Susan Marie Dekich (Klobuchar), 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved her deeply after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Sue was born on November 1, 1955, in Hibbing and cherished her childhood in the small town of Leetonia, where days were filled with bikes, swimming in ore pits, and countless outdoor adventures. Those early years shaped her lifelong sense of joy, curiosity, and love of nature.

After graduating from Hibbing High School, Sue attended The College of St. Scholastica, a place that forever held a piece of her heart, along with the Benedictine sisters who helped shape her faith and values. After earning her degree, she began a lifelong career in education at Grand Rapids/ Robert J. Elkington Middle School, where she touched generations of students.

Sue married Mike in 1978, and together they raised their three children—Ryan, Mary Beth, and Molly—in Grand Rapids.

Much of her career centered around home economics, creativity, and helping others discover their gifts. She loved math, reading, cooking, and education in all forms, and she shared those passions generously with her students and the Grand Rapids community for nearly 50 years.

Sue's artistry was woven throughout her life. She brought beauty into countless lives through costumes for Reif Center performances, marching band color guard designs, custom creations for friends and clients, and handmade gifts celebrating graduations, children, and life's milestones. Her creativity was an expression of love—whether she was sewing something beautiful, teaching a skill, preparing a meal, or baking yet another batch of Special K bars or monster cookies to be shared and enjoyed. Many summer days were spent hosting Grand Rapids kids in her backyard pool—she loved the water.

Above all, Sue most adored being "Grandma/MiMi." Her seven beautiful grandchildren brought her endless pride and joy. Whether cheering them on in the classroom, at the rink or golf course, reading books to them, or simply delighting in everyday moments, she was one of their greatest champions. She taught them kindness, respect, hard work, and, of course, many good recipes.

Later in life, Sue met Gary Saari, and together they built years of memories biking, skiing, reading, cooking, and practicing their faith. In the final 15 months of Sue's life, Gary cared for her with extraordinary devotion and steadfast love, serving as her rock through it all.

Relationships were at the center of Sue's life. She held close her childhood friends from Hibbing, her beloved teaching colleagues—especially her ADK and OTP groups—her Grand Rapids and college friends, and her book club, all of whom enriched her life immeasurably.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, George and LaVonne Klobuchar; five angel grandchildren; and several dear friends.

She is survived by her children, Ryan (Andrea) Dekich of Grand Rapids, Mary Beth (Branden) Fessler of Bloomington, and Mollyann (Derek) Rydlund of Cambridge; her beloved grandchildren, Brianna, Bryce, Mariah, Fiona, Conor, Hayden, and Sloane; her brother, Patrick (Cyndi) Klobuchar; sister, Lois (Derek) McClellan; nieces and nephews/great nieces and nephews who had a special relationship with Auntie Sue.

Sue will be remembered for her creativity, faith, generosity, fierce love for family, and the quiet ways she made life more beautiful for those around her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14 from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, in Grand Rapids, MN. An additional visitation will take place on Friday, May 15 from 10:00–11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at the church.

During her illness, Sue was often surrounded by flowers, which brought her great comfort and joy. Floral tributes are welcome, and for those who wish, memorials may also be made to the Memorial Blood Center.