Sandra Rae Kelley, age 66 of Hudson, passed away January 3, 2017 at the Lutheran Home in River Falls. Sandra was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Faith. Formerly of Gunnison, CO and Idaho Falls, ID, Sandra and her brother, Scott made their home in Hudson in 2011. Sandra was born in Glendive, MT on July 23, 1950 to Sam and Shirley (Spencer) Beck. She graduated from Gunnison High School, the Class of 1968. “Sandi”, as she preferred to be called, worked as a realtor for Century 21 for many years. She also owned and operated her own answering service in Vail and Aspen. Her answering service included many famous “Hollywood” people but, her favorite customer was always President Gerald Ford and crew during his vacations in Vail.
Sandi’s favorite pastime was shopping… anywhere. But, her favorite spot, that she called “heaven” was the Mall-of-America. Sandi was all about “bling” and she felt that the Mall-of-America provided her with many opportunities to satisfy her needs. Her family can confirm her years of desire for bling from watching her run up and down downhill ski race courses in her “highly observant” ski coats and hats as she supported and cheered on her daughter, nieces and nephews during their races. Sandi enjoyed travel… anywhere. Her trip in 2015 to Paris, France was her pride and joy trip. She spent hours just gazing up at the Eiffel Tower with all its glory and bling. Sandi enjoyed Yellowstone Park and camping and picnicking with friends and family. She enjoyed parties and get-togethers —not necessary going to them as much, but planning and hosting them. She love adding detail, spark, flamboyancy, and fun to everything— from the parties she hosted to the clothes she wore to the packages she wrapped for Christmas. No matter where she was or what she was doing she was never without her much cherished Coca-Cola.
Sandi developed Rheumatoid Arthritis as a very young adult and battled with the disease for 44 years. As the disease continually worsened through her life, her strength and determination kept her a true fighter even at the end. Anyone who was blessed enough to know her was inspired by her love and appreciation of life.
She is survived by her daughter, Sabrina Kelley; granddaughters, Isabelle and Sterling Brintal; brother, Scott Beck; niece, Danette (Todd) Witzel; and nephews, Robbie (Pam) and Bradley (Lindsay) Williams. She is also survived by other family members including, Deborah, Brenna and Meghan McEntee and Brother In-Law Robert Williams. Sandi was preceded in death by her sister, Sydney Williams; and her parents.
Sandi was an incredibly spirited and feisty woman who will be sorely missed by family and friends. A Memorial Gathering Honoring Sandi’s Life will take place 2:00 PM Saturday, January 7, 2017 at the Lutheran Home Chapel, 640 N. Main St., River Falls. Private interment will take place.