Susan Ann Schmelzer

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Susan “Sue” Ann Schmelzer, 76, passed away on June 17, 2025, at UW Health/Carbone Cancer Center, with her family by her side. Sue’s life is marked by her infectious spirit and her devotion to family, friends, work and community.

 She was born in Madison, WI on May 10, 1949, to Thomas and Virginia Schmelzer, the oldest of seven children. She grew up on Merlham Dr., part of a close-knit neighborhood filled with post-war families. She attended Our Lady Queen of Peace grade school and graduated from Edgewood High School in 1967. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from Cardinal Stritch University.

 Sue’s career spanned both public service and the credit union industry. Sue began her extensive professional career in the Financial Services Industry at CUNA Credit Union in Madison, WI as Manager of Planning Services. Several key leadership positions followed: Senior Director, Credit Union Development & Director of Congressional Issues with the Michigan Credit Union in Novi, MI; Director, Government & Public Affairs with Kansas Credit Association in Wichita, KS;CEO with Vulcan Community Credit, Wichita, KS; and Vice President, Central Star Credit Union, Wichita KS.

 Prior to her work with credit unions, Sue held positions with the Wisconsin Court of Appeals and the Office of the Majority Leader of the Wisconsin Senate at the Capitol in Madison, WI. Sue also gave back to her communities through volunteer service. She served on the board of NAMI Dane County, supporting mental health advocacy and education, and on the board of The Arc of Sedgwick County in Wichita, Kansas, promoting inclusion and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her commitment to these causes reflected her compassion and belief in the dignity of every person.

 Outside of work, Sue had a great eye for design and making spaces beautiful. She enjoyed learning upholstery, refinishing furniture, and giving new life to old pieces that made her homes warm and welcoming. After her retirement she ran her own business called The Upcycled Cellar, selling repurposed furniture. She also had a green thumb—her houseplants thrived, and her yard was full of colorful blooms.

 Sue welcomed motherhood later in her life and loved her son Levi. She treasured time with her granddaughters, Lily and Lexi – whether it was sharing school activities, shopping, hanging out, or sharing holidays – they were her joy.

 Sue cherished the friendships she built across the country throughout her life, whether longtime classmates and coworkers or relationships nurtured later in her life. These relationships brought her joy and support through life’s ups and downs.

 Sue is survived by her son, Levi Cranmer, and granddaughters, Lexi and Lily. She is also survived by her siblings: Thomas Schmelzer (Carly), James Schmelzer, Kathy Lipke (Robert), Jean Schukei, Mary Schmelzer (William Grout), and Julie Dunn (Robert), along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

 On Thursday July 17, the family will host a Visitation at 10-11:00 a.m., Funeral Services at 11:00a.m. and a Luncheon to follow, at Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI 53562. The funeral service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. 

 Sue and her family were deeply grateful for the compassionate care and support of Dr. Toby Campbell, Mary Beth Henry, Dr. Howard Bailey, and the team at UW Health/Carbone Cancer Center, who shared their special gifts of humor, professionalism, empathy, and hope.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sue’s name to Edgewood High School or UW Health Carbone Cancer Center .

We welcome you to share your thoughts and memories on Susan's tribute wall.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434