Obit: Kolbrak, Suzanne June (1924 – 2009)
Contact: Dolores

Surnames: Kolbrak, Bates, Helbling, McCullough, Ranger, Peterson, Kloss

----Source: Banner Journal (Black River Falls, Jackson Co., WI.) February 4, 2009

Kolbrak, Suzanne June (6 June 1924 – 25 January 2009)

Suzanne June (Helbling) Kolbrak went to be with the Lord Jan. 25, 2009.

Suzanne was born June 6, 1924, to Della (Bates) and Fred Helbling. She was raised in Merrillan, the youngest of seven siblings. As the much younger sister of her family, she naturally filled the role of nurturing caregiver.

Suzanne met and married Kenneth Kolbrak, also of Merrillan, June 5, 1943. They started their fresh marriage separated while Ken served his time in the U. S. Navy, defending the nation during World War II. The marriage grew through loving letters exchanged during those first years; letters still saved all these years.

Suzanne and Kenneth were blessed to have one son, Kent, and one daughter, Karen. They chose to raise their children in Milwaukee.

She enjoyed those years being a fantastic cook, mother, wife and homemaker. Once the children were grown and beginning their lives, Kenneth and Suzanne took an opportunity to move back home to Merrillan and own a piece of Wisconsin History. They owned and operated Ken and Sue’s Bar in Merrillan for 33 years. Their establishment was known as the oldest, continuously operating tavern in Wisconsin. Their many loyal patrons were often an extension of family.

Suzanne was able to enjoy her last 10 years retired and living next door to her daughter in Roseburg, OR. She was able to maintain her health, humor and nurturing ways her entire life.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Karen McCullough of Roseburg, OR; her grandsons Kenneth Kolbrak and Richard Kolbrak; granddaughters Jennifer Ranger and Shannon Kolbrak; as well as many great-grandchildren and dear friends.

She is dearly missed by two special nieces, Judy Peterson of Black River Falls and Sue Ann Kloss of Minnesota.

Suzanne was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth (1991); son Kent (1999); and grandson Kevin (2007).

Suzanne’s memorial service is being held in Roseburg, OR. To all her dear friends and family in the Midwest, extend a warm prayer for her safe passage to heaven.