Obituary of Sandra Johnson

June 25, 1953 – Bengough, Saskatchewan

December 30, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Sandra “Sandie” Johnson, an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, nurse, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 30, 2024, at the age of 71, after a fierce battle with cancer.

Born on June 25, 1953, in Bengough, SK, Sandie was the youngest of seven siblings. She spent her early years on the family farm, where her warmth, thoughtfulness, and strong values were rooted.

After spending her school years in Bengough, Sandie moved to Regina, SK, to attend the Grey Nuns School of Nursing, graduating as a registered nurse in 1973. She spent much of her career as an operating room nurse, first at the Plains Health Centre in Regina and later at the Peter Lougheed Hospital after the family moved to Calgary, AB, in 1999.

Over decades of dedicated service, Sandie earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues for her skill, professionalism, and compassion. She formed many deep and lasting friendships, cherished long after her retirement in 2014, concluding a rewarding and meaningful career.

In 1974, Sandie met the love of her life, Terry Johnson. The two married in 1976, building a beautiful life together over 47 years. They raised two wonderful children, Kimberly and Garett, and later became proud grandparents to five grandchildren, who were the light of Sandie’s life. She treasured every moment spent with her grandkids, hosting sleepovers, crafting, baking, and playing endless games together, creating memories they will hold dear forever.

Sandie and Terry shared a love of travel and adventure. Their journeys took them across the world, from safaris in Africa to unforgettable cruises. Winters spent in Arizona were among their happiest times, filled with laughter, dinners, games, and activities that reflected their vibrant, social lifestyle. Wherever they lived, Sandie was the heart of their community, her warmth and hospitality drawing people in and forming lifelong friendships.

Sandie’s talents were endless. She was an incredible cook and baker, creating meals and desserts that brought people together. She enjoyed sports, including golf and pickleball, where she was known for her good sportsmanship, always fostering a fun and inclusive environment.

Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, a reflection of her generous spirit. She took exceptional care of her possessions, ensuring nothing ever went to waste. Sandie’s resourcefulness and attention to detail reflected her deep respect for preserving and appreciating what she had. She was never idle, always keeping her mind and body active.

The sudden and unexpected loss of her husband Terry in July of 2023 was devastating to her and her family, marking a profound moment of grief they had never before experienced. Sandie’s incredible emotional strength allowed her to focus on what she still had, spending meaningful time with her loved ones and drawing on the support of her family and friends.

Shortly after Terry’s death, Sandie was given a shocking diagnosis of gallbladder cancer early in 2024. Despite this, she faced her illness with courage and grace, determined to spend as much time as possible with her family and friends. Her love and strength were evident in every visit, every smile, and every cherished moment shared in her final months.

Sandie is survived by her children, Kimberly (Ryan) and Garett (Hilary); grandchildren, Kier, Elena, Ewan, Arthur, and Bethany; siblings, Ilien, John (Rose), Wayne, and Doreen (Wally); many nieces and nephews; and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Sandie is predeceased by her husband, Terry; parents, Myrtle, and Hans; stepfather, John; siblings, Viola, and Richard; parents-in-law, Arthur, and Leta; and brother-in-law, Lynden.

Sandie’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and resilience. She instilled in her family the importance of strong values, hard work, and thoughtfulness. She will be remembered for her infectious warmth, her resourceful nature, and her unwavering commitment to those she loved. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her impact will be felt forever.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Provincial Office, Sun Life Place, 710, 10123 – 99^th Street, Edmonton, AB T5J 3H1 Telephone: 1(866) 412-4222, or to KidSport Canada - Alberta, Box 36107, Lakeview RPO, Calgary, AB T3E 7C6 Telephone: 1-(888) 91-4kids or (403) 217-3761, www.kidsportcanada.ca.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Although black is more traditional, Sandie loved colour. The family would welcome colourful attire.

Please send special stories and photos to the email address: memoriesofsandie@gmail.com and indicate if you would prefer this to be shared during the Celebration of Life or privately with the family.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Sandie’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

Condolences, memories, and photos may also be shared and viewed with Sandra’s family here.

In living memory of Sandra Johnson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB T2Z 4E6, Telephone: 403-203-0525.

Click to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Sandra Johnson's Funeral Service