Susan Milbrath (née McKinney), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at the age of 78, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

A lifelong resident of Butler, Wisconsin, Susan lived a life rooted in family and community. She was the devoted wife of the late Kenneth Bell and the late Ralph Milbrath. She leaves behind her children, Beth (Dale) Haferkorn and Bob (Michelle) Bell; her grandchildren, Kenny (Liz) Haferkorn, Sam (Lauren) Haferkorn, and Julia Bell; and her great-granddaughters, Peyton and Jozie. She is further survived by many other relatives and friends.

Susan found joy in the simple things — gardening, reading, quilting, and long walks through her hometown. Known throughout Butler for her warm smile and friendly nature, she made a habit of stopping to talk with nearly everyone she met. Over the years, she generously donated many of her lovingly handmade quilts to veterans, a gesture that reflected her deeply giving heart.

She began her working life in manufacturing, later transitioning into office work after additional training. She spent many years as an accounts payable clerk at a small company in Butler, often walking to work and taking pride in her independence. Though she didn’t work directly at Ralph and Sue’s in Menomonee Falls — the business she shared with her late husband Ralph — she was a familiar and welcoming presence there, always happy to visit and chat with customers who became friends.

A private inurnment will be held at Pinelawn Memorial Park.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on October 5, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 PM at Bandero County Wood Grill & Saloon (N96W16865 Cumberland Court, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051).

In honor of Susan’s memory, the family invites donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice supporting Alzheimer’s research and care. We also want to thank Fairway Knolls and Brighton Hospice for the loving care they gave to Susan.

Susan will be remembered for her gentle strength, her generous spirit, and the love she shared with all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in her family and in every life she touched — one smile, one quilt, and one conversation at a time.