Susan Abbott Stierle Harris

Susan Abbott Stierle Harris, 62, of Battle Creek died at her home on Sunday, April 6, 2014.

Susan was born July 3, 1951, in Billings, Montana to George and Elizabeth (Lander) Stierle. She moved from Summit, N.J. to Battle Creek in 1969. Susan was a 1970 graduate of Lakeview High School, attended Ferris State University and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University.

Susan married Stephen R. "Big Steve" Harris in Battle Creek on October 10, 1985. She was preceded in death by Steve on February 15, 2009; and by her parents. Surviving are two daughters, Elizebeth L. Morningstar-Harris of Woodstock, MD and Sarah K. Harris of Battle Creek; a son, Matthew (Mary) Buckelew of Gorham Maine; two grandchildren, Kai Morningstar-Harris and Abigail Buckelew; her sister, Lynda Dunn of Marshall ; a brother George Stierle of Shenandoah Junction, W.V..; and countless in-laws and their families.

Susan was a person who cared for others deeply. Her kind and gentle spirit was a gift. As a person of strong faith, her purest intentions were always conveyed to others. She had a deep appreciation for the innocence of life. It embodied who she was.


In her free time, she enjoyed talking to her family , watching movies, and reading books . Above all, Susan was a collector-a collector of memories she kept close to her heart. Susan will be missed. Her memory will now, and forever, be kept as a treasure close to our hearts.


A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Holiday Inn, 12812 Harper Village Dr. 1-7P.M. Saturday, April 12th, 2014. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family. Arrangements are by the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.