Susan W. Baldwin, 88, of Peoria, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Sue was born on October 7, 1938, in Mansfield, Ohio, to Norman L. and Martha C. Wolfe. Athletic and active from a young age, she attended Kent State University, where she was a member of Delta Gamma sorority, played field hockey, and met her beloved husband, David W. Baldwin. The two were married in Mansfield, Ohio, on August 4, 1962, beginning a marriage filled with love, family, and friendships that would endure for generations.

Their years at Kent State brought them much more than an education and each other. They formed a remarkable circle of lifelong friends. Over the years, those friendships grew into an extended family, sharing holidays, celebrations, vacations, and countless memories. The bonds formed during those college years remained among the most treasured relationships of Sue's life.

Sue began her career teaching physical education before choosing to stay home to raise their three children, David, Jenifer, and Jeffrey. She later returned to teaching preschool, bringing her natural patience and caring spirit back to the classroom.

Sue possessed a rare and beautiful kindness. She never spoke an unkind word about anyone, never entertained gossip, and was a trusted vault for others' secrets. With her beautiful blue eyes and gentle nature, she had a way of making people feel comfortable and accepted. She was a fiercely loyal friend and a wonderfully welcoming mother-in-law, embracing those who joined her family with warmth and without judgment. Her friendships were not fleeting; they lasted a lifetime.

When Sue unexpectedly lost her husband, David, she was just 51 years old. Though her life had changed in an instant, she faced the years ahead with remarkable grace and strength. She never remarried, nor did she have any desire to. When choosing their shared headstone, Sue requested that a goose be engraved on her side. When asked why, Sue simply replied, "Geese mate for life." It was a small but beautiful reflection of a love that remained with her throughout her life.

Lake Erie always held a special place in Sue's heart. The family cottage in Huron, Ohio, passed down through generations, was the setting for countless summers and cherished memories. Following David's passing, Sue eventually made Huron her home, embracing the familiar shores of the lake, her friendships, and the community she loved. The cottage remains a treasured gathering place for her family today.

Sue enjoyed the simple pleasures of life - a good book, the warmth of the sun, and perhaps most of all, a good game of bridge. For those who knew her best, the familiar scent of Coppertone sunscreen will forever bring a smile and a memory of Sue enjoying the sunshine.

An avid bridge player, Sue took her role organizing games and bringing players together seriously enough - and with just the right touch of humor - to have business cards made declaring herself the "Match Maker." She was active in her church, volunteered to deliver Meals on Wheels, and enjoyed the friendships and connections that filled her days.

After raising her children in West Akron and Copley and then making Huron, Ohio, her home for many years, Sue eventually settled in Arizona, where she spent the last 13 years. Though her later years brought health challenges, they also revealed the extraordinary strength that had always been part of her character. Sue continued to face life's difficulties with remarkable determination and without complaint. Her spirit was resilient, her will to live extraordinary, and her kindness unwavering.

Her devotion to and pride in her family continued with her eight grandchildren, whom she supported in their activities and accomplishments, from Akron to Bexley and Phoenix. She was equally proud of her two great-granddaughters, and they all brought her such joy.

Sue's life was not defined by grand gestures or a need to be the center of attention. It was defined by the way she treated others, the loyalty she showed her friends, the love she had for her family, and the quiet grace with which she faced whatever life brought her way. She had an uncommon ability to accept people exactly as they were, to find the good in others, and to live without bitterness or judgment.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, enduring love, and a family who will forever be grateful to have called her sister, mom, aunt, Nana, and Great Nana.

Sue was preceded in death by her husband, David W. Baldwin, and her parents, Norman L. and Martha C. Wolfe.

She is survived by her three children, David L. Baldwin (Susan), Jenifer L. Johnston, and Jeffrey L. Baldwin (Shannon); her eight grandchildren, Zach, Logan, Carter, Abbey, Summer, Kate, Caroline, and Sam; her two great-granddaughters, Beau and Ellie; and her brother, Norman K. Wolfe Lt. Colonel (Tiiu Kera, Maj General), both retired USAF.

She also leaves behind a lifetime of cherished friends and extended family.

A celebration of Sue's life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared as arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Sue Baldwin to Friendly House, in support of the Campership program at Hidden Hollow Camp.

Hidden Hollow held a special place in Sue's heart and in the lives of her family. Three generations-Sue, her daughter, and her granddaughter-shared the experience of serving as camp counselors, while many of her grandchildren made wonderful memories there as campers. It was a place filled with friendship, laughter, adventure, and traditions that became a treasured part of their family history.

Through Friendly House, the parent organization of Hidden Hollow Camp, the Campership program provides financial assistance to families in Richland County, Ohio, who might otherwise be unable to send their children to camp. Supporting this program is a meaningful way to honor Sue's love for Hidden Hollow and help give other children the opportunity to experience the same joy, friendships, and lasting memories that meant so much to her family.

Donations may be made by check payable to Friendly House and mailed to:

Friendly House 380 North Mulberry Street Mansfield, OH 44902

Please include "In Memory of Susan Baldwin - Campership" in the memo line.