Susan Lynn McKee , beloved mother, friend, and devoted farmer, passed away after a long illness on October 15, 2024, in Rockford, IL. She was born on February 21, 1955, in Freeport, IL, to Duane and Kay (Lyden) Broshous.

Sue graduated from Stockton High School in 1973 and married her high school sweetheart, Brian McKee, on December 18, 1971. Together, they cultivated a life full of love and hard work on their farm, where they raised dairy cows, hogs, horses, rabbits, and an array of animals, including cats, dogs, and yes, even raccoons. Her compassion for animals was evident as she hand-raised many of them, showcasing her nurturing spirit.

For 20 years, Sue worked as a patient service representative at the FHN OB Clinic. In addition to her professional and farming endeavors, she was actively involved in her community. She was a member of the Greenvale Neighborhood Club, Freeport Western Riders, and the Rock River Valley Horse and Pony Exhibitors Association. She volunteered for Safe Haven, an animal rescue. She also served as an election judge and was a mentor to many, always willing to lend a helping hand.

Sue cherished her time spent with family and friends, creating lasting memories while farming and enjoying her animals. Known for her love of jewelry, she had a special bracelet for every occasion. Her family fondly remembers her "grandma meals," particularly her famous cheesy hashbrowns, which no one could replicate.

Thoughtful, independent, and fierce, Sue found joy in surprising others with amazing gifts and experiences. She was adventurous, traveling to new places and even water skiing just last year. Her spirit of adventure and zest for life will be deeply missed.

Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Brian, who passed away on August 8, 2005, as well as her parents, Duane and Kay Broshous; her parents-in-law, Cletus and Lila McKee; brothers-in-law, Lloyd and Allen McKee; sisters-in-law Lynette McKee and Carol Tucker; and Uncle Bill Lingle.

She is survived by her daughters, JoAnn (Jeff) Eden and Jennifer (Seth) Degnan; grandchildren Jamie (Nick) Ege and Justin Eden; sisters Peggy Drane, Kathy Broshous, and Laura Broshous; Paul Drane, sister-in-law Maureen McKee; nieces Leslie Drane, Ally Broshous, and Chloe Broshous; nephew Eric (Jordan) Drane; and great aunts Ardale (Marlow) Townsend and Gayle Lingle, and best friend Jan Zarn and grand-nieces Nora and Finley Drane.

Visitation will be held from 9 AM to 11 AM on Saturday, October 19, followed by the funeral service at 11 AM at Christ Lutheran Church in Stockton, IL.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.