Susan Ann Clemens

All who knew Susan Ann Clemens will certainly agree that she had a rebel soul with a big heart. Her witty sense of humor and fun-loving, adventurous spirit made every day interesting. Dearly missed, Sue will be forever loved and cherished by those who knew her best.

Born on July 22 of 1956, Susan Ann Brown was raised by her two loving parents, John and Mary Brown. She was raised in the family home in Vicksburg alongside her four older siblings, Linda, Sandy, John, and David. Sue’s father, a World War II veteran, worked as a pipe fitter at Wheeler Blaney and built a strong and loving foundation for his family to grown from. Her mother Mary suffered from health problems, so the Brown children learned from an early age how to maintain a home and to lean into each other for support.

Sue’s siblings were woven into the fabric of her life. Sue and Sandy shared a special bond which gave both women strength. They felt blessed to come together towards the end of Mary’s life to provide her with support and love. When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, Sue would dream of being a mother and providing her family with the same love and support she received.

Sue realized her dream on October 10, 1973, when she welcomed her first daughter, Khristina, into her arms. Her family soon grew to include four more children, Monica, Sheri, and James and John, her pair of fraternal twins. Money was tight but Sue found ways to make her children’s childhood magical. She was a fun and mischievous parent and a talented artist. Some of her children’s favorite Christmas memories came from homemade gifts she made herself.

Once her children were at an age she could join the work force, Sue earned her GED and pursued her interest in accountancy at Davenport University and graduating top of her class from EverRest University, earning her associate’s degree in medical administration. She was very proud of this accomplishment.

Not to be forgotten was the moment Sue met the man who would forever hold the key to her heart. His name was Curtis Clemens, and the two first met in October of 1999 while both were working at a local car dealership. It didn’t take Sue long to realize that Curtis was her soulmate, her perfect match in every way. He could always make her laugh. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Sue and Curtis were united in marriage at the courthouse in South Haven on May 3, 2003. The newlyweds then went out on their fishing boat. Curtis didn’t even fish, as he would say that he had already caught the big one!

Later on, Sue was overjoyed to become a grandmother and even a great-grandmother. She adored her grandkids, doting on them whenever she could. Sue’s life revolved around her family. She loved having her children and grandchildren over on the weekends, bringing the entire family together. Sue enjoyed celebrating Thanksgiving and Easter, but she took every chance to surround herself with her loved ones. She truly considered her family to be her greatest treasure.

She and Curtis enjoyed the simple pleasures of life together, having cook outs and bonfires. They often went fishing on Lake Michigan. Sue would drive the boat, and Curtis would run the lines. They would also attend concerts such as the blues series in downtown Kalamazoo, and she would sometimes ride along Curtis’ Harley. Though Sue wasn’t much of a cook, she did love to eat. When they hosted a big family breakfast, they would enlist the grandkids to help. Sue had an eye for art and could draw and paint, passing her artistic talents down to her son, John. She enjoyed reading her romance and sci-fi novels, and she also liked knitting and crocheting. Sue was known for her love for movies and card games. There was always music playing in the house. She liked all kinds of music, especially classic rock. Throughout her entire life, Sue loved having animals around her. Her last dog, Harley, was a faithful helper as her health began to decline. Sue’s Catholic faith was her strong foundation, and she would often say that her wonderful husband, Curtis, was her safe space.

As friends and family gather to reflect on the life of Susan Ann Clemens, it is easy to celebrate a woman who did so much to bring happiness to those around her. She was a shining example of kindness, and her feisty personality was a true testament to her unwavering determination. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Sue loved her family fiercely and unconditionally. Her willingness to go above and beyond to care for others has made an unforgettable impact on so many. Although she is already greatly missed, Sue leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her loved ones will forever hold close.

Susan Ann Clemens, age 69, died on December 21, 2025. She was preceded in death by her sister: Linda Pigg, and brother: John Brown Jr. Surviving her is her husband, Curtis; children: Khristina (Kevin) Navalta, Monica (Art) Priest, Sheri Replogle, and fraternal twins James and John Shirey; 15 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, her sister: Sandra Brown; and brother: David Brown.

Mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 11 AM at St. Jude’s Parish in Gobles, MI. A Life Story Reception will follow at 1 PM at Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Homes, 60900 M-40 Highway, Paw Paw (269) 657-3870 where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Celebrate Susan’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Centrica Rose Arbor Place Hospice.