Susan Michels

Susan M. Michels, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at EverTrue Lutheran Hillside Village in Peoria, Illinois.

She was born on November 21, 1949, in Madison, Illinois. A gifted learner with a deep curiosity about the world, Susan graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, with a focus in Psychology and English. Throughout her life, Susan shared her talents by working in finance and as a teacher. She also served as a consultant on several books and textbooks in the fields of development, psychology and finance.

A lifelong learner and adventurer, Susan was also a world traveler who embraced new experiences, cultures and fine art. She spent much of her life in Chicago, a city she proudly called home, before relocating to Peoria in 2024.

Susan will be remembered for her wit, humor, intelligence, and charm, which leaves a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved family members John Michels, Margaret Michels, David Michels, Mildred Burgess, and Marcia Cherney.

She is survived by her sister-in-law Anita (David) Michels; her nephews, Justin (Talena, Silas, and Sawyer) Michels, Chad (Katie, Vivienne, and Hendrix) Michels, Robert Burgess and Norman Burgess; Her devoted cousin, Paula Augsutad; Her best friend and closest confidant, Mary Mirakian; and many other relatives and friends who will deeply miss her.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Henderson Funeral Home in Pekin,

Memorial contributions may be made to EverTrue Lutheran Hillside Village, The Humane Society or to the Alzheimer’s Association in Susan’s memory.