Susan L. Rietjens

Susan L. Rietjens of Waukesha passed away surrounded by the love and comfort of her family on Monday, April 21, 2025 at the age of 76. She was born on January 13, 1949, in Waukesha, the daughter of Glen and Phyllis (Merryfield) Moldenhauer.

On June 29, 1968, Susan married Ronald Rietjens, with whom she shared a beautiful life filled with love and adventures. Together, they enjoyed many camping trips, particularly at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, where they created cherished memories with their grandchildren. Susan had a special love for Christmas, delighting in the joys of shopping for her grandchildren, meticulously setting up her Christmas village, and baking festive cookies. An accomplished cook, she will be remembered for her famous zucchini bread, homemade fudge, and pecans.

Professionally, Susan dedicated many years to her role in the stock room at GE Healthcare. A proud 37-year cancer survivor following her leukemia diagnosis in 1988, she exemplified resilience and generosity, always placing the needs of others before her own. Susan will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, an exceptional mother, and an amazing grandmother.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 57 years, Ronald; their two daughters, Shelley (Derek) Effert and Jennifer Rietjens (Stewart Stevens); and her cherished grandchildren, Vaughn Effert, Aaron Effert, Devin Rietjens, and Tyler Rom. Susan is also survived by her siblings, Dan (Jane) Moldenhauer, Sheri (Mark) Jung, and Sandi (Kelly) Petrie, along with nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her treasured granddaughter, Miranda Effert.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until the memorial service at 12:00 p.m. at Randle-Dable-Brisk Funeral Home, located at 1110 S. Grand Avenue, Waukesha. A private interment will take place at a later date at Prairie Home Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Susan’s name may be made to Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, available at https://wish.org/wisconsin/donate or by mail at 11020 West Plank Court Suite 200, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.