Valerie “Val” Suby, 70, of Mason City, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2025, at MercyOne Medical Center in Mason City, surrounded by her loving family.
Val was born on July 15, 1954, in Mason City to Emil and Marilyn “Cookie” Schiff. She grew up alongside her beloved younger sister, Shelly, and the two shared a lifelong, unbreakable bond.
A gifted musician, Val played the flute and was proud to be first chair in her high school band. She also played the piano, often filling her home with music. She graduated from Mason City High School in May of 1972.
Val met the love of her life, Kirk Suby, at a friend’s birthday party while in high school. The two were married on August 12, 1972 at Grace United Methodist Church.
She and Kirk were blessed with three children: Amber, Andrew, and Adam, who passed away shortly after his birth. Her devotion to her family was unwavering. She and Kirk never missed a game, recital, or milestone for their children and grandchildren. They were truly the center of her life — their happiness, growth, and well-being were her greatest priorities and her proudest joy.
Val dedicated over 40 years of her career to the Globe Gazette, starting in sales and advertising and eventually serving as IT Manager until her retirement on New Year’s Eve, 2014. Her work ethic and leadership were admired by colleagues and friends alike.
Family was always at the center of Val’s life. She cherished annual summer vacations with her kids when they were young and adored babysitting her granddogs in later years. She treasured time spent with her mother, Cookie, and sister, Shelly, finding joy in simple moments and shared laughter.
In her free time Val enjoyed pottery classes, spending time with Austin and Alli, and never turned down a stop at Culver’s for a scoop of custard and she especially enjoyed the rotating flavor of the day. She was a devoted volunteer at the Hawkeye Harvest Food Bank, where she gave countless hours of her time with grace and compassion as well as the Exchange Club.
Val’s faith was a guiding force in her life. A lifelong member of Grace United Methodist Church, she served in many roles over the years, including Sunday School and Bible Study teacher. Her faith never wavered, even in times of challenge.
Val leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and strength. She is survived by her children, Amber Suby (Elliot Nehls) and Andrew Suby (Courtney Petersen); mother, Marilyn “Cookie” Schiff; grandchildren, Austin Eldridge (Kenzie Horst) and Alli Eldridge (Carter Walters); nephew, Christian (Allison) Schiff and their children, Alexandria, Landyn and Kylie Schiff; and Kirk’s siblings, Mark (Connie) Suby, Collette Turner and Jody Sellon; as well as extended family and many friends.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kirk Suby; son, Adam; father, Emil Schiff; sister, Shelly Miller; Kirk’s parents, Roger and Colleen Suby; brother-in-law, Gary Sellon; nephew, Mark Sachen; and niece, Courtney Sellon.
A Funeral Service will be held 10:30 am Friday, May 23, 2025 at Grace United Methodist Church, 200 14th St NW, Mason City. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.
Visitation will be held Thursday evening, May 22 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St NE, Mason City.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Hawkeye Harvest Food Bank or Grace United Methodist Church in her honor.
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