Luana Ann “Suzie” Uhlhorn, age 78, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, in her Chandler, Arizona home, surrounded by the love of her children.
Suzie was born on January 22, 1948, in Pine City, Minnesota, to the late Marlene and Herbert Sass. She grew up in Windom, Minnesota, where she graduated from high school and was known for her beauty, warmth, and vibrant spirit. In 1966, she was crowned Miss Windom, a reflection of the grace and presence she carried throughout her life.
In 1968, Suzie married the love of her life, Leon Uhlhorn. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, hard work, and shared dreams, raising four children and creating a strong family foundation. Their enterprising spirit led them to open an American Family Insurance agency in Windom in 1980. In 1985, Leon was promoted to District Manager in Southwest Minnesota. Seeking to return to the customer-focused side of the business, the family moved to Arizona in 1989, where they opened another American Family Insurance agency and began a new chapter together.
In 1998, Suzie’s life was forever changed by the tragic loss of Leon and his brother Howard in a boating accident. Her love for Leon remained the enduring foundation of her life. She chose not to remarry, holding close to the deep bond they shared and the life they built together.
Suzie continued her work as office manager in her son Marty’s insurance agencies and helped found Strong Tower Insurance Group in 2013. She played a vital role in building and supporting the team until her retirement in 2025.
She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; the heart and foundation of multiple businesses; and a woman of quiet strength, deep peace, and steady faith.
Suzie was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Marlene Sass, and her beloved husband, Leon Uhlhorn. She is survived by her four children: Marty Uhlhorn (Brandi), Deanne Olson, Rachael Witkin (Sean), and Laurel Chose; ten grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Kathy Nelson, Brad Sass, Beverly Hansen, Ron Sass, and Paul Sass.
Following Suzie’s wishes, no public viewing or formal service will be held. She chose cremation and requested a private family gathering to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her honor to Eden Village of Arizona at www.edenvillagearizona.org.
