Suzanne Armstrong Beutler was born in Cincinnati on October 23, 1930, to Robert Morrell Armstrong and Marguerite (Pierson) Armstrong. She joined the saints in eternal life on January 26, 2026. Following a happy childhood and two years of college, Suzanne—or Sue as she was universally called–was wed to Robert Ellsworth Ireland in 1950; two boys were born into this marriage, Richard (Gina) and Mark (Mary). After divorcing in 1965, Sue remarried in 1969 to her beloved husband Fred Beutler whose three children, Arthur (Lynn), Kathryn (Keith) Peterson, and Mike (Yetunde) Sue readily bonded with. Sue also leaves behind six grandchildren and five great‑grandchildren.
In 1966 Sue earned a master’s degree at the University of Michigan and became a teacher in the Ann Arbor Public Schools after her divorce. Several times she was named an “outstanding teacher” by the school trustees. While continuing to teach, she earned a Ph.D. in 1974 in educational psychology, again at the University of Michigan. This led her to do classroom research, which resulted in publications and conference presentations. Additionally, she taught several courses at the university level.
Sue was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor for almost seventy years, singing in the Chancel Choir almost since joining the Church and playing the trumpet in the church orchestra. She was a vigorous advocate for social justice, served as a Deacon for eight years, and been a member of Session.
Following her retirement after thirty years of teaching, Sue returned to the University to study art, her first love. Equipped with a bachelor’s and master’s degree (2003) in oil painting, she exhibited her paintings widely, and for many years her booth was a feature at the annual Ann Arbor Street Art Fair. If that wasn’t enough, Sue resumed playing the trumpet and was a faithful member of two community bands.
A high point in her retirement was joining Rotary, which offered new opportunities for service. She was active in the STRIVE program, successfully mentoring a number of scholarship winners, and being fully involved in its activities. She participated in the International Humanitarian Projects Committee, and undertook visits to projects in Brazil, Mexico, India and Guatemala. Her Rotary service was recognized with a Distinguished Service Award in 2015, and Sue also earned several Paul Harris awards. Until she moved to the retirement home, she scarcely missed a weekly or committee meeting.
Sue’s sunny disposition, ready intelligence, and caring temperament will be greatly missed by her husband of over fifty-seven years, her descendants, her friends, and her admirers. A memorial service for Sue will be held at a later date still to be determined.
Obituary by Fred Beutler.
