WAKEFIELD, Mich. – Susan Irene (nee Korpi) Dalbec, 79, of Wakefield, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, at Commonwealth Senior Living in Grand Rapids.

Sue was born on Jan. 30, 1945, in Wakefield, a daughter of Reino Edwin and Elizabeth Irene (Mustapaa) Korpi. She graduated from Wakefield High School.

On Sept. 2, 2002, Sue married David Charles "Dave" Dalbec in Bessemer. She and Dave had many special years together.

Sue worked as a cook at the Gogebic Medical Care Facility in Wakefield.

She was an avid gardener, growing beautiful flowers and sharing them with her sister, Cecile. She and Dave were talented dancers and enjoyed many events. Sue took pleasure wearing unique hats and sparkling jewelry. At one time, Dave was an active member of the Wakefield American Legion Geroux Post 11, and Sue was a supporting member to its auxiliary. She had a great sense of humor and loved to make people smile.

One of Sue's favorite holidays was Christmas. She took pride decorating her home and often times would leave decorations up all year round.

Sue is survived by a son, Eric (Maggie) Niemi, Grand Rapids; a daughter, Sarah (Tim) Krueger, Alpena; six grandchildren, Shane, Chelsie, Alex, Ethan, Mikayle and Christopher; a brother, Russell Korpi, Wakefield; and other loving relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dave, on June 26, 2023; a sister, Cecile Kemppi; and her sister-in-law, Karen Korpi.

The family is honoring her life in a private graveside service at the Lakeside Cemetery in Wakefield. The Rev. Brittany Barkus, pastor of All Saints Lutheran Church in Wakefield, will officiate.

A celebration of Sue's life will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, with food and refreshments from 2 to 4 p.m., and music beginning at 4 p.m., at the American Legion Geroux Post 11, 605 River St., in Wakefield.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.