Sandra K. Straayer, age 52 of Grand Rapids, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026. She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Straayer; and beloved cat, Sammy. Sandra is survived by her mother, Judy (Kevin Casey) Straayer; brother, John Straayer; sister, Renee (Chris) Koops; aunts, Elna Alciatore, Martha Straayer Stewart; uncle, Gaston Alciatore; nieces and nephews, Bella Corradini-Straayer, and Cohen Koops.
Sandra lived a life that was anything but ordinary. She embraced every opportunity with energy and curiosity—traveling, building an exciting career, and collecting experiences that she generously shared with others.
Her eye for style and detail in fashion and in the world around her was unmatched, a talent she honed and developed at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. She was curious and adventurous, with a passion for the outdoors and loved to challenge herself through activities like hiking, yoga and running.
Sandra had a natural gift for offering advice, always knowing just what to say and when to say it. Helping people meant everything to Sandra. She was the kind of person who showed up, who listened, and who gave without hesitation. People were drawn to her not only for her wisdom, but for her authenticity and spirit.
She was truly beautiful—inside and out. Her kindness, strength, and vibrant personality left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Sandra’s circle of friends was wide, and her absence will be deeply felt by so many who loved her dearly.
To those closest to her, Sandra was more than a friend—she was family. She was a best friend, a confidant, and a constant source of support and laughter. Her memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons she gave, and the love she left behind.
She will be missed beyond words and loved and remembered forever.
Visitation will take place from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Funeral service will be held after at 1:00 pm. Rev. Daniel Gruenwald officiating.
10 Responses
I’ve known her since kindergarten. Prayers for her family and friends.
i met you when you were 12. i love you Sandy. i will always cherish our memories.
I remember Sandy from high school. She had the best smile ❤️
Devastating end to a beautiful smile. God Speed, Sandra.
Condolences from the Lauria Family. Keep the faith. Strength and Honor.
Mike and Stacie!
Goodbye to my “little sister”. I love you and am so sad to see you leave this life! Your spirit will live on in my memories forever.
I remember meeting Sandy when she was 10 years old-a funny, sweet, sassy girl with beautiful hair who was obsessed with Duran Duran. My heart is broken for Judy, Renee and John. You’re in my thoughts.
Mare Xx
Condolences
I have loved Sandy since the 90s xo we would laugh, dance, discuss art and fashion, we spent time together in NYC as well. I will miss you so much Sandra. May you rest in eternal peace. Every time I listen to Depeche Mode I will be forever thinking of you. You will not be forgotten xoxo
You came into my life like a whirlwind and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I loved being in the moment with you, whatever it was. You always said you wanted to be my cat by the fire. You loved Charlie because to you he was Sammy. That fills my heart how much you loved animals. I loved watching you witness the world. I loved laughing with you, sitting next to you, riding in your BMW, eating Mr. Burger, honking at hotties around the lake, hollering at people getting ice cream, sunbathing in the front yard in bikinis, sitting on the porch and soaking up sun, swordfish on Easter, laying in your bed while you did tasks around the house, calling you, texting you, doing your resume, meeting your other friends on the phone, whistlepopping to snoop in the kitchen, carrot cake, custom floral arrangements from discarded stock, tennis with lcd soundsystem, man you were happy that day. But most of all, your open door (always). You reminded me to think about me. I don’t have many people like that. You lit up my life and it will be hard for me to adjust to my new normal. I simply don’t want to. Until we meet again my friend. I love you. Haunt me anytime. XO