Mary E. Sandbert Obit

MARY E. SANDBERG, 74, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at Ridgeview Hospital in Waconia. Mary went peacefully home to Jesus, surrounded by her husband, children and sister. Mary was born in Brainerd on May 26, 1947. She grew up in the Crosby area, graduated from Crosby-Ironton High School and completed X-ray technician training in the Twin Cities.  Mary was a dedicated worker who had a varied career, including owning a resort, tying fishing lures and owning The Smoke Shop and Book Nook. She enjoyed a medical career as an X-ray and laboratory technician at Brainerd Medical Center, where she worked with an amazing team of people for over 25 years. Family was Mary’s first priority. She traveled to more than 10 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, always to spend time with family members.  She is preceded in death by her beloved mother, Amy Barber, her father, one sister and two brothers. Mary is survived by her loving husband, Benny E. Sandberg, her son, Todd (Christy) Sandberg, daughter, Carrie (Adam) Cuff, sister, Sally (Reggie) Bever, sisters-in-law, Cheryl Barber and Cindy Barber, grandchildren, Brennen and Kindrid Sandberg, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was greatly loved by her family. The hole her passing leaves in our hearts can never be filled. Mary was a woman of faith, active in her church in various ways and always looking for ways to help and encourage others. She had a servant’s heart, placing the needs of others above her own. Her beautifully crafted cards blessed many people. She made her home welcoming and cozy and loved fishing, cooking, cross stitch, table games, puzzles and visiting with all her friends. Though eventually wheelchair bound because of MS, Mary did not let her disease define her; her strength of spirit and cheerful endurance were an inspiration to those around her.  Rejoice with us that she is now dancing on those golden streets! A celebration of Mary’s life is being planned for some time later in 2022.