Obituary
Sandra “Sandy” Kay Loken
It is with profound sadness that the family of Sandra “Sandy” Kay Loken announces her passing on July 20, 2019 at the age of 73 after a short battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, WI.
Sandy was born in Winona, MN on January 7, 1946 to Louis and Adeline Luksa. From childhood, she had a love for the outdoors and would share many memories of fishing with her father, or as she referred to him as “Pa.” On March 14, 1967, she married Stuart Loken and raised two daughters in Holmen,WI and remained a resident of the area until her passing. Sandy and Stuart later divorced. Sandy was a long time employee at Netwal Dental Lab, where she had many lifelong friends, although she would say that the greatest part of going to work was knowing that she would be joined everyday by her youngest daughter, Nikki.
Sandy had a way of finding the beauty in the simple things. In a busy world, she had the ability to slow life down and focus on the things that truly mattered. She was very fortunate to be able to take several tropical vacations to the Caribbean, where she could easily lose track of time searching for seashells on the beach. When she was home, she enjoyed reading and putting together puzzles. Up until her illness, Sandy enjoyed dancing in the Zumba Gold class at the Onalaska YMCA with her wonderful group of friends. Another pleasure she had was sipping on a McDonald’s hazelnut iced coffee, a true favorite of hers. But more than anything, Sandy loved spending time with her family. Her greatest joy in life were her daughters, sons-in-laws, granddaughters, and great-granddaughter. She would have given everything for their happiness, and did just that until her final days.
Sandy is survived by her daughters, Wendy (Joel) Celey and Nicole (Mark) Craig, granddaughters, Tayler (Zach) Gaines, Shelbi Craig and Sydney Craig, great-granddaughter Adaliah “Addie” Jo Gaines, sister, Janice Howe and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind many beloved friends.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, Louis and Adeline Luksa, and two brothers, Wayne Luksa and Butch Luksa.
A memorial service will take place in honor of Sandy on Thursday, July 25, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. in the Prairie Room, at the Gathering Place, 133 Mason St., Onalaska, WI, with visitation being held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Pastor Ted Dewald will be officiating.
The family would like to express extreme appreciation to the staff at Gundersen Lutheran. And a very special thank you to Bre for making Sandy’s final hours that of comfort and peace. Our family will be forever grateful for her extraordinary compassion.
To view or download Sandy’s memorial video, please copy and paste the link below into your web browser.
https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/C9559FG76QJCCZKP
It hurts to think I will never see Sandy again. I feel fortunate to have known her and I valued our friendship. My heart goes out to Wendy, Nikki and the family for the great loss of their Mom. She is gone but will always be remembered.
Sandy was a precious friend. So easy to be around. I will miss her kind and generous spirit immensely.
I will miss my dear Zumba friend, Sandy. We shared many coffee discussions, movies, lunches. I will always remember her laughter, pretty finger nails and always perfect hair, although she never thought so.
I’m saddened to learn of Sandy’s passing. Time seems to get away and connections aren’t always kept up, so I had not known of her illness. I met her at the lab and always thought of her as a pleasant, kind, talented, and lovely woman. My sincerest sympathies are extended to the family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Sandy was so sweet and always had a smile on her face.I send my prayers. May god help you all with your healing and comfort.
Nikki you spent a lot of great times qith your mother and I know you will miss her happy spirit. My prayers are with all of you! Wayne and Renee Valk Family
Nikki,
So sorry for your loss. I have great memories of your mom picking us up after middle school. My prayers with you and your family.
JoAnne Damaschke
I was lucky to be married to her for 49 years l haves always love her and I always will Sandy’s is now in Heaven watching over family now
My deepest sympathy to Stuart and family . Sandy was a wonderful person. My prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss Stu.
Sandy was a wonderful person Linda and I have known her and Stu many years. She is resting in Jesus’ arms now!
Charlie and I are sharing in your sadness at the loss of your mom, our Aunt.
Tho she lived miles away, the times we were together were filled with so much fun and laughter. Dad didn’t talk much about their childhood, so I depended on Sandy, and their sister, Janice, to tell
me their stories of them when they were kids. And the colorful pictures they would paint with their stories, put you right there with them. Sandy’s laughter will never be forgotten, and we will miss her terribly.