Sandra Louise Ihrig

1950 - 2017

Sandra Louise Ihrig obituary, 1950-2017, Seattle, WA

BORN

1950

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Sig's Funeral & Cremation Services

809 W Orchard Drive, Suite #2

Bellingham, Washington

Sandra Ihrig Obituary

Sandra Louise (Tweeddale) Ihrig

Sandie was born in Wenatchee, Washington, on October 21, 1950, the daughter of Ed and Betty Tweeddale. She passed peacefully at her Redmond, Washington home at 3:30 AM, on July 8, 2017, in the presence of her husband Garry.

Raised in Everett, Washington, educated in Everett schools, and lovingly influenced by her parents, extended family, community, and membership in the 1st Baptist church, Sandie was a smart, intelligent woman, appreciated for her honesty, kindness, generosity, charity, and loving spirit.

A career US government employee, she worked in Stratcom, Federal Fish and Wildlife, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), US Postal Service (USPS), and finally the Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services (CMS). Sandie was widely known and valued for her knowledge base and willingness to help others; both by her agency teammates and especially by many frustrated citizens lost in the intricacies of government regulations. She relished this aspect of her duties, and providing help gave her the greatest job satisfaction. She was so driven to this service, that reluctantly, she was forced to concede defeat due to her failing health, and only then, did she finally retire on April 30, 2016.

Sandie is survived by her husband Garry, daughter Marita Zyskowski (Mike), sons Robert (Michelle), and Jeremy, grandsons Zachary, Aden, Landyn, granddaughters Mandy and Irelyn, great grandson Alucard, and sister Candis (Candy) Tweeddale. She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty (2013), and Ed Tweeddale (2015).

Sandie's greatest love and concern was for children, both her own, and on occasion, those who lost their guiding star. She wept for the children who were lost to their families, and so opened her heart, her purse and at times her home to those who needed shelter, care, and a chance to regain their footing. She will be sorely missed by all her family, both by her bloodline and those bestowed by God to her care.

Internment services will be held at Tahoma National cemetery where Sandie and Garry will eventually be reunited, and then together again, wait to be gathered unto Christ.

A memorial for Sandie will be held at the Lytle house in Bothell Landing park, Bothell Washington, August 13, 2017 at 12 PM to 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the American Cancer Society in her name.

Sign Sandra's online guestbook at

www.Legacy.com

Published by The Seattle Times on Aug. 2, 2017.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

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Memories and Condolences
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Remembering Sandra and sending love to her family..One of my favorite customers at Albertson's!

terry greenberg

Family

July 27, 2021

I loved Sandy and looked forward to her and Gary's store visits! I miss her love, cheerfulness and giving heart. She is dancing with the angels for sure...

TERESA GREENBERG

Friend

July 27, 2019

Dearest Mom ~ There is so much to say, but nothing as profound as the simplest, I miss you and I love you!

Thank you for your hugs, your words of comfort over the years, and holding me close in your heart every day.

Your pumpkin, your daughter, Marita

Marita McBride-Zyskowski

July 27, 2019

God called Sandie to my mind today. I worked with her for 12 years at CMS, and at the time of my departure in 2014, she was struggling with her health. She was courageously showing up for work to continue her dedicated commitment to helping others. Sandie was a thoughtful and caring person and I am sure she is sorely missed by many. Her name came to mind today and I am saddened to learn she lost her health battle, but am comforted to know that she is with her loving Savior, and will be reunited with friends and family some day.

Nannette Maxwell

February 23, 2019

I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. One day many will have the opportunity to live again. May the hope of everlasting life sustain and comfort you during this difficult time. John 17:3


Sincerely, F.Mitchell

July 5, 2018

My Dear Aunt Sandy,
Though we've been in two different states for most of my life I've always carried the special years we lived in the same area. My most memorable memory was the year I turned 16. You and I went birthday shopping at Fred Meyers, where I picked out my first pair of nice jeans and you introduced me to the Reuben sandwich which I was a little sceptical about but willing to try it after your reassurance. As promised the sandwich was delicious. You'll never know how special that day was to me or how special YOU made it. Rest in peace you'll forever live on in my heart.

Kim Martin

August 16, 2017

It was my privilege to work with Sandie for many years at Health Care Financing Administration, later known as Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services. She was both a wonderful co-worker and friend.

My two favorite memories are of how she almost always knew the answer to the trivia question I included in the daily division news letter. There was never any question about whether she had googled the answer or just knew it because she always included the background of how she came to have that tidbit of knowledge!

Even more memorable is what a sweet friend she was. When I first moved out to Marysville, there was a snowstorm while we were at work. She and Garry told me to catch the bus to Redmond where they met me and then drove me all the way home!

She was one of a kind and I am honored to have known her.

Carolyn Kendall

August 10, 2017

I worked with Sandie at CMS, but in a different division than hers. I will never forget the countless times that a passing hello in the hallway turned into a 20 minute conversation...a conversation about anything and everything. It was hard to stop the conversation because no matter what we were talking about, work, home life, fund-raising, there was no mistaking that Sandie truly cared. It's hard to turn away from such a loving soul. It's been hard not seeing you for a while now Sandie, and now even harder knowing you have passed. I will take solace in knowing you are at peace and free of pain, but never free of the love that goes with you, as your love stays with us. Thank you for being you, Sandie.

Erin Cassady

Coworker

August 8, 2017

They broke the mold when they made Sandie. She had a compassionate heart that knew no limits. She was always nearby when a helping hand was needed and it was never just a hand-out, it was a leg-up.

If you needed someone to listen, Sandie was there. If your little girl needed clothes to start school, Sandie magically produced beautiful handmade outfits. Should help be needed navigating the waters of government home health care, Sandie was your go-to woman.

