Susan Lynn Hoenk
Thursday, February 25, 1954
Date of Death:
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Age:
71 years old
Thursday, February 25, 1954
Date of Death:
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Age:
71 years old
Thursday, February 25, 1954
Date of Death:
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Age:
71 years old
Susan Lynn Hoenk
Susan “Sue” Lynn Hoenk, 71 passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025 at her home in Byron, MN, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Sue was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
Sue was born February 25, 1954 in Tracy, MN to Lando “Smokey” and Dorothy Willems. Sue grew up in Olivia, MN and after graduating high school, she moved to Rochester, MN to pursue training as a medical secretary at Rochester Community and Technical College. It was there that she met her husband and love of her life, Steve Hoenk.
Sue had a long career in medical administrative support and retired in 2016, following 31 years of service at Mayo Clinic. She was a devoted member and volunteer of Christ Lutheran Church in Byron. In her free time, she enjoyed cross-stitching, playing card games and putting puzzles together. She found great comfort in her pet dogs and loved bicycles, watching clouds and the occasional visit to Treasure Island Casino. During the summer months, Sue and Steve enjoyed relaxing at their lake place near Elysian, MN. She was an avid baker and never missed an opportunity to bring a delicious dessert to a family gathering. Sue was also incredibly thoughtful, always sending cards and gifts to celebrate birthdays, seasons and holidays.
Sue is survived by her husband of 51 years; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Chris Hoenk of Eagan and Ben Hoenk (Megen) of Minneapolis, as well as her grandson, Wynn; her brother, Jim Willems of Chaska; and many nieces and nephews.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents Smokey and Dorothy Willems, her sisters Nancy Hinrichs and Mary Ryan and her beloved Miniature Schnauzers Greta and Maddy.
Sue will be honored in a celebration of life on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Christ Lutheran Church (201 Frontage Rd NW, Byron, MN 55920). Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with the celebration of life following immediately after.
The Hoenk family would like to say a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of both the Mayo Clinic Oncology and Hospice departments for their excellent care throughout Sue’s second battle with cancer. Sue was given an amazing 27 years of life following treatment at Mayo Clinic for breast cancer in 1997.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Camp Companion [https://www.campcompanion.
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The family of Susan Lynn Hoenk has received the following condolences.
Sue was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church, helping whenever she was needed. As a member of the JOY CLUB at CLC, we will miss her greatly. The smile was a welcome to the group as well as her delicious cupcakes and strawberry dessert. We send prayers and condolences to Steve and the family. Sue will be missed by all who knew her. God Bless.
Sue will be missed by everyone who knew her. She always had a smile on her face, a great sense of humor, and was nice to everyone. We enjoyed being in game club with her and Steve, lots of fun and laughs that we will treasure forever! You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
My deepest condolences go out to the Hoenk family. I've been blessed to work with Ben for the last few years, and he's doing a great job of carrying on his mother's legacy. I am very impressed by Mrs. Susan's background and can see how it's had a positive impact on Ben. I'll be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers as you adapt to life without your matriarch. May God bless you all!