Susan Ann “Beard” Kotsch, 59, of Valley Falls, KS, passed away Tuesday, June 29, 2021 peacefully at her home with family by her side. She was born June 6, 1962 in Ft. Riley, KS the daughter of David J. and Carol Ann (Noble) Beard.

Susan graduated from Washburn Rural High School in 1980 and attended Highland Community College. She retired from the State of Kansas after 34 years as an Administrative Secretary for the Driver Control Bureau.

She was a member of Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene, Valley Falls Lions Club, PBX Switchboard Operator and Bunko Club.

Susan married Joseph “Joe” E. Kotsch on July 12, 1991 in Topeka, KS. They celebrated over 29 years of marriage.

Survivors include her husband, Joe of the home; son Justin Lee Foote (Kylah) of Wetmore; sister Cindy Sanstra (Dean) of Colorado Springs, CO and 2 grandchildren, Kaylee and Jared Foote.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Carol Beard.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m. July 2, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Family will greet friend from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Valley Falls Meals on Wheels or Jefferson County Animal Shelter c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.