Sandra L. Pyne

Passed away Thursday morning, July 29, 2021 at her home. Sandra was born February 22, 1944 in Holland, MI the daughter of Cornelius and Reka (Bos) Bontekoe. Sandra attended Ferris State University and Western Michigan University and obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Education and her Master's of Arts in Counseling. She had a long career in education: teaching in Constantine, working as a Guidance Counselor at Portage Adult Education, and teaching in alternative education with the Parchment School District. Sandy tutored through the SLD Center for 50 years and though she officially retired in 2007, she continued her service as a tutor with the SLD Center until very recently. She left a lasting impact on countless students and their families over the years. Sandy most enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and she adored her grandchildren. She loved to travel by road trip or train, and eventually took a seamanship course with the US Coast Guard so she could become the First Mate on the Mosey III with her friend and Captain, Mike Sprik. Together they enjoyed many boating adventures, the most notable of which was the completion of the Great Loop in 2016. Sandy made many new friends on her travels, but also deeply valued her longtime friend and college roommate, Sandy Stephenson; her neighbors; her many cousins; and her former husband and father of her children, Bob Pyne.

Sandra is survived by her children, Katrina Brown, Erika (Robert) Garcia, Robert (Stassi) Pyne, Richard (Emily) Pyne; grandchildren, Gibson and Brennan Brown, Colten and Taylor Pyne, Audri and Ivan Pyne; sister, Brenda (Pat) Battaglia; and several nieces and nephews. Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; a grand-daughter, Ally Brown; and a nephew, Brad Johnson. Sandy's family will greet guests at the Kalamazoo Nature Center's Timber Framed Barn for a Celebration of Life memorial gathering on Sunday, September 12, 2021. The celebration will commence with a eulogy and prayer by Chaplain Marcel Pichot at 2pm and then friends and family are invited to say a few words on behalf of Sandy. Family will receive guests until 4pm. The Kalamazoo Nature Center is located at 7000 North Westnedge Avenue. At the park entrance, inform the attendant that you are there for the memorial gathering. Memorials may be directed to the West Michigan Cancer Center. To view Sandra's personalized webpage please visit https://www.langelands.com.