Obituary: Sandra Locke

Always a hard worker, Sandy held many jobs throughout the Mid-Columbia area, including positions at Diamond Fruit Growers, Jantzen Sportswear, and Sharis. In 1980, Sandy began working at Westside Pipe and Irrigation, where she eventually became manager of the branch location in The Dalles, Ore. Following the closure of The Dalles Westside Pipe store, Sandy finished her employment years at Hanel Lumber Company. It was during this time that she met her true love, Bill Locke.

Sandy and Bill were married in 1991 and enjoyed a happy life together working on their farm in Husum, building houses, traveling, attending equipment auctions, and skiing. They played an active role in the lives of their grandchildren, attending countless sporting events, programs and birthday parties.

Sandy will always be remembered as a strong, independent woman with passionate opinions. She was always ready for fun at a moment's notice, and especially loved playing penny machines at casinos, going to the beach, taking road trips, shopping at garage and estate sales, playing games with friends, and being surrounded by people she loved. Her home was a gathering place for many, full of casseroles, desserts, and her famous peppermint patties. Sandy was a strong presence in the lives of all who knew her and will be greatly missed by those whose lives she touched.

Sandy is survived by her son, Thomas Phelps (Molly); brother, Don Chandler (Janice); grandson, Cody Phelps (Chelsea); grandson, Isaac Phelps (Sophie); grandson, Eli Phelps; granddaughter, Ayden Phelps; grandson, Owen Waits; and great-granddaughter Olivia Phelps (Cody and Chelsea Phelps). She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Locke; son Jerry Phelps; and parents, Thomas and Florence Chandler.

A celebration of life will be held for Sandy at Anderson's Tribute Center in Hood River on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. Her service will be followed by a light lunch, and graveside interment at Idlewild Cemetery in Hood River.

Sandy’s family would like to offer their heartfelt appreciation to caregivers Toni Stencil and Teri Radliff, as well as the amazing nursing staff at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital and the many friends and neighbors who were there to assist her during her final days.