Karen Sue “Susie” Brown, 85, of Gilman passed peacefully at her home with loved ones by her side following a short illness.

Graveside services will be 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at Wenger Green Ridge Cemetery, Gilman with Rev. Donald MacDonald, III officiating. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Susie was born July 7, 1941 to Alfred and Edith Seiling. Susie was raised on the farm east of Gilman. She loved the animals and working with her dad. She attended Gilman schools and graduated in 1959. After school she worked for Albee Texaco Bulk Plant in Gilman where she met Max. Max sold auto parts out of an old school bus. They fell in love and were married in a ceremony at Max’s father’s home in Woodland. Susie said Max had a big fancy car and she was impressed, after they got married, she found out he had a loan on it. Max and Sue then started Brown Hardware in Gilman. The hardware store was their passion, and together they ran the store for 65 years of service to the community. Susie never found an empty box or bag that she should not save, along with most sales catalogs they received. Her kitchen at home was different than most, along with the things you would normally find in the drawers, there were bolts, screws, wire, nuts and anything else the hardware store had. There were also plenty of shop tools around the kitchen as well. Susie was truly Hardware Gal in every way.

Sue was an avid sports fan and dog lover. “MA” also mothered many from the community with advice and strong opinions whether you asked or not.

She was preceded in passing by her husband Max, mother, dad, brother, and brother-in-law, Rex and Marilyn Brown.

She is survived by all those whose lives she touched.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois County Animal Rescue. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.