Notes |
- Sandy (Tank) Schwanke
Mom died on Saturday, December Sixth, yet her spirit lives on. This much we know: she loved Dad; she loved her children and grandchildren; she loved life for all of her seventy-five years.
Sandy and Mike were combined as one for fifty-five years and three months. To say that Dad was her best friend and the love of her life does not do their relationship justice. They shared everything … love, tears, passions, and all of life's great adventures. The memories they made together and for their family are a great legacy that we will cherish forever. Our Mom had a magical way of lighting up the room with her smile or laugh. Her quiet sense of grace, combined with Dad's sense of humor, created an infectious vibe that they readily shared with others.
She treasured her children and prized her grandchildren: Her son, Peter and Jennifer Schwanke and their children, Brian (Marjorie) and Rachel; her son, Pat and Cathy Schwanke and their children, Emily (Ross), Maggie, and Michael; her daughter, Wendy and Bryan Dell and their children, Lindsey and Wade, and her daughter, Sarah(deceased). She was there for each of us with a positive word, a helping hand, and in some cases, a subtle push. Her passion for her family was obvious every day and heightened during the holidays. The traditions she created, like going to Frank's for pizza the night of the Christmas parade, cutting down the perfect Christmas tree, and Shake-of-the-Day at every family gathering, will be part of her legacy.
Mom delighted in the following things: the movies, plays at the PAC, Badger games, Friday night football games at Appleton East, Saturday morning coffee at Copper Rock, trips to New York, searching for new recipes to cook, sharing the recipe for her "world famous" dip, martinis with an olive, date nights at Carmella's with Dad, meeting friends at the Stone Toad (and winning the football pools), spoiling her grand-dogs, reading for pleasure and with children as a United Reading for Success tutor at Richmond Elementary School, growing flowers, Abbott paintings, Rockwell plates, and her Annalee Doll collection.
We were blessed to be part of Mom and Dad's great ride. Thanks, Ma, for everything. We look forward to the time when we can be with you again.
A wake will be held for family and friends to gather and celebrate Sandy's life on Sunday, December 14 from 3:00-6:00 pm at The Stone Toad, 1109 Oneida Street, Menasha.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in her name for the Appleton East High School pantry.
Heroes
Many people's heroes are sports figures. They play at Lambeau Field, Camp Randall, Miller Park, etc. My heroes are my parents who have gone above and beyond to raise our family. Mom, thanks for being my mom. Love, Pete.
Mom,
You were always there for me. I miss you and love you more than words can say. Love, Wendy
Mom, I have our memories stored in my heart. I will keep them safe until we see each other again. Love, Pat.
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