Nikolai, Susan S., Fortified with the Sacraments of the Holy Mother Church, Sue passed away on November 11, 2022, after a long illness. She was preceded in death by her parents, Julian A. and Louisa H. Shannon, and her grandson, Matthew.
Born in 1938 in Beardstown, IL, she is survived by her beloved husband of 61 years, Robert J , their children Cathy (Jim Marks), Teresa, Peggy (Rick Kuhlman), David (Kate), and Philip (Maggie), fourteen grandchildren (Maureen [D.J. Dube], Michael [Sarah] Atkins, Alex and Tori Marks, Drew [Mary], Ben, Max, and Emma Nikolai, Katie and Sarah Kuhlman, Emily and Mia Buchholz, and Jack and Sam Nikolai), five great-grandsons (J.J., Brooks, and Crew Dube, and Leo and Luca Atkins), her brother Jim (Marcy), her brother-in-law John (Mary Fran), and several nieces and nephews.
Sue was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She also loved being with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, traveling and especially summers in South Haven, MI with the family.
Funeral arrangements include Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Simon the Apostle Church on Saturday, November 19th. Visitation will take place before Mass, beginning at 9 a.m. Interment will follow immediately after Mass at Resurrection Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Matthew Merlo Nikolai Memorial Scholarship Fund at CBC High School (https://www.cbchs.org/apps/pages/scholarshipgiving) would be appreciated.
Dearest Peggy & Richard,
We know that the Nikolai family will support each other at this sad time. Susan was the quintessential matriarch and truly a beloved grandmother and fortunate great grandmother. We know you will miss her. All our love and support, Kuhlmans, Krakoffs, Ruddys
Our deepest condolences for the home going of Susan Nikolai. The team at EverSports who works for David Nikolai, her son, wish to express our heartfelt sorrow for David, Kate and the entire family during this time.
Dear Dr. Nikolai: I will be out of town when Sue’s funeral takes place, but I will certainly be thinking of all of you and praying for you. I always admired your dedication to your family, and I can remember Sue as being the heart and source of joy for all of you. My deepest condolences.
Uncle Rob, Iam sorry that I could not be there. Aunt Susie was always kind. My condolences are to you and the family.
Ken
My deepest sympathy to the Nikolai and Shannon families. Susie was a good friend to us Clarks from Arenzville, and her memory is cherished. We are sorry for your loss but are confident that there is a joyous reunion going on in Heaven.