I first met Sandy in 1991 when we both rode Thoroughbreds owned by Shirley VanLeween. Particularly, Ardaven whom she showed Dressage and in 3 Day Evented. From 1991 to 1996 we showed extensively together and had so many occasions of hysterical, stomach cramping, I have to sit down” type laughter. Although I didn’t see her as much after I stopped showing Dressage, My horse show life would not have been the same with out her. I will remember her for that cheeky sense of humour and our time spent laughing.

Hayley van der Kloot

July 25, 2024

I was shocked to learn of Sandy’s passing… although I left Calgary several years ago, we did spend many years together at Trakehner Glen where she was part of the amazing team who cared for our horses. We too, connected on the basis of our mutual love of animals and our shared passion for the sport of Dressage. In addition to the Dressage executive and the show ring, Sandy and I would also run into each other at the seniors home - Wentworth manner - in NW Calgary where both our grandmothers were housed. We were there on most special occasions and events, and together we smirked and chuckled while we watched them all celebrate and join in on the festivities. Her parents (dad Lorne and mom Dixie) would often steal the show on the dance floor and often times, Lorne would ask my mom Edith, to dance too. (may they both RIP). All of their smiles and joy are so affectionately engrained in my memory.

To Dixie and family, and to Sandy’s extended Trakehner Glen family, my thoughts are with you through this difficult time.

I hadn't chatted with Sandy in a number of years, not since the last time we were both a local dressage show, but she always made me laugh with her wonderful sense of humour and always had a kind word to say about my horse and our dressage journey. I boarded at Trakehner Glen a number of years ago and Sandy's obvious dedication to and compassion for all animals was so apparent. She was an excellent rider and trainer, could be blunt at times, but you always knew where you stood with Sandy. She will definitely be missed so very much, and I know wherever she is she is surrounded by her four-legged friends.

I was deeply saddened to read about the passing of Sandy. I first met her at Trakehner Glen where I boarded my horse. She was a very dedicated rider and a fierce competitor winning championships both provincially and nationally. She cared deeply for her horses and was saddened when their careers ended. The last horse she competed with was Elianda (Ellie) at the FEI level.

Sandy was known for her wry sense of humour . She named her truck the Pink Dink and drove it for 29 years. You always knew it was Sandy in the that truck coming down the road!

She also loved to take pictures of sunsets while sitting at the Redneck Pub with a glass of Prosecco and one or two kitties for company.

I think it was our mutual love for kitties where we connected most and it didn’t surprise me that she wanted donations to go to the Meow Foundation.

Sandy- you were important, you made a difference and you will be missed.

I had not seen Sandy in many years, but I always thought of her fondly and every once in a while I would catch a glimpse of her pink truck on the highway. I remember her as a serious but kind person and I appreciated her diligence when it came to the animals in her care. I know she will be missed and my thoughts are with everyone at TG, past and present, who are feeling the loss of their friend.

There was no animal Sandy didn’t cherish, spoil or care for above and beyond anyone’s expectations. In fact it was obvious in Sandy’s world animals came first, people second. Sandy was an accomplished horse person and dedicated employee who went out of her way to look after our horses. I never worried about my horse with Sandy around. Although Sandy was a no nonsense kind of gal we shared many laughs and I looked forward to chatting with Sandy when she was on a break. Sandy was a special individual and one who will be deeply missed. My condolences to all.

Sandy, there are no words. You were a tough nut to crack, but souls as gentle as yours are fragile and require special handling. You allowed me a peek at your softer side and lifted me when i was low - full of fear and self-doubt. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I, too, will try to do some good along my journey. Deepest condolences to all who loved you - there were many.

Sandy did more for the world than she or any of us may have fully appreciated. She cared deeply for every living creature and was wholeheartedly devoted to protecting TG.

She would occasionally text me, encouraging me to look for the moon or to ride outside and take in the view.

A few months ago, I sent her a picture of the sunset through my horse's ears, and she told me it was worth framing. Sandy appreciated the simple pleasures – the full moon, a serene bike path, or a cozy cat snuggle.

