Susan J. Bagan, age 83 of Menomonie, died Monday, March 23, 2015 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems-Eau Claire with her family by her side.

Susan was born on March 24, 1931 in Menomonie. She was the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth “Girlie” (Schumacher) Klukas. Susan grew up in the in the Milwaukee, Elk Mound and Colfax areas and graduated from Colfax High School. After high school, Susan attended Dunn County Normal in Menomonie and received her teaching degree. Susan taught in a one room school house in the Elk Mound area for several years. She married Michael Bagan on July 30, 1960 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Elk Mound. After marriage they farmed and raised their family in the Town of Menomonie. Michael passed away in 2006 and Susan continued to live on the farm, where she remained the rest of her life.

Susan was always a teacher even after her teaching career. She volunteered at the Lucas Elementary School for many years and read many books to her grandchildren. Susan also helped moved the Mabel Tainter Library to the current Menomonie Library location. She also enjoyed watching birds and drawing. Most of all, Susan loved to spend time with family and friends.

Susan is survived by her children; Christopher (Laura), Jeff, both of Menomonie, Mary (Bob) O’Donnell of Rice Lake, Julie (Marc) Harmer of Menomonie and Kathy (Arlo) Gross of Aitkin, MN, four grandchildren; Faith O’Donnell, Colleen, Harrison and Kyle Harmer, one step grandson; Jesse Gross, two sisters-in-law; Kaye Klukas of Columbia Heights, MN and Betty Anderson of Waupaca, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband; Michael and one brother; Arnold “Bud” Klukas.

Memorial Mass will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Menomonie. Rev. John Mano will officiate. Friends may call from 4-7 PM Monday at the Rhiel Funeral Home in Menomonie and one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Menomonie, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Steve Klukas March 29, 2015, at 4:06pm

   Dear Bagan Family,

   Being the oldest of the Klukas' family, I was around Susan from a baby on up. Aunt Susan gave me my first horse ride. She played endless hours with me over the years; so many grand memories. When older I helped drive tractor to haul hay on Susan and Mike's farm. I spent the summers off at my Grand Parents farm and worked on many family farms.

   Susan was the best teacher and could get me to laugh. I loved spending time on the Bagan farm. Best of people. I love them all.

   As a child of God myself, there is no doubt in my mind that when Susan wakes up, when our Savior returns, she will be with Him.

   Susan and Mike raised wonderful kids because of who they were and their strong faith.

   I m praying for God's blessings on my cousins during this difficult time in your lives. Stay the course, the good Lord will get you through it.

   I won't be present for the ceremonies but will be there in spirit.

   Love you all, God Bless
   Steve Klukas

2. Denise Wheeler Jensen March 27, 2015, at 7:26pm

   Ms. Klukas was my 4th grade teacher about 1956-57. We were in a 4th, 5th & 6th grade overflow room @ Elk Mound Schools. She was one of my favorite teachers. That year, I learned to concentrate (there was always another grade's class going on) and to outline, a skill I used throughout high school & college. She must have spent hours and hours on class plans. I didn't realize it at the time. She even hand-made a yearbook for each of us. I still have mine. Rest in peace Ms. Klukas and know how many lives you impacted.

3. TIKI EINUM March 26, 2015, at 4:12pm

   I am so sorry to hear of Susan's passing. I have fond memories or family gatherings. We had wonderful night's out for many years with fellow teachers. Tiki Einum

4. kenna La Mere March 26, 2015, at 4:08pm

   My dear friend, I am so very sorry!!!!!!!

5. Ruth Ann & Bernard Berger March 26, 2015, at 10:12am

   Susan Bagan and family

   Ruth Ann and I send our heartfelt condolences to the surviving families and sorry we won't be making any of the funeral services.

   Susan like her brother Arnold were special cousins because of their personalities and demeanor. Always happy and pleasant to be with.

   Susan I am sure the good lordwill take a liking to you and give you your rightful place.

   God Bless
   Ruth Ann & Cousin Bernie Berger

6. Angela (Klukas) Beljeski March 26, 2015, at 5:57am

   Aunt Sue had the most wonderful voice. It always made you smile. I always felt very loved when I heard her voice and would see her smile. I cannot wait to see Aunt Sue again someday in heaven! Until then may our Dear Lord Jesus and his mother Mary hold her close!
   May Jesus hold you all close during this time, my dear cousins.

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