Suzanne B. Spaeth

Spaeth, Suzanne B. MADISON Suzanne B. Spaeth passed away peacefully early Monday morning, Nov. 3, 2008, after a prolonged illness. Sue was born in Milwaukee, the daughter of Lillian and Wilfred (Bill) Spaeth. The family later moved to Grafton where Sue's love of the outdoors blossomed at their home along the river. She attended Milton College and received a graduate degree in environmental education from National Louis University. As a teacher of art and elementary education in Rockford, Ill., for more than 30 years, Sue touched the lives of many children. Sue enjoyed gardening with the artistry of the plants and flowers, and had an enduring love of animals. Her friends will remember her direct and sharp approach to life and conversations. Sue married Peter Ostlind in Santa Fe, N.M., during one of several memorable trips they made to the Southwest. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her aunt, Ellen Doyle of Cedarburg; sister-in-law, Chris (Tom) Sinsky of Dubuque, Iowa; niece, Carolyn Sinsky of Palo Alto, Calif.; nephew, David Sinsky of New York City; and a wonderful cadre of friends and former students. Sue was preceded in death by her parents. A gathering of friends and family to honor Sue will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008, in the home of Diana and Jeff Behr, 1631 National Ave., in Rockford. Guests are urged to arrive at 11:30 a.m. for a memorial at noon to be followed with food and fellowship. Memorials have been established in Sue's honor at the Wisconsin Natural Resources Foundation, P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701; and Pennies for Peace, a program for building schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan, c/o REA 4949 Harrison Ave., Rockford, IL 61108.