Sue Vanderbrink

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sue Vanderbrink, who left this world on June 7, 2025, at the age of 84 in Perrysburg, OH. Born on December 7, 1940, to Ralph and Ilda Key, Sue was a loving mother, sister, aunt, and cherished friend who touched the lives of many with her kindness, creativity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. 

Sue graduated from Fairmont High School in 1959 and pursued her passion for nursing at Miami Valley Hospital Nursing School, where she graduated as an RN in 1962. Throughout her career, she served with dedication and compassion, ultimately rising to the position of Senior Vice President for First American Healthcare. Her commitment to caring for others was evident in every aspect of her life.

 In 1962, she married her childhood sweetheart, Jim Vanderbrink, with whom she shared a beautiful life for 53 years until his passing. Together, they moved to Michigan in 1967 and created a loving home, raising their cherished daughters, Beth and Cindy, and instilling in them the values of compassion and community.

Sue and Jim traveled, supported Ohio State, and as country music fans, often visited Nashville with their sisters. Sue loved all things Hallmark, especially the movies, she could effortlessly name every actor and actress. She loved quilting and doing arts and crafts at family gatherings. She used her talents to create beautiful pieces for her family and friends. She took the time to send heartfelt greeting cards for every holiday and event, ensuring her loved ones felt celebrated and remembered. Christmas was a special time for Sue, filled with decorating and spending time with friends and family.

Sue is survived by her daughters, Beth (Richard) Vanderbrink and Cindy Vanderbrink; her beloved sisters, Janie (John) Decker and Nancy (Tom) Engelman; cherished in-laws Joyce and Butch Cates; close family friends Wendy Blankenship and Janice Molloy; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, and her parents. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association or to a charity of your choice in her memory. To honor Sue, friends and family are encouraged to send a greeting card continuing her tradition of kindness.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 14th, at Routsong Funeral Home, located at 2100 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering, from 10-11 AM, with a service to follow at 11 AM. Sue will then be laid to rest at David’s Cemetery.

Sue will be profoundly missed, but her warmth and compassion will continue to inspire those she leaves behind leaving a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.