Sandy Lee Schmunk died June 16, 2021 at her home after a long journey with cancer. Born in Detroit, on November 20, 1948 to Myron and Shirley Carlson, she was nurtured by her grandmother, Dorothy Harrison, and, in turn, shepherded her younger sisters, Vicki and Dottie. Sandy graduated from Cherry Hill High School in 1966 and then attended Eastern Michigan University. She married Charles Schmunk on February 3, 1968.
Although Sandy’s life was shortened by cancer, her impact on others was lengthened by her spirit of service. Sandy was a long-time presence at Chelsea Retirement Community (CRC), serving 25 years in several roles, including Activity Director, Social Worker, and Assistant Administrator. She was instrumental in the development and administration of CRC’s Towsley Village. Later, Sandy played a key role in organizing “Joe’s Memory Arts Café” at Huron Woods. Beyond her professional life, Sandy volunteered as Girl Scout Troop Service Director for Chelsea, a troop leader for older girls, and later for residents at CRC. She was devoted to her church community at Chelsea First United Methodist and served over the years as Sunday school teacher, youth group leader, Women’s Society of Christian Service president, lay leader, and so much more. Close friends appreciated her humble leadership, calming influence, sense of humor, inclusiveness, and steadfast love. She was a visionary, patient laborer, and a companion on life’s journey; guided by love, compassion, and humility. Sandy listened openly and gently, inwardly discerning God’s mission in the world, but was not afraid to speak succinctly and boldly for justice. She was grounded in daily devotion and deep spiritual practice.
Together, Sandy and Charles raised and launched their three children into the world by modeling a loving partnership. Sandy supported each of her children in shaping their own parenting, while pouring love, and more love into her seven grandchildren. She was first a cheerleader for all of her children’s sports and performing arts adventures, and then became an enthusiastic encourager of each of her grandchildren and their diverse interests. Sandy enjoyed travel, reading, gardening, and baking amazing angel food cakes with custard!
Sandy’s legacy is carried on by her husband of 52 years, Charles, her children Susan Amick (Jack) and their children Evelyn and Samuel, Dana Schmunk (Eileen) and their children Charlotte, Aila and Caroline, and Betsy Olberg (Derek) and their children Clinton (Essa) and Kara. She is also survived by her father Myron Carlson (Cindy), her sisters Vicki (Don), Dottie (John), her step-sister, Sara (Angelo), and a host of nieces and nephews. She will be missed by her beloved friends, along with all the families she has touched in the Chelsea Community, especially the many members of her church family at Chelsea First United Methodist Church.
Memorial donations may be directed to Chelsea First United Methodist Church, 128 Park St, Chelsea, MI 48118 or Faith In Action, 603 S. Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118. Visitation will be at Cole Funeral Chapel on Friday, June 18, 6:00-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 19, 2:00-4:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 21st - please call 734-475-1551 to reserve a place at Sandy's memorial service, and all people attending will be asked to wear a mask.
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