SUZANNE E. PINGEL

Suzanne E. (Homan) Pingel passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, at Bloom at Willow Senior Living in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the age of 81.

Born on March 7, 1944, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Suzanne was the beloved daughter of Emery and Minnie Homan. She graduated from Portage Central High School in 1962 before attending Northwood University in Midland, Michigan, where she studied liberal arts, played the flute, and cheered on the Timberwolves as a member of the cheerleading squad.

In 1969, Suzanne married the love of her life, Bernard Pingel, whom she met while working at Crawford & Company. Together, they built a beautiful life, first in Portage, Michigan, and later in Alpena, where Suzanne thrived in the northern lifestyle. She formed lifelong friendships, continued her studies at Alpena Community College, and enjoyed outdoor activities–especially cross-country skiing. Her faith was central to her life, and she was an active member and dedicated volunteer at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

In 1994, Suzanne and Bernard relocated to Indianapolis, where she found great pride and fulfillment in her work as a finance administrator for Pike Township.

She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Bernard; her son, Terry (TJ), and daughter-in-law, Melissa; her daughter, Kathryn; and her cherished grandsons, Kalston, Andrew, Ryan, and Tommy. She also leaves behind her dear brother, Steve, and his wife, Karen, sister, Gwen, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in passing by her parents, and brothers, Jack and Gary.

Suzanne will be laid to rest at Mount Ever Rest Memorial Park in Kalamazoo. A celebration of her life will be held in the spring, where family and friends will gather to honor the love, kindness, and joy she brought into their lives.

She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.