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Obituaries » Sandra L. McElroy

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November 1, 1948 - November 9, 2019

In accordance with her wish cremation will take place, a time of remembrance and celebration will be held at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home on Saturday, November 16, 2019, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kalamazoo Humane Society, c/o the funeral home.

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Sandy passed away on Saturday, November 9, 2019 after a heroic two-and-a-half-year battle against cancer. Parotid surgery, two back surgeries and close to fifty radiation treatments at the University of Michigan could not keep her spirits down. She fought this terrible disease until the end when the cancer metastasized to her brain and rendered her blind for six weeks. Her courage, strength and spirit are an inspiration for those who loved her. Sandy was born and grew up in Portage, MI, the daughter of the late Hilbert and Virginia (Davidson) Hutt. Virginia’s family ran a successful neighborhood cleaner and Hilbert was the General Manager at Gilmore’s car dealership. Sandy was an only child and learned how to make friends early in life, most staying close to her until her passing. She graduated from Western Michigan University and went on to a very successful and rewarding career at The Upjohn Company where she worked in the “Quality of Life” area of Research and Development. Sandy was always impeccably dressed and loved to socialize. She was intimately involved at the Beacon Club where she sat on the Board of Directors for several years. There, she enjoyed working alongside the Club’s owner and her lifelong friend Tom DeGroot. Sandy was responsible for many annual activities including the Festival of Trees, New Year’s Eve party, Kentucky Derby parties and many dances on the deck. He legendary parties were enjoyed by all and gave members an opportunity to meet new friends, enjoy good food and drinks and burn some calories dancing. Sandy always said, “When I need you to carry me to the car, it is time to stop dancing.” Her wonderful smile, kind personality and fun spirit will be missed by all. On September 4, 2004, she married John McElroy who always described her as his best friend and love of his life. She is also survived by two loving sons, J.C. and Todd; tow stepsons, Christopher and Kevin; terrific daughters-in-law, Christina and Amanda; eight grandchildren ranging in age from seventeen to seven, Lindsey, J.C. Francesca, Wyatt, Isabelle, Abigail, Vanessa and Jack. Sandy was a mother figure to all, and she leaves behind many wonderful memories, especially those of Christmas, for her children and grandchildren to cherish.