Sandy was born on June 5, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Fred and Marie (Parenteau) Thomas. She was raised in Chicago and lived most of her life in the suburbs. On April 25, 1964, Sandy was married to Ralph Hellinga. Together they had two children and many adventures.
Sandy worked for many years at St. Paul Federal Bank in Chicago.
Sandy enjoyed going to craft shows, cooking, travel, and, most of all, spending time with her family and friends. Christmas was her favorite holiday. Every year in December she would bake an epic amount of Christmas-themed cookies. Sandy adored her grandchildren and took delight in their lives. She was part of a poker club with several friends that met monthly for a couple of decades.
Sandy was a proud member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa.
Preceded in death are her brother Duane Thomas; parents Fred Thomas and Marie Thomas. Surviving are her husband Ralph; her 2 children Richard (Stephanie) and Elizabeth (Rob); 3 grandchildren, Henry Nawyn-Hellinga, Zach Nawyn-Hellinga, and Vivian Harris; and her sister Sharon Costello.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in the Chicago area. Memorial contributions in Sandy’s name may be directed to the American Indian College Fund. https://collegefund.org/
