Susan Kay (Baker) Erdman

Susan Kay Erdman, 68, of Rossville, passed away at her home on Thursday, January 8, 2026.  She was born on July 3, 1957, in Fairfield, Illinois, to Carson Sr. and Katherine (Desch) Baker.  She married Douglas Erdman on July 31, 1993, and he survives.

Susan was a graduate of Fairfield High School, class of 1975. She briefly attended Illinois State University and transferred to Southern Illinois University, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in education with a later emphasis in special education. She went on to earn her MBA from Southern Illinois University, where she met her husband. Susan was an elementary special education teacher in Florida, Carbondale, IL, and Rossville, IN from where she retired in 2018. She was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in West Lafayette, IN where she taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. She enjoyed antiques, pictures and scrapbooking, crafting, and genealogy. Susan had a passion for children and spent a lot of her time caring for them through teaching and church. She enjoyed spending time with family, making and documenting memories, especially with her 2 grandsons, who became her pride and joy. She was a fierce protector of those she loved. Her laugh will be remembered by many forever.

Along with her husband of 32 years, Susan is survived by her children, Michelle (Matthew) Henley, Jennifer (Larry Mangano) Erdman, and Austin (Chloe) Erdman; brother, Carson (Kelli) Baker, Jr.; grandchildren, Theo and Fisher Henley; aunt and uncle, Phyllis and Tom Duncan; and many brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Susan was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Cathy Ratcliff Baker.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday morning, January 17, 2026 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in West Lafayette, IN with a visitation from 10am until the time of the celebration of life at 12pm. Day & Genda ~ Bodine Chapel is assisting with the services and arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made in Susan’s honor to Redeemer Lutheran Church. Messages of condolence may be left at www.dayandgenda.com.