Susan Jean Cote

Susan Jean Cote, 79, of Devils Lake, formerly of Willow City, North Dakota, passed away on March 9, 2026, at the Lakota Good Samaritan Center surrounded by the loving care of her family and HIA Hospice.

Born on December 7, 1946, to Ralph and Dorothy “Jean” Schumacher Cote, Susan graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Willow City in 1965. She completed the licensed nursing program at Lake Region State College in Devils Lake the following year and began her career at Mercy Hospital. Deeply guided by her faith, she traveled to northern Canada to study for missionary work. Upon returning, she served on the Spirit Lake Reservation through various programs and, during that time, adopted her son Ethan, who became the light of her life.

Susan was a devoted member of Bethel Free Church, where she and Ethan shared in the music program. She had a lifelong love of music, taking lessons on both piano and guitar, and was often heard humming tunes as she worked. She also participated in two church mission trips to Venezuela. In her later years, despite health challenges, she formed meaningful friendships at the Lakota Good Samaritan Center, including with her special friend Dennis.

She is survived by her son Ethan and granddaughter Hermione; and by her siblings Carolyn Cote of Williston, David Cote (Connie) of Bismarck, Barb Schmaus (Pierce) of Glendive, Montana, Doug Cote of Breckenridge, Colorado, and Jennifer Cote of Williston. She was preceded in death by her parents.