A familiar fixture around Grace College and Winona Lake, Ind., died this week. Though developmentally challenged, Dean Sandy brought cheer to the lives of many with this enthusiastic singing and his servant’s heart. His father, the late Rollin Sandy, was the much-loved pastor of the Grace Brethren Church in Sidney, Ind., and his brother, Brent, has served as a Grace Brethren pastor and professor at Grace College and Wheaton College. Below is Dean’s obituary.
Ivan Dean Sandy, Winona Lake, passed away at 5:41 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017, at Kosciusko Community Hospital, at the age of 67.
He was born May 27, 1950, in Lebanon, Pa., to Rollin and Omega Hartman Sandy. He lived in Winona Lake for 60 years and worked in the Grace College cafeteria for 44 years. He was often seen riding his mo-ped or golf cart regardless of the weather.
Though faced with various challenges from birth, there was hardly anything he didn’t think he could do (or at least give it his best shot.) He was cheerful, thoughtful and never met a stranger. He especially loved singing, children and dogs.
His favorite sport was watching the Grace Lancers play basketball, along with being their videographer. His favorite privilege was singing the national anthem at sporting events or singing “How Great Thou Art” in the Grace College chapel services.
He was an active member of Winona Lake Grace Brethren Church, served as an usher, worked in children’s ministries, and loved anytime there was something to eat. He faithfully attended early morning church services at Kosciusko County Jail, as well as chapel services at Grace Village Health Care. Every time and every place, he was ready to sing a solo (to the delight of many). He left an indelible mark on people from all walks of life.
He is survived by his brother, Dr. Brent Sandy (wife Cheryl), Winona Lake; two nephews, Jason, London, U.K., and Jaron, Dijon, France (their wives and five children). He was preceded in death by his parents. His body has been donated to science.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Grace Village chapel, 337 Grace Village Drive, Winona Lake. Time for visitation will be a half hour before the service and after the service.
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Memorials to either the Grace College Lancers, 200 Seminary Drive, Winona Lake, IN 46590l or Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree program, make checks payable to Kosciusko County Jail Ministry and write “Dean Sandy Angel Tree Fund” on the memo line. Mail to PO Box 602, Winona Lake, IN 46590.