Susan Elizabeth Rose

Susan Elizabeth Rose, 61, Lawrence, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly July 30, 2011.

Born to Robert and Dorothy (Glaettli) Rose in Madison, Wisconsin, on November 5, 1949, Susan was the fourth of seven children. She grew up in Lenexa, Kansas, graduating from Shawnee Mission West High School in 1967. After attending Kansas State University for two years, Susan graduated from Research Hospital School of Nursing in 1972. For many years, she was an obstetrics nurse in the area. The families she worked with often spoke of her compassion and calm. By far, her most grateful patient is daughter Elizabeth (Libby) Sims. Susan helped in the delivery of Libby’s two children.

Following her retirement from nursing, Susan continued working, most recently for the Kansas Turnpike Authority in Lawrence. Susan was passionate about reading, gardening, and travel. Her first trip abroad was backpacking through Europe with her sister Barbara. She frequently joined family members to explore the United States, including annual trips to Camp Walden in Michigan with sister Peggy, and to the Walnut Valley Music Festival in Winfield, Kansas. Her most recent trip abroad was to Budapest, Vienna, and Venice with daughter Aubrey Vaughn.

Throughout her life, Susan was dedicated to helping those in need of a supporting voice, from championing women’s rights to volunteering at the Headquarters Counseling Center in Lawrence. She is lovingly remembered for her extraordinary love and big heart, and for the aid she provided to the causes and people she sought to help.

Susan is preceded in death by her father Robert Jay Rose, sister Barbara Rose Hilton, and husband Charles Mixon. Survivors include two daughters Aubrey Vaughn and Libby (Roy) Sims; grandchildren Emma and Roy Sims; mother Dorothy Rose; brothers John (Verna), Van (Judy) , Scott, Jim (Patty) , and sister Peggy; and numerous nieces and nephews, and great nieces and great nephews.

The family suggests memorials to the Headquarters Counseling Center, 211 E. 8th, Suite C, Lawrence, Kansas, 66044.

Memorial Celebration

At Susan’s request, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, August 5, 2011, at the Lenexa United Methodist Church, 9138 Caenen Lake Road, Lenexa. Dress casual and share your fond memories.