Susan (Hausler) Boyse

Susan Boyse, cherished wife of James and beloved mother of Amy (Tim) Partee, died peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the age of 86. She was preceded in death by a son, David, and her brother, Richard (Hausler). Sue is also survived by her brother-in-law and his wife, Richard and Cheri Boyse of Rochester Hills and by her sister-in-law and her husband, Barbara and Denny Dryer of Grand Haven.

Growing up, Sue spent summers at the family cottage in northern Michigan, where she later brought her own family for many years. Bonfires on the beach, walks in the woods, playing Sorry with the kids, cribbage with Jim – were just a few of the good memories of those days. On the water, she took pride in her ability to get up on the slalom ski and would ski around the lake singing as she went. More good times would often follow with G&T’s at dusk with close friends.

Sue was an accomplished musician, with an “ear” that supported her ability to play piano publicly from childhood on. Her ear also gave her the opportunity to take special music theory classes at the University of Michigan, where she earned her B.Mus. degree. In the process, she also managed to acquire a lasting affection for U of M football. Ask for “The Victors” and she could play it in any key you wanted.

Sue was happy to share her musical gifts with other people. As choir director, she felt deeply enriched by working with the choir to make the best music they could. Another particular pleasure was selecting appropriate choir music to support the Sundays and seasons of the church year. She was admired and respected for her talents as a choir director, serving at Bethlehem Lutheran Church and Ascension Lutheran Church, both in Grand Rapids. Letters from choir members and from the congregations renewed her enthusiasm every time she reread them.

Sue’s Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, April 24, 2025, 11:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2700 Fulton St. E, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Her family will greet friends on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 5-7 PM at the Metcalf and Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 and at the church on Thursday from 10-11 AM prior to the service. Interment to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Saginaw, Michigan.

There are so many people to thank for their loving care of Sue during her last illness that the family suggests, in lieu of flowers, contributions to Trinity Lutheran Church, Porter Hills Village, or to Emmanuel Hospice are appreciated. In addition, a few of her favorite charities included the Humane Society of W. Michigan and Feeding America West Michigan.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Susan (Hausler) Boyse, please visit our floral store.