Susan Joy Bagaas, 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Fair Meadow Nursing Home in Fertile, MN.

Susan was born to Robert and Gladys (Amacher) Olson on November 28, 1947. She was raised in Donaldson, MN. Growing up in Donaldson, Susan had a lot of close family. She was confirmed in the St Olaf Church and attended Kennedy High School until she graduated in 1965. After graduation, Susan held various jobs, notably as a housekeeper and in the lunch program at Kennedy Public School. She loved her job at the school and loved the children there even more.

In 1968, Susan married Leonard Bagaas at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Donaldson. While their marriage eventually ended, it brought forth their only daughter, Carrie.

A lover of word searches and animals, Susan had a heart that welcomed every stray that crossed her path. Her devotion to her pets over the years was a reflection of her compassionate spirit.

Later in life, she moved to the Pioneer Memorial Care Center in Erskine, MN. She eventually transitioned to the Fair Meadow Nursing Home in Fertile, where the staff and other residents adored her.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Gladys, and her ex-husband, Leonard Bagaas. She is survived by her daughter, Carrie (Mark) Pierce; two grandsons, Colton (Mariah) and Wyatt (Libby); three great-grandchildren, Paislee, Hendrix, and Wesley; her aunt, Doretta Olson; and many first cousins she was close to.

Susan faced many challenges in her life, but she found joy in every day. Her family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of Susan's special friends, her social worker, Jill, and the many wonderful caregivers at the Erskine and Fertile nursing homes.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Donaldson.