Sandra Kay Huber's Obituary
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 District before becoming a special education teacher for Grand Haven Area Public Schools. Sandy demonstrated her passion for life-long learning by earning master’s degrees in both special education and educational leadership. Shortly thereafter, she became the assistant principal and then the principal of her beloved White Pines Middle School. Sandy’s career with Grand Haven Area Public Schools spanned over 30 years during which time she was known for her tireless commitment to her students, her dedication to her staff, and her advocacy for public education.
When she retired, her passion for the youth and her community continued. She spent the next 15 years of her life until just months prior to her death as a volunteer and respected leader. Her service to the Grand Haven community included board and committee roles with the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, the Grand Haven Schools Foundation, Tri-Cities Kiwanis, Greater Ottawa County United Way, Momentum Center, S.C.O.R.E., League of Women Voters, C.H.I.L.L., Lakeshore Environmental Education Program, and many, many others.
In what little free time she had, she could be found driving students and residents to appointments or afterschool programs and providing treats along the way. She rarely missed a Sunday with her progressive, inclusive friends at C3. She fostered relationships through countless cards and notes, offering comfort, encouragement, and humor. She had an innate ability to recognize those most in need and dedicated her life to helping them.
She was also a diehard Democrat all day, every day. During election season, if she wasn’t canvassing or searching for a republican to convert, she was helping Democratic causes and candidates with her fellow Ottawa County Democrats.
One of her proudest moments was in 2019 when she was honored for her lifetime of service and inducted into the Grand Haven High School Hall of Fame by receiving the Honorary Award for Service.
Best known for her many sayings, her most recognized, “For you, the world”, was a true representation of all she gave to her students, young people, and the community throughout her life.
She is survived by her husband Paul, daughters Megan and Chelsea, sister Cheryl (Jack Nachman) Allerding, sister-in-law Joyce Allerding, nephew Bradley (Katie) Allerding, niece Julie (Justin) Clark, and special friend, Todd VanZantwick. She was preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Juanita Allerding, and her brother Michael Allerding.
Her celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 26, at 1:00 p.m. in the Grand Haven High School Performing Arts Center. Masks will be available at the door and are strongly encouraged. You can also watch a live stream of Sandra's celebration at https://vimeo.com/612548635 In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Tri-Cities Kiwanis Foundation (memo line: Homeless Youth Fund), P.O. Box 571, Grand Haven, Michigan, 49417. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Sandra?
What’s a lesson you learned from Sandra?
Share a story where Sandra's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Sandra you’ll never forget.
How did Sandra make you smile?