Susan E. (Anderson) Dorton

Susan Elizabeth (Anderson) Dorton, 74, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, September 26, 2026. She was born on August 3, 1952, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and lived a life filled with love, laughter, family, friendship, and many wonderful memories. 

Susan had a passion for cooking and mastering her recipes. Making food for her family and others was her way of showing her love. Many people will remember her for the delicious meals and treats she made.  

She worked at the Red Ox Supper Club for over 30 years as the head Chef. She made many friends and touched the lives of many people during her years there. 

Most of all, she loved her family and her fur babies. She was always there for the people she cared about and will be remembered for her kind heart, hard work, and the love she gave everyone around her. 

Susan is survived by her loving fiancé Jerold Van Handel; sister: Carolyn (Pat) Cummings; brother: Prescott Anderson; children: Bret and Chad Dorton; grandchildren: Crystal (Mark), Cory, Jackson, Kylie, Mikayla, and Drake; great grandchildren: Emma, Sofia, Hudson, Graham, and Halle. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Deforest and Catherine (Weinke) Anderson; brother, Dale Henley; great granddaughter Marlowe, and Willis H. Dorton jr. 

The family will be planning a Celebration of Life gathering soon. 

For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.