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Sandra Marie Kowalewich
June 11, 1951 - April 12, 2024
Tribute
Sandra was born to George and Etta Boyd on June 11, 1951, in Vancouver, British Columbia. She spent her younger years in Victoria with her sister Susan and brother Gordon (pre-deceased). After graduating from high school, she attended and exceled at UVIC where she earned a degree with a teaching designate.
As a university graduate, Sandra quickly put her skills to work and taught in communities all over British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. Her thoughtful and caring approach to her students was noted in every district she worked. She cherished her time teaching at Indigenous schools and her specialization in the learning assistance field allowed her to help those in need, something she truly valued. It was one of her early positions as a grade 1 teacher in Gold River where she met her husband Rick in 1973. Together with Rick, Sandra cared for foster children, volunteered for numerous organizations, and educated countless Canadians for decades.
Sandra’s joy came from dogs and horses. Her younger years were filled with equestrian, but Sandra’s true passion was with dogs. She was active in training, showing, and caring for dogs for her whole life. As a coordinator for of the Cowichan Dog Obedience and Training Club, she shared her knowledge by training and participating in nose work, obedience, and rally. As important as animals were to Sandra, she adored and doted on her four grandchildren and provided them with so much love and support.
Sandra passed away at her home in Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia on April 12, 2024. Sandra is survived by and will be deeply missed by her husband Richard, son Damian (Erin), and daughter Megan (Justin). She will always be remembered by her grandsons Dante and Hudson, granddaughters Vienna and Adalyn, sister Susan, nephews Curtis and Ryan, and niece Erin. Of course, her beloved pugs, Hannah, Rauri, and Duchess miss their mom dearly.
A private celebration of life will occur with family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the SPCA or a local Kennel Club.
Condolences
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From: H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre
H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Bella
Relation: Family
Deepest condolences on Sandra’s tragic passing. I know Sandra was a rock in your lives such a special Grandma ❤️. May she always be with you in heart and spirit.
Love , Bella
From: April
My heartfelt condolences to Sandra’s family, including her grandchildren that I know love her dearly. Sandra’s kindness knew no bounds, from baking my favourite cake during pregnancy cravings to crafting cherished blankets for the birth of my children. Her love for dogs was only surpassed by her love for her family, and her passion for both will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. May her legacy of love, compassion, and devotion to family continue to inspire us all.
From: Andrea Stuart
Relation: Dear friend
My deepest sympathy. Sandra was one of the kindest person I have known. Always willing to help and provide support to those in need. She helped ways I have never known.
From: Shelley Evans
Relation: Through scent detection work with Cowichan K9
I was honoured to have Sandra be one of my scent work coaches at Cowichan K9 Noseworks. Her kindness and knowledge instilled confidence, even to complete novices like my dog, Stig and I. Sandra always offered encouragement and helpful suggestions and ended with a “you can do this” inspirational word or two. There is never a good time or a right way to say goodbye, and words always seem so inadequate. My sincere condolences to all who knew and loved her.
From: Blair Kilgour
Relation: Friend and Instructor
Sandra was a special friend Always there to help! and put her all into helping us doing scent work. My blood sugar was super low ! Guess who came to my aid, finding me anything with sugar. Yes Sandra
From: Catherine Dunstan
Relation: through dogs...classes and dog sports.
I am sending my heartfelt condolences to all Sandra’s family and friends. I have known Sandy for many years through dog sports and training classes…she was always happy to help and such a lovely woman. She is missed.
From: Suzanne Armour
Relation: Friend
Sandra was a goddamn delight. She was funny, smart, kind and thoughtful. She was a real one of a kind lady. She loved competing with her dogs but she wasn’t competitive – it was always about the sheer joy of working with your dog. I will miss her big smile and sarcastic sense of humour. It was an honour to call hrr a friend. Sending love to her 2 and 4 legged family.
From: Lindsy Harper Hall
Relation: Friend
My heart absolutely broke hearing of Sandra’s passing. She was a caring, selfless and loving mother, wife, educator and animal lover. May she rest easy. Rick, Damian, and Megan – warmth, hugs and healing. Her legacy lives on through you all and be so proud of what an amazing lady she was. You’ll be missed, Sandra.
From: Kathy Morin
Relation: friend
I’m sorry to hear about Sandra’s passing. It is not easy loosing a loved one especially a mom/wife. Sandra was such a kind person. I remember when you lived in Vanderhoof she stopped by our house and brought me a baby sweater and bonnet that she made for my youngest daughter after she was born. And we stopped by your place once and she introduced my oldest to her horse. My daughter was so thrilled. Hugs to you all.
Service Schedule
Private service arrangements have been made.
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
Thank You Notice
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