a “good deal” and could often be found at a garage sale or a thrift store. Her passion was tending to her vegetable stands with the harvest from Mike’s gardens. Mom had a heart of gold with a beautiful, gentle spirit, similar to her dad. She loved playing games of all sorts, including a newly found enjoyment for pickleball with her sister Carolyn. She was always just a phone call away, had the best listening ear, and always provided a word of sound advice. She wanted everyone to get along and was known for being a peacemaker. Love could have been her middle name. Mom naturally made everyone feel included, special, and will always be known for taking a “quick selfie” with her family and friends. We will always be thankful for the beautiful memories. Mom strived to be Christ-like and had fellowship with a church that met in Jesus’ name and a ministry patterned after the ministry Jesus established. She finished faithfully and in peace. Sue is survived by her loving companion: Mike Kiessel of Suttons Bay, MI. Her seven treasured children: Michelle Dellar (Loren) of Harrisville, MI, Jonathon Whitefield (Gretchen) of Harrisville, MI, Joshua Whitefield of Harrisville, MI, Mary LaLonde (Kenny) of Spruce, MI, Jane Goldberg (Michael) of Rye, CO, James Whitefield of Harrisville, MI, and Joseph Whitefield (Jessica) of Traverse City, MI, along with their father Wayne Whitefield of Traverse City, MI. Her adored grandchildren: Blake Dellar (Kaitlyn), Blaire Dellar, Bailey Dellar, Blayne Dellar, Brayden Dellar, Bryce Dellar, Piper Whitefield, Raven Whitefield, Harper Whitefield, Skyla Whitefield, Quinten Goldberg (Kaitlin), Kaden Goldberg, Nicolas Goldberg, Mason Goldberg, and Barrett Goldberg. Her precious great-grandchildren: Lucas Dellar, James Dellar, Josephine Dettmer, Charles Goldberg, and Henry Goldberg. Her loving mother: Armeda Beach. Her cherished siblings: Vicki Nesbitt, William Beach, Carolyn Stover (Gregory), Rebecca Birkhofer (Stanley). Her extended family including nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. She is preceded in death by her father Edsel Beach and brother-in-law David Nesbitt. The family will be holding funeral services on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St. Traverse City, Michigan 49684. Visitation will start at 11 AM and funeral service to follow at 1 PM. A burial and a luncheon will be held following the funeral service. Both locations will be announced at the time of the funeral. Nancy Downs and Laura Erickson will be officiating.

Susan Michelle Whitefield

February 13, 1959 - August 16, 2025