The community of Waverly-Shell Rock is deeply mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Suz SmolikHagen, a highly respected and cherished principal at Shell Rock Elementary and Carey Elementary School. Suz, a dedicated educator and leader, passed away unexpectedly on July 8, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia, following a heart attack.
Suz SmolikHagen: A Pillar of the Community
Suz SmolikHagen was not only a committed principal but also a beloved wife, mother, and friend. She is survived by her husband, Dave, and their three children: Meg, Anna, and Gabe. Known for her dedication to education and her unwavering support for her students and colleagues, Suz made a significant impact on the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District.
Educational and Professional Journey
Suz’s educational journey began in her hometown of Waverly, Iowa. She graduated from Osage Community High School and continued her studies at Wartburg College, where she earned her degree in Education. She later obtained her PK-12 Principal Endorsement from Northwestern College in Iowa and furthered her education at the University of Iowa.
Throughout her career, Suz was deeply involved in the education sector. She worked as a Team Representative at the Central Rivers Area Education Agency before becoming the principal at Shell Rock Elementary and Carey Elementary School. Her tenure as principal began at the start of the 2023-2024 school year, and she quickly became a valued leader within the district.
A Life Dedicated to Education
Suz’s dedication to her role as an educator was evident in everything she did. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to her students’ success were unparalleled. She was known for her ability to connect with her students, inspire her colleagues, and foster a positive learning environment. Her contributions to the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District were significant and will be remembered for years to come.
The Tragic Incident
Suz was visiting her daughter, Meg, and her husband, Dave, in Atlanta when she tragically passed away. According to her family, she suffered a heart attack while staying at a hotel. The medical examiner’s office found that Suz had an enlarged heart and likely died of a heart attack in her sleep, with no signs of struggle. Her sudden passing has left her family, friends, and colleagues in deep shock and sorrow.
Community Reaction and Support
The Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District and the entire Waverly community have come together to mourn Suz’s passing and support her family during this difficult time. The district released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and extending condolences to Suz’s family and loved ones. They also acknowledged Suz’s significant contributions to the district and her impact on the community.
In a statement, the district said, “Suz was an integral, valued leader who will be deeply missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Suz’s family and loved ones as well as those on staff who worked most closely with her. Suz touched many, many lives over the course of her career in education.”
To honor Suz’s memory, the district is offering support services to students and staff affected by her passing. AEA crisis team members are available by phone, Zoom, or in person to provide additional support. Parents of Waverly-Shell Rock students are also being offered resources to help them talk to their children about this loss.
A Family’s Tribute
Suz’s daughter, Meg McAloon, released a statement on behalf of the family, expressing their deep sorrow and sharing details about Suz’s passing. “My family has tragic news to share. My parents and my brother, Gabe, were visiting David and me in Atlanta. Dad had already gone home, while Mom and Gabe stayed a couple more days in Atlanta at a hotel. Sometime early Monday (July 8th) morning, my mom passed away in her sleep at the hotel. The medical examiner’s office found she had an enlarged heart and said she probably died of a heart attack. There was no sign of a struggle, and the ME said she did not suffer. Unfortunately, the rest of us are.”
Meg continued, “We appreciate everyone’s kind words and support. We are currently working out the details of a visitation for those that want to say goodbye. We are also planning a celebration of life (rather than a funeral) as Mom would have preferred a party with dancing and music over a stuffy service.”
A Community Remembers
The Shell Rock Farmers Market will hold a special event in Suz’s honor. A craft table/tent will be set up for kids and adults to paint kindness rocks, continuing Suz’s legacy of spreading kindness. The event will take place at the Shell Rock Farmers Market from 5 to 7 p.m. near the Boyd Building at 303 S. Cherry Street.
Suz’s Impact and Legacy
Suz’s impact on the Waverly-Shell Rock community extends far beyond her role as a principal. She was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of positivity. Her dedication to education and her passion for helping others were evident in all aspects of her life. Suz’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the positive changes she brought to her community.
Her colleagues remember her as a compassionate and driven leader who always put her students first. Her friends and family recall her as a loving and caring individual who brought joy to those around her. Suz’s passing is a significant loss for the Waverly-Shell Rock community, but her memory will continue to inspire and guide those who knew her.
Final Thoughts
As the Waverly-Shell Rock community mourns the loss of Suz SmolikHagen, they also celebrate her life and the remarkable impact she had on those around her. Suz’s dedication to her family, her students, and her community will be remembered for years to come. The community’s outpouring of support and love for Suz’s family is a testament to the profound impact she had on their lives.
In honoring Suz’s memory, the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District and the entire community are committed to continuing her legacy of kindness, dedication, and excellence in education. Suz’s life was a testament to the power of compassion and the importance of making a positive difference in the lives of others. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide the Waverly-Shell Rock community for generations to come.
The community’s collective grief and support highlight the deep connections and sense of unity that Suz fostered during her time as an educator and leader. As they navigate this difficult time, the Waverly-Shell Rock community remains strong, united by their love for Suz and their commitment to honoring her memory.
