Sue Ann VanBrackel, age 79, passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2019, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Born January 14, 1940, she was the daughter of the late David O. and Mary Jane (Christman) Ensign and was the sister of the late Larry O. Ensign.

Sue was the wife of the late Larry A. VanBrackel and is survived by their three children, daughters Elizabeth Bombara (Bernard), of Bethel Park, PA, Rebecca Follett (Dan), of Defiance, OH, and son John (Tina), of Defiance, OH. She was also the proud Mimi of 7 grandchildren, Philip Bombara of Boulder, CO, Renae VanBrackel of Toledo, OH, Jon Bombara of Pittsburgh, PA, Max Glassford (Darla) of Columbus, OH, Madeline Glassford of Defiance, OH, Lauren VanBrackel of Toledo, OH, and Mitchell Glassford of Defiance, OH and the proud great grandmomma of 2 adorable boys, Auggie and Jamie Glassford of Columbus, OH. She was also beyond blessed to have in her life an amazing extended family, including nieces and nephews that went above and beyond to visit and to keep her in their thoughts and prayers.

A 1958 graduate of Defiance High School, Sue was active in sports and was awarded the Linhardt-Peacock award her Senior year. She went on to attend Bowling Green State University, where she was pursuing a degree in Physical Education but left those plans behind to marry Larry on December 26, 1959.

She was blessed with many amazing lifelong group of friends who were like extra aunts and uncles to the family. A devoted mother and wife, she loved her family more than anything and would've moved the earth for them. She loved to laugh, was an eternal prankster, and was beyond loyal to those in her life. Her light was dimmed with her onset of Alzheimer's, and we know she now laughs and smiles once again!

Visitation will be held from 3 to 8 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South / Lawson-Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton St.) on Sunday, October 27, 2019, with a Vigil service at 3pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Monday, October 28, 2019 at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Fr. Randy Giesige officiating. Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery.

Donations can be directed to Great Lakes Hospice.