Sue Zan Tiedeman

Sue Zan Tiedeman

Sue Zan Tiedeman, a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and dear friend, was born on June 6, 1937, in Rock Island, Ill. Her life was shaped by family, lasting friendships, a love of travel and a deep commitment to the communities she called home. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel special. Her kindness, warmth and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Born Sue Zan Keagle, she met Donald Louis Tiedeman at the University of Illinois. They married in June 1959 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rock Island and shared 57 years together. Their relationship was marked by shared love and mutual devotion, and they built a life filled with family, friendship and adventure.

An enthusiastic tennis player and skier, Sue also enjoyed the performing arts and gardening. She devoted considerable time to volunteer work -- generously giving her time to organizations and people who mattered to her. A lifelong learner, she was rarely without a book and maintained a curiosity about the world throughout her life.

Travel was among Sue and Don’s greatest shared passions. They often took several trips a year, exploring nearly every country in the world with their lifelongfriends. They immersed themselves in the history, culture and traditions of the places they visited. They delighted in discovering new places and perspectives, sharing adventures that reflected their love of learning and appreciation for the arts. Of all the places they explored, St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands held a special place in their hearts. They returned nearly every year, making the island a cherished tradition and the setting for many happy memories.

Sue’s greatest legacy was her family and friends. She treasured holidays and vacations spent together, finding her greatest happiness in having her daughters, grandchildren and loved ones gathered around her. She made each person feel valued and loved, creating a sense of warmth and belonging that made time together especially meaningful. The memories and traditions she nurtured remain a lasting gift to the family she cherished.

In her later years, Sue faced a debilitating health condition that gradually limited her ability to enjoy many of her favorite activities. Even as her world became smaller, her warmth, humor and gentle spirit remained a source of comfort to those around her.

Sue was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don, who died on November 22, 2016. She is survived by her four daughters and their families: Wendy Cawley and her husband, Jon, and grandchildren David, Daniel, Jeremy and Jessica; Kristin Tiedeman and grandson Nicholas; Karyn Magee and her husband, Tony, and grandchildren Aidan and Fionna; and Leslie Tiedeman and grandchildren Kole and Alexandra.

Sue will be remembered for her kindness, her devotion to her family, the loving partnership she shared with Don and the many friendships she cultivated over a lifetime. Like a garden tended with care, the love she gave continues to grow in the lives of those she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Chapel Hill Garden Club in Sue’s memory.