Susan J. Mousel

Former area resident Susan J. Mousel, 80, of Lincoln, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by family at The Grace Space, Lincoln, NE.

Rosary will be at 10:30 a.m. and Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. Friday, September 19, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Hastings with Father Prageeth Chamara officiating. Burial will be at Highland St. Patrick’s Cemetery, rural Hastings. Visitation will be 1-7 p.m. with the family present 5-7 p.m. Thursday, September 18, at the funeral home, and one hour before the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the family. 

Born August 28, 1945, in McCook, NE, to John A. and E. Maxine (Noble) Elder. Susan grew up in Lincoln and attended Lincoln Southeast High School. She married the love of her life, Richard J. Mousel, in 1968, and together they built a home near Ayr, NE; full of laughter, love, and resilience until his passing in 1996.

Susan dedicated her life to children, earning her teaching certificate from Hastings College and her master’s degree from Kearney State College. She spent many years teaching elementary special education, where her caring heart, patience, and sense of humor touched countless lives.

Beyond the classroom, Susan found joy in the simple things. She embraced the country life and was a wonderful home-maker. She loved working in her garden, sewing, hunting for crafts and antiques, and getting lost in a good book. She was lovingly committed to helping all of her children with their 4H projects, sports, and music activities. She was a member of the P. E. O. Sisterhood, Adams County Extension Club, and a Catholic Prayer Group. Those who knew her best will remember her sweet nature, her gentle presence, and her ability to find joy in laughter, even in life’s hardest moments.

She leaves behind four children who adored her: Stephanie Mousel, Eric Mousel (Alaina), Stacy Hilton (Ben), and Nick Mousel. She was a proud grandmother to Wyatt, Colman, Morgan, Cormac, Katie, Jack, and June who will always remember her love and encouragement.

Susan’s legacy is one of kindness, strength, and devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the lives of those she loved.