MADISON - Susan M. Kraus, age 70, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Renaissance Senior Living. She was born on October 18, 1954, in Oak Park, Ill., the daughter of William and Janet (Semanek) Schemmel.

Susan graduated from Edgewood High School in 1973 and the University of Minnesota in 1978. Her 40+ year career as a dental hygienist concluded with Dr. Lubet and Associates, which was acquired by Middleton Family Dental, from which she retired in 2022.

Susan lived life to the fullest, cherishing her time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed writing and had a passion for journalism. While raising her children, Susan experienced a spiritual awakening. She devoted her time to learning more about Buddhism, meditation, crystals, and self-enlightenment, including extended travel itineraries to India to learn more. Her wealth of knowledge was unmatched by her unwavering commitment.

Susan was also very passionate about helping children, especially those with learning disabilities. In 1994, she received the Parent of the Year award from the Orton Dyslexia Association for her work in the Parent Education Project (PEP). She then went on to aid school boards throughout Wisconsin, educating them on how to support the children’s learning needs and helping many children along the way.

As the eldest of ten children, and the only daughter, Susan was inevitably a massive sports fan, regularly known as the biggest supporter of her children at their sporting events. She also maintained a life-long love of college sports, particularly college basketball. Even as she approached her last days, she was still keeping close tabs on the Badgers and all their rivals.

Susan’s love for life was apparent to everyone who knew her, but with no doubt, her greatest joy was spending time with her family and her grandchildren.

Susan is survived by her loving children, Zachary (Brooke) Kraus, Abby (Jason) Perry and Molly Heberlein; five grandchildren, Vincent Heberlein, Ronan, Finnley, Nyall and Decklin Perry; and seven brothers, Scott (Kim), John, James (Susan), Judd (Lisa), Matthew, Mark (Jennifer Harrington) and Luke (Jonathan Shapiro). She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Janet; and brothers, Peter and Stephen Schemmel.

A private celebration of life will occur with family and friends at a later date. Notifications will be made via social media.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Susan Kraus

October 18, 1954 - January 04, 2025

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