August 22, 2024
In loving memory ~
Our beautiful and fearless wife and mother, Sandra Ann Nicolson, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her devoted husband, John; her children, Lisa (Trevor), Scott (Liz), and Kelly (Cobus); and her cherished grandchildren, Willem, Jacqui, and Madelyn.
Sandra was born in 1942 in East Orange, New Jersey, to Frank and Helen Marble. The family later moved to California where she finished high school and earned a Bachelor of Education and began her teaching career.
In 1969, Sandra and John met and fell in love on a beach in Tahiti. They were engaged in Machu Picchu and married soon after, living in Peru, Connecticut, and Saskatchewan. They finally settled down in Summerland BC, where they planted an apple orchard and started a family. For 43 years, they enjoyed their little slice of paradise, surrounded by orchards and friendly neighbors, nurturing a life full of joy with their children, friends, and family.
Sandra was a well-respected teacher at Summerland Secondary School and took great joy in working with her students. Even in retirement, she delighted in reconnecting with former students and hearing about their life journeys. Sandra was also an active community member, volunteering on the board of the Summerland Museum where she enjoyed collaborating with colleagues. Her interests included playing bridge, going for walks, socializing at local coffee shops, and spending quality time with her friends and family. Sandra valued being a dual citizen and remained connected to her American family and friends. Sandra was a devoted member of her church, where she sought a deeper understanding of spirituality and her relationship with God. She loved watching the seasons change on the farm, the smell of apple blossoms in Spring, a cup of tea in the afternoon, making soup on a cool fall day, and reading books to her grandchildren.
Sandra was adored by many for her warmth, generosity, and ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. Her positive outlook, compassionate nature, and kind heart were evident in everything she did. Sandra often encouraged others to go forward "with a smile on your face and a song in your heart". She embodied strength, humility, compassion, kindness, and love. Sandra's remarkable presence as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend will be deeply missed. Her passion for learning and living life to the fullest has left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.