Sandra May Fuerst

(nee Gunning)
1955 ~ 2022

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother and daughter, Sandra Fuerst (nee Gunning). Sandy passed away at the Selkirk General Hospital on January 5^th, 2022 at 66 years old with her children by her side.

She will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by her children; Gavin (Melissa) and Hollee Sachvie (Ryan); and six grandchildren: Teagan, Payton, Hyden, Drue, Dielle and Emree. She is survived by her mother Audrey Singbeil and brother, Denis Gunning (Judy). She was predeceased by her fathers, Benny Gunning, Ozzy Ostwald, Ray Singbeil and her sister in law, Diane Gunning.

Sandy was born in Beausejour on January 12, 1955. She attended school in Thalberg, MB and later in Beausejour, where she graduated in 1973 from Edward Schreyer school. She married Gayard Fuerst in 1974, and the two lived in Beausejour until they found their home where they wanted to raise a family in Cromwell. Sandy and Gayard had two children, Gavin and Hollee.

Mom loved movies, music and working outside doing any type of yardwork. She was very competitive in lawn darts and any kind of card game, where you often had to pay close attention in case she tried to pull a fast one on you. Our childhood was filled with family and friend get togethers which we always enjoyed… but getting ready was almost more fun. Mom would spend time picking out her outfit, put on the record player, get out the mirror and we would dance in the mirror to make sure every angle looked just right. We will always fondly remember our family trips- specifically our Arizona and Disney trip.

Sandy had many challenges in her life that she strived to work through, but regardless of what she was going through, she was always thinking of her family. She had a very big heart, choosing to go without if it meant helping others.

Pictures of her children and grandchildren filled her walls, photo albums, and Facebook –  If there is one thing we know for sure, it was that she was very proud of us.

She held a special place in each of her grandchildren’s heart. They loved her more than anything, and will always remember her sleepovers at our homes and being so excited waking up in the morning knowing Gramma was there. She spent 1:1 time with each of the kids, listening to their stories and playing their games…whatever the kids wanted, she would do.

Sandy cherished her trips to Kelowna where she got to visit her Mom and Ray. She would talk often of the daily walks, great food and the beautiful weather.

Nothing gave Sandy more happiness than to provide gifts to those she loved. She constantly shopped for the ideal gift. She was so giving and worked so hard to find the perfect gift for everyone. She also loved telling us stories of the ‘good old days’, which often ended in us poking fun at her as she remembered everyone and every specific detail. Anyone who knew Sandy, knew that she was easy to talk to. Always interested in what you were doing, she would chat happily for hours, always engaged and truly listening.

Mom, you are beautiful inside and out. We thank you for everything that you have done for us. We will always remember and miss you dearly, but are comforted to know that you are at peace. 

A private celebration of her life will be held on her birthday, January 12th with her immediate family.

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