Sue Dettman, age 73, of Sac City, IA, fell asleep in the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.
Susan “Sue” Kae Possehn was born on July 24, 1953, in Carroll, IA, to parents Earl and Hazel Irene (Pischel) Possehn. From a very early age, Sue learned that each day was a gift from God. Her family attended Grace Bible Church in Glidden, IA, and later Sue and her sister attended Raccoon River Bible Camp, where Sue learned more about Jesus and His love for everyone. Her faith would remain an important and guiding part in her life.
Sue was baptized on June 6, 1966, by Rev. Young at the Presbyterian Church in Lytton, IA. It was there, on May 3, 1969, that Sue married her sweetheart, Mickey William Dettman, with Rev. Young officiating.
Sue and Mickey were blessed with two sons, Mitchell and Mike. Their home and hearts were also opened for a time to their niece and nephews, Michael, Melissa, and Marty. Family was at the center of Sue’s life, and some of her greatest joy came from simply being present for the people she loved.
Sue attended kindergarten in Glidden and attended schools in Atlantic, Lake City, Lytton, and Fort Dodge, IA. Throughout her working years, Sue held many different positions and was never afraid of hard work. She worked at Quinn Popcorn Company and the Lakewood Ballroom in Lake View. For 23 years, she worked as a custodian for the Sac City Community School District, where she became a familiar face to generations of students, teachers, and staff. She also worked at the public library, rec center, city office, Farm Bureau, and helped teachers with additional work on the side.
Sue’s faith continued to grow throughout her life. After attending classes at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church with Rev. C. Pannier, she confessed her faith and was confirmed on September 20, 1970. She became an active and devoted member of the church, serving as a Sunday school teacher, providing snacks for Vacation Bible School, and helping with many funeral luncheons and other church events. Sue generously gave her time and talents through Ladies Aid, serving in several leadership roles including vice president, president, and co-president. She also served on the altar, evangelism, and Prayer Partners committees. Each of these roles was meaningful to Sue and gave her another opportunity to live out the faith that had been planted in her heart as a young girl.
When her boys were young, the family attended a KISS concert together, creating a memory Sue always treasured. As the years went on, she continued to enjoy concerts and special events, often alongside Marsha and Gwen. Weekends spent with her grandchildren were especially precious, as were shopping trips with her granddaughter, Madi. One particularly exciting memory for Sue was watching her nephew, Michael, compete in—and win—a race in New York.
Sue and Mickey also enjoyed trips with the Friendship Club, their birthday clubs, and the many wonderful times shared with their close friends. Those friendships meant a great deal to Sue, and she treasured the laughter, travels, celebrations, and everyday moments they shared together.
Sue rarely missed an opportunity to support her children and grandchildren. Over the years, she proudly watched from the sidelines and stands as they participated in T-ball, baseball, slow-pitch softball, football, wrestling, taekwondo, volleyball, soccer, horseshoes, dance, music programs, and countless other activities. High school and college graduations were especially proud moments for her.
For Sue, life was made meaningful by faith, family, friendship, and being there for others. She found happiness in watching those she loved grow and succeed, celebrating their milestones, traveling with friends, serving her church and community, and simply spending time with the people who meant the most to her. She loved sending cards to friends for every event. Through all the different seasons of her life, Sue continued to hold close the lesson she had learned so many years ago—that every day truly is a gift from God.
Although Sue’s body endured many physical challenges throughout her life, her attitude never reflected the hardships she faced. She remained thankful to God for the life she had, regardless of her physical limitations. Her gratitude, faith, joy, and strength were an example to everyone who knew her. Sue was truly someone we should all aspire to be like.
Those left to cherish her memory include her two sons, Mitch Dettman of Sac City, IA, and Mike (Tawney) Dettman of Carroll, IA; her most treasured grandchildren: Koty (Addie), Morgan, Madi, Vin, Enzo, and Knox; great-grandchildren Silas and Shiloh Johnson; siblings: Patricia Hayes, Earl Jr (Rosemary) Possehn, Barb Janssen, Marianne Aden, and Paul (Terri) Possehn; brothers-in-law Marlin (Karla) Dettman, Marvin (Betsy) Dettman, and Mark (Kathy) Dettman; sister-in-law Marsha Dettman (Gwen Martin); and many nieces and nephews who were all very precious to her.
Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Mickey Dettman (2022); parents Earl and Irene Possehn; daughter-in-law Melissa Dettman; brothers-in-law Robert Janssen, Doug Aden, and Bob Hayes.