Memorial

Susanne Springer of Cedar Rapids, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by her close family, on February 5, 2026, after a long and valiant battle with cancer. 

Susanne was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 14, 1949, to Ted and Irene Kirpluk. She graduated from Taft High School in Chicago and attended the University of Iowa graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. While at Iowa, she met her future husband, Steve.  They relocated to Steve’s hometown of Toledo, Iowa and married in 1972. While in Toledo, Susanne worked as a counselor at the State Juvenile Home. In 1980, Susanne gave birth to her son, Adam, who was the pride of her life. In 1982, the family moved to Cedar Rapids where Susanne worked as a Psychologist Associate for the Grant Wood Area Education Agency until she retired. 

She enjoyed hiking in the woods, camping, having campfires in the backyard and tending her impressive flower gardens.  She started a play group in 1983 for Adam and his friends, was a member of the “Shop Til You Drop” group, volunteered as a Friend of Noelridge working in the greenhouse of Noelridge Park, enjoyed biking trips with friends, and loved participating in and hosting book club gatherings.  She met many of her friends at these events, who remained her closest and dearest friends today. 

Susanne and Steve spent 53 years laughing at and with each other, she enjoyed trying new things, and going on many adventures; loving every moment. She will be remembered, not by naming her many qualities, but by the combination of those qualities which let her be who she was; a loving mother and wife, sister, aunt and a wonderful friend.

She is survived by her husband, Steve Springer; son, Adam (Mary) Springer; sisters, Pat Hominick and Barb Kirpluk; nieces, Becky Hominick, Katie Hominick, Amy Commer, Emily Harte, Layli Alston, Geisu Springer-Lewis, along with many great-nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Ted and Irene Kirpluk.  

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 21 from 1 to 3 p.m., at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel Stateroom, Cedar Rapids. A private burial will follow.