Obituary
Susan Margaret Baccella (Pfaffmann), born June 1, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, in Northville at the age of 88.
Susan was a woman of quiet grace and a gentle spirit who deeply loved her family. She had a special way of keeping everyone connected and was the glue that held the extended family together. She shared a particularly deep bond with her sisters, whose companionship, laughter, and lifelong friendship meant the world to her.
Sue devoted her career to the Ford Motor Company, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. Driving her treasured Thunderbird or Mustang brought Sue great joy and freedom, and her passengers often called her a “lead foot”.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures and had a deep appreciation for beauty. Susan loved surrounding herself with flowers and creating warm, welcoming spaces through her natural talent for decorating. She also loved golf and especially treasured her summers “Up North” at Hubbard Lake, which included boating and lake time, as well as the work of keeping the cabins clean and welcoming for guests—a labor she embraced with care and pride.
Susan also had a special love for her little dogs—Renee, Molly, and, most recently, Trixie. Though she had no children of her own, she was a devoted aunt who took great pride in her nieces and nephews. Her presence, encouragement, and love will remain a lasting gift to the family she cherished so deeply.
Susan was preceded in death by her husbands, Roland Booth and Rudy Baccella, and by her siblings Ozzie, George, Bill, Val, and Barbara and her niece Linda.
She is survived by her dear sister, Martha, and many cherished nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews. Family and friends will remember Susan for her gentle nature, thoughtfulness, and the way she made everyone feel welcomed and loved.
A Memorial Visitation will be held on April 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 3:00 PM. Inurnment will take place at Michigan Memorial Park.
Whether behind the wheel of her T-Bird, laughing with family, or sharing quiet moments by the lake, Susan lived fully, loved deeply, and left her mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.