Dorothy "Sue" Marie McKinsey

Dorothy Marie McKinsey, affectionately known as Sue, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025. She was born on February 1, 1947, in Hoven, South Dakota, to George and Anna Marie Edrich.

Sue lived a full, vibrant life and touched the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know her. She was passionate, fiercely loyal, and devoted to her family and friends.

Sue worked as a service clerk for the United States Postal Service until a disability led her to leave her position. But true to her resilient nature, she refused to let that define her. Instead, she opened an in-home daycare where countless children were cared for and loved like her own. Many of those early bonds grew into lifelong relationships she always held dear.

Even in retirement, Sue kept herself busy — doing bookkeeping at the Eagles, enjoying the camaraderie, drink chips, and, of course, the thrill of pull tabs. Her humor, warmth, and magnetic personality always made her the life of the room.

Sue was a devoted mother, determined to raise a strong-willed and independent daughter. She was endlessly proud of her daughter and son-in-law, and absolutely adored her grandchildren. She shared a special bond with Amber and Jared (whom she affectionately called “Sweet Cheeks”). From early morning fishing trips where they hit their limit before the sun was up, to ‘boogalooning’ and ultimately getting lost on the way to the ‘cow park’ (good thing they always brought snacks), to soaking in a hot tub on a chilly Wyoming night, Sue cherished every moment with them.

Sue embraced the simple pleasures in life: long chats with friends and family, watching wildlife from her patio, and snacking on her favorite candies. On occasion, she also enjoyed the buzz and excitement of a craps table or a slot machine. She had a gift for connecting with people in a deep, genuine way — a gift that kept her surrounded by love until the very end.

With her steel-blue eyes, beautiful smile, and contagious laugh, Sue lit up every room she entered. She cherished time with her brothers and sisters — whether visiting one of their flower shops or meeting for coffee at the family restaurant. She entertained us all with her outrageous (and sometimes wildly inappropriate) t-shirts and had a quick wit that often gave voice to what everyone else was thinking.

Sue is survived by her beloved daughter and son-in-law, Kari and Michael, her treasured grandchildren Amber (Dalton) and Jared, and her siblings: Jerry (Gracie), Bill (Loraine), Jim (Joanne), Bonnie, and Connie (Alan). She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who lovingly called her “Aunt Susie.”

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, April 24th at The Irish Rover Pub (54 S. Broadway, Denver, CO 80209) from 4–6 PM. All are welcome to raise a glass, share a memory, and celebrate the unforgettable life of Sue.