It is with broken hearts that the family of Sandra Christine Velema announces her peaceful passing in the early morning of May 17th, with hands held and surrounded by her children and husband at St. Joseph’s Hospice Sarnia. Sandra, daughter, sister, niece, granddaughter, mother, wife, aunt, and grandmother will be missed tremendously as she was gone too soon at the age of 47 after a 6.5-year courageous battle with brain cancer. Sandra, beloved wife of Robert for 23 years, will be missed and cherished by her children, Kylee (Nicholas), Rachael (Lauren), Adam (Cassie), and adored by her precious granddaughter Ayla Rose.
Sandra, loved so dearly by her Oma, Tina VanReenen, is now reunited with her Opa, Case Van Reenen, in the presence of the Lord.
Treasured daughter of William Van Reenen and Patricia Van Reenen (Gary). Dear sister of Tammy Van Reenen (Ian Ingles, Emily, Robin, and James), and Kevin Van Reenen (Stephanie, Erika, Trisha, and Casey). Aunt Sanny’s warm hugs and many hosted sleepovers will be greatly missed by her nieces and nephews.
Sandra was an avid storyteller whose presence, expressive voice, and ability to make people laugh will be missed by her many aunts, uncles, in-laws (Chris (Adrian), Jodi (Mike), Michael (Terri), Amanda (Matt), and Claire (Joe)), cousins, friends, and church members and groups.
Sandra’s love for animals has been exemplified throughout the years with her love for her Golden Retriever, Esther, and cat companion, Bella, who were always by her side.
Sandra’s philanthropic nature, zest for life, and unconditional love will be missed by the world, as she simply made it a brighter place to live in. Sanny was a life-long supporter who thrived as a childcare provider throughout her life, she has left behind her soft and gentle footprints on the lives of many children; footprints which will last for years to come.
The family would like to give its most sincere thanks to Dr. Kim and the palliative team at St. Joseph’s Hospice and the many staff members of the VON who were with Sandra near the end. Dr. Kim was a guiding light for Sandra and provided the family with compassion, care and understanding when it was needed most. Additionally, the family would like to convey their gratitude to Dr. MacDonald, Dr. Megyesi, and the loving team of London Regional Cancer Program for their consistent care throughout Sandra’s journey.
Sandra is a child of God and throughout her life scripture was of most importance to her. The passage that resonated through her life and meant the most to her and her family was the words of Philippians 4:6-7.
Cremation has taken place. In lieu of a service and funeral the family will be arranging a celebration of life, as Sandra had wanted, on July 24th, 2021. Further details of this event will be provided by the family as the time draws closer. Also, in lieu of a service the family will be arranging a memorial video that will be sent to all those who wish to receive it. They also would like to share a song that gave her comfort as she envisioned what her meeting with God would be like:
www.google.com/search?q=well+done+the+afters&rlz=1C1PRFI_enCA761CA761&oq=well+done+the+afters&aqs=chrome..69i57j46j0l8.
The family invites you to contact them directly to arrange a time to express your personal condolences.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Sandra Christine nee van Reenen Velema May 1st 1974 May 17th 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Sarnia, Province: Ontario
Sincere sympathies from usa possibly a distant cousin…beautiful and moving”