Betty Sandell of South Haven died peacefully Sunday, April 2, 2023, at Meeker Manor Rehabilitation Center in Litchfield where she had lived for two years and three months. She was 90.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at Zion United Methodist Church in South Haven with Pastor Lori Artner officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, at the church. Burial will be at Lake Union Covenant Cemetery. Services will be live-streamed on the funeral home website.
Betty Mae Gunderson was born May 24, 1932, in French Lake Township to John Edwin and Betsy (Olean) Gunderson. She grew up in the Annandale Area. On Aug. 28, 1948, Betty was united in marriage to Franklin Sandell. Together they lived in Annandale before their move to Lake Union where she remained for 70 years. Betty was a homemaker for her family, and she assisted with farming. She enjoyed embroidering towels and pillowcases. Betty was known for her contributions to the church’s bake sales. She had a talent for culinary and baking; some of her specialties included homemade chocolate cake with her chocolate frosting, cinnamon rolls, no-bake cookies, and her goulash. After Franklin’s death, Betty could be found mornings at Mom’s Place in South Haven having coffee and visiting with her friends. She also enjoyed playing cards and, most importantly, spending time with her family.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband, parents, grandson John Jr., sisters Eleanor, Evelyn and Mabel, and brother Albert.
She is survived by her children John (and Joyce) Sandell of South Haven, Gary (and Debbie) Sandell of Cokato, and Paul (and Mary) Sandell of South Haven; four grandchildren Julie (and Rob), Jason, Michael (and Jessica), and Morgan (and Elena); five great-grandchildren Allen (and Allissa), Ashley, Harper, Blake, and Hannah; and one great-great-grandchild Lincoln.
Casket bearers will be Jason, Mike, and Morgan Sandell, Julie, Robert, and Allen Volk, Elena Nicholoff, and Andy Widmark. Honorary casket bearer will be Ashley Volk. Sharon Planer and Jarett Edwards will provide music for the service. Arrangements are with Dingmann Funeral Care.