Susan L. Dillenburg

July 23, 1951-Feb. 16, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Susan L. (Cerrito/Deszcz) Dillenburg, 74, of Sheridan, who passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, with her loving husband by her side.

Susan was born on July 23, 1951, in Dunkirk to Joseph and Kathleen (Portnell) Cerrito. She graduated from Fredonia High School with the Class of 1969.

Susan dedicated 26 years of service to the E2CCB LoGuidice Center before retiring. She began her career working in the cafeteria alongside her sister, Cathy, before becoming a Teacher Aide supporting special needs children–a role that truly held her heart. At the time of her retirement, she served as an aide in Career and Technical Education in the Welding program. Over the years, she also assisted students in Culinary Arts, Construction Technology, and Veterinary Science. Students fondly knew her as “Miss Sue,” while colleagues affectionately called her “Mama Sue.” Her generosity, compassion, and unwavering encouragement touched countless lives.

Susan enjoyed cheering on the Buffalo Bills and watching NASCAR. She found joy in tending her garden and lawn, reading, doing puzzles, and sharing adventures with her beloved husband, Jim. She delighted in feeding and observing backyard birds and wildlife and caring for her cats Missy and Sam. Above all, Susan treasured time with her family.

“Grandma Sue” was a devoted and doting grandmother. Nothing made her happier than watching her grandsons grow close and form a bond as strong as brothers. She and Jim frequently hosted sleepovers for all four boys, complete with unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebrations featuring balloon drops and confetti poppers at midnight. Their home was the setting for epic Easter egg hunts and family gatherings filled with laughter and wonderful food. Her golumpki was legendary, and her rigatoni was a cherished family favorite.

Susan’s legacy of love lives on. “Susie” is survived by her husband of 37 wonderful years, James (J.D.) Dillenburg, who stood faithfully by her side throughout every step of her health journey. She is also survived by her sisters, Catherine Graves and Beverly Gilbert; her daughter, Shelly (Don Rankin) Ackendorf; and her son, Eric (Stephanie) Deszcz, who were blessed to call her Mom. Her beloved grandchildren include Nicholas and Andrew Deszcz; Daniel (Hannah) and Thomas (Madyson) Ackendorf; and bonus granddaughter Samantha Rankin. She is also survived by many loving brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and her former son-in-law, Casey (Trish) Ackendorf.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brother, John Cerrito; brothers-in-law Bruce Graves and Douglas Gilbert; and great-nephew Bryce Graves.

In accordance with Susan’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or memorial service. Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III; McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Ave, Dunkirk, NY.

Miss Sue was known for her generosity, often helping her students pay for their SkillsUSA competition expenses so they could pursue opportunities they might not otherwise afford. Those wishing to honor her memory may make donations to LoGuidice SkillsUSA, Attention: Career and Technical Division, 9520 Fredonia-Stockton Road, Fredonia, NY 14063.

Susan will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the love she so freely gave.