Sue Ellen Bontrager, 85, of White Pigeon, Michigan, passed away on September 23, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

She was born on February 17, 1941, in Sturgis, Michigan, to a community and a family that would shape the caring, devoted life she lived. Sue carried herself with quiet strength, a warm heart, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people around her. Those who knew her will remember her as a woman of integrity, kindness, and someone who gave generously of her time and talents in service to others.

Sue was a long time and faithful employee for the White Pigeon School and the White Pigeon Township Office. Through her years of work, she became a familiar and trusted face. She was known for her dependability, her strong work ethic, and her willingness to help wherever she was needed. She took pride in doing her work well and in contributing to the daily life of the community she loved. Her service reflected a genuine care for the people and institutions around her.

Her involvement in the community extended far beyond her employment. Sue served as a member of the White Pigeon Village Council and the White Pigeon School Board and the White Pigeon Township Library Board where she offered thoughtful leadership and a sincere dedication to the betterment of the village and its schools. Even with these commitments, she still found time to help with White Pigeon sports, showing her support for local youth and her appreciation for the activities that brought the community together and as an avid reader, she always found time for a good book.

Family was an important part of Sue’s life, and she treasured the people closest to her. She is survived by her sons, Tim Bontrager and Todd Bontrager and his wife, Malgorzata, her daughter-in-law, Maureen Bontrager as well as five grandchildren, Grace, Brendan, Joseph, Allison, and Shane. She also leaves behind several extended relatives who will carry forward her memory with love and gratitude.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Omer Bontrager on June 17, 2019; her son, Greg Bontrager; her sisters, Shirley Lutz and Sally Stevens; her parents, Owen and Maxine (VanDyke) Powers.

Sue’s life was one marked by dedication to others, loyalty to her community, and love for her family. She gave of herself in ways both seen and unseen, and her influence will remain in the many lives she touched. Her years of work, her civic involvement, and her support of local youth all stand as a lasting tribute to the kind of person she was.

Those who knew Sue will remember her with affection and respect. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved, the community she served, and the many memories she leaves behind.

Funeral services to honor Sue will be held at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at the Farrand Funeral Home, 300 N. Kalamazoo St., White Pigeon, MI 49099 with Sue’s family greeting relatives and friends from 11:00 am until the time of services.

Interment will follow at the White Pigeon Township Cemetery.

Sue’s family welcomes messages and memories in their online guestbook at www.farrandfuneralhome.com.