Sandra 'Sandi' M. Van Aken, 78

On June 29, 1946, in Kalispell, Sandra 'Sandi' M. Van Aken was born into a world she would eventually touch with her enduring kindness and strength. Growing up in a close-knit community, she carried forward the values instilled in her by her parents, Mart and Adeline Weaver. Sadly, Sandi passed away on Oct. 1, 2024, at the age of 78, with family by her side.

Sandi attended Flathead High School, and that was when she met her husband, from Whitefish, Tom Van Aken. Together they had three children, Tom, Kriti and Heath. The family lived in Whitefish and enjoyed living the farm life at Van Aken Gardens, the vegetable truck farm till 1989. Sandi and Tom senior moved to Terrebonne, Oregon and ran a very successful turf farm till 2015. They walked hand in hand for 59 remarkable years. Through life's various paths, from sunlit days to stormy nights, their bond was a testament to true partnership and lasting love. Together, they built not only a beautiful life but also a family, which became Sandi's proudest achievement.

As a mother, Sandi's pride lay in her children and grandchildren: Tom M. Van Aken, Heath A. Van Aken, and Kristi A. Ramos, grandchildren Tyler and Ryan Ramos, Carver and Kendall Van Aken, and two great-grandkids. She instilled in them a spirit of independence while nurturing in them a stubborn strength, traits they carry forward in her memory.

Sandi was a strong-willed and caring woman, whose conviction guided her in standing firm for what she believed in. Her loyalty was unwavering, and her capacity to care for those in need was respected and deeply appreciated by all who knew her. Her friends and family often found support and encouragement in her open arms and generous heart.

Her legacy of love will persevere in the lives of her family and everyone who had the privilege of cherishing her presence. Though Sandi was preceded in death by her parents Mart and Addie, her brothers Don, Glenn, Bill and Art, and her sister Kathi, the values they shared with Sandi shine brightly in the way she led her life.

Sandi’s family will hold a private celebration of life next spring to honor her memory and celebrate the remarkable person she was. Though words cannot fully capture the essence of Sandi's soul, her family wishes to express their unending love and appreciation for the matriarch who guided their lives. Mom, we love you deeply and will miss you always.