Susan Graupner, 45, Was Animal Rescue Worker

Susan Leigh Graupner of Lincoln, Neb., died Sunday, March 19, from complications following a heart attack. She was 45.

Sue's connection to the Vineyard goes back to her childhood and continued for most of her life. She was born and raised in Westfield, N.J., and spent every summer with her family at their cottage, the Red Hen, on Sengekontacket Pond; she returned in later years with her own children. It was there that Sue first discovered her deep love for nature and all living creatures.

Throughout the years, both on the Vineyard and in Nebraska, Sue rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of wild animals. She worked as a volunteer for many years on the Nebraska Wildlife Rescue Team. Her love of animals was not limited to the wild variety; she also worked at the Capital Humane Society of Lincoln, helping to find good homes for all manner of domestic animals. At any given time she had a dozen or so animals at her farm outside of town; some were her pets, and others were waiting to be adopted.

Sue's only greater love was the love she had for her three children and her new grandson. While raising her children and running her farm as a single woman was no small feat, Sue met the challenge and always gave her best. Her children are bright, shining reflections of their mother and carry that deep love for all living creatures within them.

Sue is survived by her children, daughters Haley and Hannah Graupner and son Zach Graupner; a grandson, Christopher Graupner; a sister, Nancy Graupner; brothers Scott, Peter and David Graupner, and scores of much loved friends, both human and animal.

Services were held Thursday, March 23, at Antelope Park in Lincoln. At Sue's request, family and friends were asked to dress casually and to bring their dogs.

Donations in her name may be sent to the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary in Edgartown.