Susan Mary (Zirkel) Stanec

Susan Mary Stanec, known to her loved ones as Sue, peacefully passed away on September 3, 2023, at the age of 84 in Divide, Colorado. Sue was born on September 2, 1939, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Albert and Erma Zirkel. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Scott Stanec.

Sue is survived by her loving husband, Donald Stanec, her daughter, Sandra Hauck, her son, Steven Stanec, and her grandchildren, Connor Riley, Grady Riley, Callahan Riley, DJ Stanec, and Emme Stanec.

Sue had a passion for education and dedicated her career to teaching and counseling. She served as a Physical Education teacher at Watson Junior High School and later as a school counselor at Janitell Junior High School. Sue's commitment to her students and colleagues made a lasting impact on the community.

Outside of her profession, Sue found solace and joy in the outdoors of Colorado. She was an avid hiker, runner, and cyclist, and she even held the esteemed position of president of the Pikes Peak Road Runners for many years. Sue's adventurous spirit and love for nature brought her closer to the beauty of the Pikes Peak region.

Sue was also deeply involved in her community. She dedicated her retirement years to volunteering for CASA in the Pikes Peak region, advocating for children in need, and also volunteered at an unplanned pregnancy center in Woodland Park. Sue's selflessness and compassion touched the lives of many.

A long-standing parishioner at Our Lady of the Woods in Woodland Park, Sue found comfort and strength in her faith. She cherished the community she found within the church and drew inspiration from her religious beliefs.

A funeral mass will be held in honor of Sue's life on Saturday, September 16, at 11am at Our Lady of the Woods in Woodland Park. The service will provide an opportunity for family and friends to come together to celebrate Sue's remarkable journey and bid her a heartfelt farewell.

Sue's memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and love for nature will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her.

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