Susan M. Maes, of Kaukauna, age 69, died late Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Sue was born in Little Chute on May 31, 1957, to the late Marvin and Margaret (Vandenberg) Vander Velden. In 1978, she married her best friend, Jeff Maes, and together they built a life centered around family while raising their two sons.

Sue was the kind of person who always made sure everyone else was taken care of first. She had a sweet, caring nature, made friends wherever she went, and had a remarkable way of remembering the little details that made people feel special. Family meant everything to Sue, and her sons will always appreciate how special it was to grow up surrounded by family.

As her family grew, becoming "Grandma" quickly became her favorite role. Her two granddaughters became the center of her world, and there wasn't much that made her happier than having them stop by for one of her home-cooked lunches, often choosing Grandma's cooking over eating with friends during open campus. Every summer, Sue looked forward to a week in Shawano, where the extended family gathered to relax, laugh, and make memories together.

Sue was a dedicated, hardworking woman who spent her career as the head cook for the Appleton Area School District. Away from work, she enjoyed cheering on the Chicago Cubs and trying her luck at the slot machines, where she somehow always seemed to come out ahead. She also had a deep love for animals and was a longtime supporter of the Humane Society. More than anything, Sue will be remembered for the way she cared for others, the home she created for her family, and the countless little ways she made people feel loved. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sue is survived by her husband of 48 years, Jeff; her two sons: Ryan (Jennifer Woodruff) and Travis (Kristy); and her two granddaughters, Natalie and Lily. She is further survived by her siblings: Dave (Joann) Vander Velden, Karen (Joe) Portman, Jim (Barb) Vander Velden, and Jeff (Dana) Vander Velden; and her siblings-in-law: Mary (Mike) Stuart, Mike (Muggs) Maes, and Dan (Diane) Maes; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In addition to her parents, Sue is preceded in death by her brother, Mike Vander Velden.

Visitation for Sue will be held at HOLY CROSS CHURCH (309 Desnoyer Street, Kaukauna) on Thursday, July 9, 2026, beginning at 12:00 Noon and concluding at 1:45 p.m. Funeral Mass will follow at 2:00 with the Rev. Sudha Sivvam officiating. Committal Holy Cross Cemetery.  To sign the guest book, please visit www.oconnellfh.com.