Susan Riedinger

Susan Riedinger, 76, Bismarck, passed away August 13, 2026, at her home.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church, Mandan, with Pastor Deanna Reikow officiating. Cremation has taken place and the family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Susan was born January 10, 1950, in Bismarck, the second of four children to Harold and Vera (Bolke) Helferich. Raised in Hebron and Mandan, Susan graduated from Mandan High School in 1968 and went on to attend North Dakota State University and Dickinson State University. She later graduated from the University of Mary in 1987, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Computer Information Systems.

In 1971, she married Douglas Riedinger and together they raised three daughters, Jenny, Natalie, and Char. They were later divorced.

Susan was a woman of many interests and talents. She had a wonderful gift for creating and crafting, particularly through sewing, quilting, knitting, and ceramics. An accomplished quilter, she created beautiful quilts that reflected her remarkable skill, patience, and eye for detail. She treasured attending quilt retreats with friends and loved exploring quilt shops throughout the tri-state area, often finding inspiration for her next project. She especially enjoyed making baby items and made countless blankets, burp cloths, and hooded towel sets, including many donated to the Warm Start program. Her sewing talents also brought joy to her family through handmade outfits, pajamas, and Halloween costumes.

When she wasn’t working on sewing projects, she was putting together puzzles or Lego sets, all while listening to audio books. She was a member of P.E.O. and enjoyed her bridge club and playing mahjong.

Family was at the heart of Susan's life. She always made the holidays special for her children and grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. She loved watching her children and grandchildren participate in their various activities.

Susan will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Jenny (Bill) Bellas, Natalie (Chey) Spitzer, and Char Stroh; grandchildren, Logan and Sydney Roller, Greta Bellas, and Madeline Spitzer; bonus grandchildren, Sophia and Amelia Minniti; siblings, Donna (Arnie) Hatzenbuhler and Jim (Lynn) Helferich; brother-in-law, John Bullinger; numerous nieces and nephews; and her beloved cat, Hunter.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Vera Helferich; sister, Diane Bullinger; nephew Jeremiah Hatzenbuhler; niece, Tara Hatzenbuhler; and beloved cat, Sigmond.

Susan leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, generosity, and family traditions. The countless handmade gifts she created, the holidays she made special, and the many activities she shared with her family will remain cherished memories for all who knew and loved her.