Sue Ann Drenkhahn

Sue Ann Drenkhahn, a cherished educator and beloved member of the Holland, Michigan community, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, in Holland, MI. Born on May 7, 1952, in Three Bridges, New Jersey, Sue’s life was a testament to her enduring commitment to children, nature, and faith.

A proud graduate of Hunterdon Central High School’s class of 1970, Sue went on to pursue higher education at Hope College in Holland, MI. After college, she made Holland her home, living there for most of her life and deeply embedding herself in the community she loved. Her career was marked by over 40 years as an elementary school teacher in Michigan, where she devoted herself primarily to teaching first and second grade students. Sue’s dedication to early childhood education helped shape countless young minds and left an indelible mark on those fortunate to be in her classrooms.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sue’s heart extended to special needs children, whom she supported through her involvement with CranHill Ranch, a Christian summer camp and retreat center focused on building relationships, strengthening families, and inspiring personal transformation in the image of Christ. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life; she was an active member of Christ Memorial Church, where she contributed as a "Tulip Time" dancer and generously tutored younger children, further exemplifying her nurturing spirit and commitment to community service.

Sue’s spirit of adventure took her to magnificent places such as the Galapagos Islands, South Africa, and Yellowstone National Park. She found immense joy in the outdoors, often spending time hiking at Isle Royale National Park and Seney National Wildlife Refuge in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. A passionate bird watcher and lover of nature’s quiet beauty, she also savored intellectual pursuits such as solving puzzles—including jigsaw puzzles, Wordle, and Sudoku—and enjoyed playing card games like Airplane Rummy and "Hand and Foot." Her fondness for cats was well-known, especially for her most recent feline companion, Cookie. Additionally, she delighted in collecting and cherishing Kliban Cat calendars, reflecting her unique personality and warmth.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Emma Jane (Allegar) Drenkhahn; her brother, Edward Drenkhahn; her aunt, Doris Halstead; and several cousins. She is survived by her niece, Elizabeth Drenkhahn of Nazareth, Pennsylvania; great-niece, Emma Tyler; and her uncle, Charles Allegar of Clover Hill, New Jersey.

Services are being planned for a later date. Please check this webpage for further developments.

Arrangements are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St., Flemington NJ 08822.  For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com. 

Throughout her life, Sue Ann Drenkhahn exemplified kindness, devotion, and a love for life that touched many. Her legacy continues in the lives of the children she taught, the community she served, and the family who cherished her. Her spirit will be remembered with profound respect and affection by all who knew her.