SPARTA - Sue Carol Ruger, 85, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Country Terrace Assisted Living in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, following a lengthy battle with dementia.
Sue was born on March 13, 1941, at her family home in Mackinaw City, Michigan, to Charles E. Wallace and Elsie M. (Ingalls) Wallace. After spending her youth in Mackinaw City, she lived most of her life in Cheboygan, Michigan, before spending her final years closer to family in Sparta, Wisconsin.
Following a fulfilling 30-year career caring for others in a nursing home, Sue enjoyed a quiet retirement lifestyle alongside her husband and family. She never shied away from mischief, often leading the way with a playful grin. She loved playing cards and board games, and with each victory gave a joyful chuckle.
Sue gave her heart completely to those around her. She found immense happiness in helping others, gardening, decorating her home, and spending time with close friends and family. She could be found outdoors working in her flower beds and feeding the birds, always with her dog for companionship. Heaven is surely in for a treat, but her family and friends will deeply miss her pranks, warmth, and unforgettable smile.
Sue is survived by her children, Jennings Couture of Slidell, LA, Scott Couture of Mason, MI, and Michelle (Shawn) Stendel of Sparta, WI; her sister, Shirley Hull of Levering, MI; her brother, Nelson (Rose) LaPointe of Mackinaw City, MI; as well as eight grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 45 years, Joseph Ruger; her sons, Barry Couture and Timothy Couture; her sisters, Juanita Bonter, Linda Charboneau, and Norma Rice; and her brothers-in-law, James Rice, James Hull, and Calvin “Bobo” Charboneau.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Church of the Straits, 307 N. Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are preferred and may be directed to the Cheboygan County Humane Society (1536 Hackleburg Rd, Cheboygan, MI 49721). Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
