Susan M. Werkheiser

Susan Marie "Susie" Werkheiser (Edwards), age 62, of Stacy, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, after a courageous and unwavering battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Born on March 4, 1963, in Madison, Wisconsin, Susie lived a life full of love, faith, laughter, and resilience.

Susie is survived by her husband Andy and their beloved son Mason. She also leaves behind her father Dale Edwards; siblings Lynda (Rick) Johnson, Lori (Tony) Reinhardt, Randy Edwards, and Jason (Dawn) Edwards. She was preceded in death by her cherished mother Barbara Edwards and her youngest son Tyler Werkheiser.

Before meeting the love of her life, Susie was known for her independence and zest for life. She had a passion for Corvettes and could often be found dancing the night away with her dear friend Carla and others who tried to keep up—though few ever could. Her professional life reflected the same determination and capability; she built a successful career and most recently served as the Office Manager at RETEC, an environmental consulting firm. Her leadership and dedication left a lasting impression on colleagues and clients alike.

On April 29, 2000, Susie married Andy, beginning a new chapter filled with love, partnership, and shared faith. Just three weeks after their wedding, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Though the diagnosis brought challenges, Susie met them head-on with grace and strength. She continued working until the demands of MS required her to step away from her career—at which point she poured her heart into raising her three boys…two sons, Mason and Tyler, and her often childlike husband.

Together with Andy, Susie raised their boys in faith at Immanuel Church in Forest Lake. She volunteered with AWANA and other youth ministries that supported their spiritual growth. Her deep love for the Lord guided every aspect of her life. She was a shining example to her family—faithfully sending daily Bible verses to Mason and Tyler that were often met with a thumbs-up or heart emoji that encouraged her to keep sharing God’s word.

Susie’s journey with MS was marked by perseverance. From walking with a cane to eventually requiring specialized equipment and full-time care at Ecumen North Branch beginning in January 2025, she never lost sight of what mattered most: her family and her faith. Even as physical limitations grew more severe, she remained spiritually strong—immersed in daily devotions and Scripture readings that sustained her spirit—and she demonstrated extraordinary grace and gratitude toward family, friends, and caregivers who came alongside her. She so often cared more about how everyone else was affected than how she was suffering.

Her strength was tested beyond measure on August 17, 2024, when she tragically lost Tyler in a motorcycle accident. The grief of losing a child is unimaginable for most—but even through heartbreak, Susie remained steadfast in her devotion to her Savior Jesus Christ. Her resilience inspired all who knew her.

Beyond faith and family, Susie found joy in simple pleasures. She loved playing cards—especially euchre, pinochle, and online poker (with fake money only!). But perhaps nothing captured her competitive spirit quite like Candy Crush; she reached level 17,887—a feat that speaks volumes about her determination (and maybe just a little stubbornness).

Susie also loved cooking for Andy and the boys. She delighted in trying new recipes—some of which became family favorites while others were met with expressions that made it clear they’d never be made again. These kitchen adventures brought laughter and memories that will be treasured forever.

Susie’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, fierce love for her family, quiet strength through adversity, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone around her. Her light continues to shine through those who knew and loved her.

May Susie’s memory bring comfort and serve as a testament to a life lived with purpose, passion, and unshakable faith. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday evening, January 23, 2026, 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with 1:00 PM gathering and 2:00 PM service at Immanuel Church, 9511 West Broadway Avenue, Forest Lake.