I'd do anything to thank her again and express my gratitude for all her efforts. Although I can't go back, I will carry Sandy's wisdom with me and take the time to appreciate the small moments, the people we always expect to be there and share my gratitude freely.

I know her TG family are missing Sandy dearly.

Sending my deepest condolences

May she be resting peacefully.

Sandy Lyndon was a friend, a colleague, someone whose wit and humour was like no else’s. She was an empathetic ear, she was a fellow commiserator over the trials and tribulations of our sport. She would never have called it wisdom but she was a wealth of wisdom delivered as humbly as a person can share their experience. She sacrificed so many nights to be a saviour to the horses and clients of Trakehner Glen. I am positive that in ferrying them to veterinary care, she saved the lives of many beloved horses. She did her best to improve the existence of every cat, dog and horse she met. And she made the days of those of us who worked with her better by being her dry humoured self. She was a person who felt deep appreciation for a good book, a good glass of Prosecco and a sunset. She and I shared a literary love, and she came to visit the library I worked at a few times. I would find her tucked in a corner with books and magazines, and she would always thank me for recommending the space or admire its beauty, and comment on the birds outside the window or how great something from the cafe was. She loved bookstores, and this summer she finally made it to a little local store we had talked about. Shortly after I received a card in the mail thanking me for the recommendation, she had bought it from the bookstore. Not many do that kind of thing. It is written in her obituary that she was a flawed individual. So am I, so are all of us. All I know is that the time that I was lucky enough to spend with Sandy Lyndon made my own flawed existence that much better, and I will be forever thankful to have known her.

Sandy was a friend, co worker and fellow horsewoman. She had a sharp wit and well seemingly tough she had a soft side. She loved cats to her core and was very pleased when I finally ventured to the dark side of cat personhood. We used to sing random 80’s songs while cleaning stalls. The younger staff surely thought; Oh god there they go again. She was a talented rider, trainer and coach. She loved taking photos especially of moody skies and would often text me photos of my two boys. She will be missed…soar high Sandy and rest easy.

Sandy was a very special person who made a significant contribution to the people around her and the animals in her care. I had known her for more than 20 years and we shared a great love of animals. I never worried when I had to be away from the barn as I knew Sandy loved my horse and he adored her. She was an outstanding horsewoman and won many championships on horses she had trained. Sandy would sometimes correct my groundwork or riding but even though she sounded stern it was said with a twinkle in her eye. Sandy will be hugely missed by so many and that will include numerous horses, cats and dogs.

Although, we did not see each other much throughout the years, you were thought of often. Penpals from grade 2 all through into our 20's, and 30's , yearly birthday and holiday messages and cards..I know you didn't believe in Religious stuff or Christmas, I just thought it nice to get something other than bills in the mail. I reread some of my letters and cards that you sent me over the years a couple of weeks ago as I was going through all my treasured momentos .My favorite memory was when you visited my family and I at Savary, I still have the photos and our drawing we all made together to welcome my dad back from being away, so much Fun! And I'll never forget the mistake I made with my camera when I visited with you at the airport, when I thought I had film in it and there wasn't any, we took some fun pictures that I can still see in my head even if we didn't get an actual picture out of it. I was so sorry to miss you when you came to Campbell River on Vancouver Island and just dropped in without letting me know before hand, you always travelled by the seat of yours pants so Fly high Sandy, you were always trying to, even when we were small flapping your arms up and down when you were excited about something.... I bet all the animals you loved throughout the years were there to meet you ! Cheers, you will be greatly missed in the physical world, one day we will see each other again.

I am very saddened by the passing of our dear friend Sandy. Sandy was an incredibly talented horsewoman and avid animal lover. I cherish all the conversations I’ve had with Sandy, especially hearing about her wonderful times on Vancouver Island. She enjoyed the things in life that matter, like beautiful sunsets with a beverage in-hand and four-legged friends. Rest easy Sandy, you will be missed.

Sandy, you will be missed. I will miss you. I will have fond memories when I'm through the sorrow. I already know those memories will surface when I'm at the stable. One memory, in particular, will be the turning on of the light while I groomed. This memory will be cherished and tucked away forever, for it made us both laugh.....every time.

Jill S.