Sue Ellen Kennedy, age 87, of Zeeland, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Sue was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on May 27, 1938, to Emma and Earl Kennedy. She was known for her lifelong signature laugh and loved being the "cool" mom and fun aunt. Sue was one of nine in the ironically witty Kennedy clan. She was also a caring grandmother and proud to be known as the "Cat Lady." Her primary occupation was Assistant Office Manager and Accountant, but Sue also served as a teacher’s aide at West Ottawa in the 70’s. She loved to read, and her family's favorite place on earth was the family cottage near Big Star Lake, where they shared many great times with family and friends over the years. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Hartsock; brother, Tom; sisters, Irene, Margaret, Bonnie, and Kathie. She will be deeply missed by her older brother, Chuck and Dotty Kennedy; baby brother, Dan and Lynn Kennedy; and lifelong, figuratively joined at the hip, younger sister, Nancy Kennedy; daughters, Nancy and Jim Mullins, Beth and Matt Velderman, Loretta and Andy Morrison; and favorite son, Steve and Virginia Kenemer; six grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. 

An open house to celebrate Sue’s life will be held on Thursday, June 19, from 4-6 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Jamestown) 2371 Riley St., Hudsonville. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Harbor Humane Society.