Suzanne Callaghan

Suzanne Kimberly Callaghan (Sue), a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend to many, passed away at home on December 4th, 2025 at the age of 70. Sue is survived by her brothers, Tim, Pat, and Chuck Callaghan; her daughters, Lisa Nelson, Erin Taylor, and Kattie Horvath; and her five grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents, Dorothy Callaghan and Richard Callaghan.

Sue was born on August 18th, 1955 in Aurora, Illinois to Dorothy and Richard Callaghan. She grew up as the only sister with her three brothers. Growing up, she was vibrant, highly spirited, and beloved by many friends. In 1973, she graduated from West Aurora High School, getting married to Kalman Horvath later that year in the fall. The following year, Sue's mother passed away. Her father passed away three years later. Despite these challenges, Sue would go on to attend classes at Waubonsee Community College, work at Copley Hospital as a med tech, become a dental assistant, and work with children in daycare. Sue was known for being driven and highly motivated, always passionate about the work she did and the people she helped. She would also have and raise her three children—Lisa, Erin, and Kattie—her proudest achievement and the most important part of her life. Her children remember how she made anything into a celebration, always looking for the best in everything. In her early twenties, Sue would also take in her youngest brother, Chuck, while he was a teenager. After he moved out, she later moved to Colorado with her family in 1991. Once she was in Colorado, she would continue working in the dental field by becoming an oral surgery assistant, and buy her own home in 1996 before becoming a mental health worker. As a grandmother, she enjoyed doing crafts and playing games with her grandkids. She later retired, dedicated to spending time with her dogs and family to whom she spent her life devoted.

Sue’s family recalls countless heartfelt memories with her. Her daughters Lisa and Erin hold fond memories of birthdays spent at hot springs, the effort she put into decorations for every birthday and special occasion, and listening to the Beatles birthday song. Sue’s youngest daughter, Kattie, reflects on the privilege of her mother being her best friend. Sue's grandkids remember her wittiness and sense of humor, their late-night talks with her, and climbing on the roof to stargaze together. One remembers how she turned her house into a summer vacation in the middle of winter—turning up the heater and drinking smoothies—yet another instance of her making the best of what she had in the moment to create joy with those she loved. Sue loved to cook and be in her kitchen, and was a friend to every animal, from dogs to squirrels to raccoons. She touched many hearts, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her. A celebration of life will be held with close loved ones at a later date.