Birth date: Mar 15, 1947 Death date: Sep 10, 2021
Originally from Hastings, Michigan, Sandy attended Manchester College and Central Michigan University, and received her bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University. She taught for three years in the Reeths Puffer School Dis Read Obituary
Sending love and support for healing
Our deepest sympathies to all of you, Paul, Megan and Chelsea, and family and friends. We have loved and admired Sandy since we first met her years ago during the day care years. Her life leaves a legacy that will live on in countless hearts and lives.
Rob and Lois Eich
Sandy was a caring, loving, compassionate and energetic dynamo. Our love and condolences to her family. She was the quintessential person who strived to "make the world a better place." She will be terribly missed. Phil & Betty Leech
Sandy was my mentor and my friend when I was hired to teach special education at White Pines. She listened to my concerns, answered my questions, and guided me when I was headed the wrong way. Sandy and Paul opened their home to me for dinner at times I would have been alone because they were thoughtful that way. I knew I could always count on Sandy to listen, and I could trust her support. She set a high bar for educators around her with graciousness and humor. I am sad Sandy is no longer with us, but I am happy to have had her in my life.
It was such an honor to work for Sandy. She was a hard worker, a perfectionist; the most unselfish person I've ever met, and a true advocate for all children.
She enjoyed having a great time, had a gift for writing and for speaking. She always brought so much humor and laugher in our staff meetings.
Her stature was small, but her presence was huge when surrounded by students. They loved her, even when being disciplined. She had a magical way about her that brought the best out of even the most difficult of situations.
"A Tidy School is a Happy School", and "For You the World".....I can still hear her saying this!
Love,
Debbie Spetoskey
Back when Fred Johnson ran against Bill Huizenga for the seat in the House of Representatives, he was asked to speak before the Tea Party group in Zeeland. I went because I thought Fred needed some support before this assemblage of hard right-wingers. I was wrong. Sandy was there to shield and protect him. I just lurked in her shadow. Sandy was not about to be cowed by the tea partiers!
Sandy was a good friend of mine through 8th grade when my family moved away from Hastings. As we walked to school together, she, Dawn Burghdoff Layne & I would quiz each other on questions and answers before a test that day. She was smart and funny and passionate.
Sandy was a dear friend and such an advocate for everything she believed in. Her volunteer efforts to make a better world will never be forgotten. She always was able to do the next right thing. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. May you rest in peace my dear sweet friend.
