Susan "Susie" M. (Cibulka) Hines

Susan “Susie” (Cibulka) Hines passed away on February 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of fierce love, resilience, and generosity that will live on in everyone who knew her.

Born on November 18, 1952, just twenty minutes after her twin sister, Sandy—Susie entered this world with a built-in best friend and a fighting spirit that would define her life. She grew up in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the daughter of Robert (Bob) and Golda (Goldie) Cibulka. Tough, proud of her Czech roots, and never one to back down, Susie carried strength in her bones and kindness in her heart.

She loved Harley Davidsons, the river, and oldies music that could transport her back in time with just a few notes. But more than anything, Susie loved taking care of people. She would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need—no questions asked. Her home was always open, her table always had room for one more, and her heart was big enough to mother not only her own daughters, but anyone who needed one.

Susie was an amazing and devoted mother to her three daughters until the very end. Her greatest pride was her family. She poured herself into caring for them—showing up, standing strong, and loving fiercely. Her daughters and grandsons were the light of her life, and she made sure they always knew it.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bob and Goldie Cibulka, her twin sister, Sandy (Van Riper), as well as many other close family members and friends.

She is survived by her three daughters: Sara (Brent) Welch, Lea (Garrett) Hines, and Abby (Nash) Hoover; her cherished grandsons Austin, Sam, Skye, Ayden, and Keenan; her brothers Robert (Barbara) Cibulka and John Cibulka; her nephews Steven, Michael, and Nathan Cibulka; and her great friend Steve, along with many others who were lucky enough to call her family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 20th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the incredible woman Susie was.

Susie’s strength, laughter, stubborn streak, and boundless love shaped generations. She was tough. She was loyal. She was selfless. And she will be missed more than words can ever express.

We are deeply grateful to the hospice team for their compassion and gentle care in her final days. They brought comfort, dignity, and peace to her and to our family, and their kindness will never be forgotten.

Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life lived fully and fiercely. Her love carries on in all of us.