While I contemplate the loss of Sandie here on earth, I am certain God's angels have added one more beautiful soul to their midst.

Rest in Peace, Sandie. Thoughts and prayers to the Ihrig Family.

Bonnie Terry

August 7, 2017

I worked with Sandie for nearly 17 years and I could always count on her for if I needed help. If I ever had a question about a Medicare policy she would always come up with an answer! She was extremely detail oriented and always willing to assist with any project.

Her compassion and generosity with her time and treasure knew no limits. She always helped with charity drives at our office and was supportive of all the employees' kids fundraising efforts (she purchased many a package of Girl Scout cookies from my daughter!). She was truly kind and a great team player.

I would often marvel at what a great job she did in assisting Medicare beneficiaries and their families. She was compassionate and always tried to provide accurate information to those she helped.

Part of our job here at CMS is to assist congressional offices with their Medicare casework and Sandie was a pro. Prior to coming to CMS I worked for a wonderful congressman who felt that casework was one of the most important jobs in the congressional office. He used to always say, "There is a special place in heaven for caseworkers." I am sure he is right and that is where Sandie is.

I am so sorry for the loss of Sandie --
a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, colleague, and friend. Sandie was one of a kind.

Shawn Hanson

August 7, 2017

To my twin cousin...
Even though we never were able to spend a lot of time together, I thought of you often. Maybe because we shared our birth date, I always felt close to you. I remember well the time spent with you and your family when I visited in 1969. (Hard to believe it was that long ago.) We had such a good time visiting all your favorite places. You had such a great outlook on life and i remember your beautiful smile. But life goes on and we lost touch. For that I am sorry. Rest in peace my dear cousin.
Love, Karen

Katen Brennan

Family

August 7, 2017

Standing at the window, and watching the sunrise that sad morning on the 8th of July, I was struck by how absurd life is. How was it possible that something so devastatingly painful to my family, and the loss of everything that gave my life meaning, not have more of an impact on the earth Itself. Yet, everything was exactly the same; a breeze still fluttered the leaves; the stars still faded as the sun appeared; small creatures still stirred to life in the trees. But my existence, was irrevocably changed once our paths diverged. Why could there not be some small acknowledgement from an uncaring world to mark her achievements and note her passing. Perhaps, just perhaps thats why God created tears the way He did. Tears are largely unnoticed by those not directly involved, but they will leave her epitaph written in indelible marks on the broken hearts of those she left behind. At daybreak, I had an occasion for a small smile, when a thought occurred to me that If a person's passage to Heaven is paid for by the tears of those who mourn, then Sandie would surely have preferred seating, and a first class ticket.

In tears we watched you sinking,
We watched you fade away,
You suffered much in silence,
You fought so hard to stay,
You faced your task with courage,
Your spirit did not bend,
But still you kept on fighting,
Until the very end.

God saw you getting tired
When a cure was not to be.
So, He put his arms around you,
And whispered, "My child, come with me,"
And when we saw you sleeping
So peacefully free from pain
We could not wish to call you back
To suffer more again.

Rest well, my beloved Sandie, rest well
I will eternally love you

Garry Ihrig

Spouse

August 4, 2017

May you be at peace.

Sandy McGrath

August 3, 2017

My sincere condolences to the Ihrig Family for their loss. I have many happy memories of time spent with Sandie. She was a good friend with a big heart. We were coworkers at CMS. She was always willing to share her knowledge via training, mentoring etc. Sandie's memory will always be cherished. Much Love,

Sharon Roulst

August 3, 2017

This is our favorite and beloved Grandma Sandie! She blessed us daily with her love, smiles, laughter, hugs and special kisses! We love you and miss you dearly Grandma! Thank you for all the wonderful memories Grandma! Love from your pumpkins!

Grandchildren, Landyn and Irelyn Zyskowski

August 3, 2017

My Condolences to the Ihrig Family. Sad news, but good memories of past years are ours to keep.

George Breckenridge

August 3, 2017

With all of my love and sorrow, I wish we had more time with you! We will always love you Aunt Sandie!
Xoxo
Jamie

Jamie McGrath-Mansell

Family

August 2, 2017

Sandy was a favorite customer and friend of Albertson's for many years. She was always positive and uplifting even during her most trying physical battles. I so remember how often she would tell me to pay for someone's groceries with her funds quite anonymously. Her loving heart and strong spirit will be sorely missed. I am gonna dance with her one day in heaven. Love to her family..Terry

Terry Greenberg

August 2, 2017

We have known the Ihrigs' for over thirty-five years. Sandy will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her. Our heart felt condolences go out to all the Ihrig family.

Greg & Patty Fisher

August 2, 2017

I have been friends of Garry and Sandie for 15 yrs. We spent fun times together may she Rest In Peace. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

Ellen Reed

Friend

August 2, 2017

I and my family were exceptionally lucky to get to know Sandy for the past few years. She was a matriarch in every sense of the word and a true champion of family.
She was a glue that kept her family together and will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to have met her.
Our loss will have to be tempered by all the great memories and stories that she left us. I, for one, will look forward to every fishing trip I take with her husband Garry, just so I can enjoy more stories of Sandy and Garry in their youth!
Sandy, we love you and will miss the life you brought to all occasions. Thank you for all you did for us.
Love,
The Wolcotts, Jere, Toni and Audrey.

Jeremy Wolcott

Family

August 2, 2017

Sandie is my sister and I will miss her tremendously. She is resting peacefully in the arms of the Lord. Love Always

Candy Tweeddale

Sister

August 2, 2017

I worked with Sandie for the past 8 years at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She was a dedicated servant of the public, detail-oriented, and very much a team player. In short, Sandie was the kind of public servant we all aspire to be, something I hope her family can take great comfort in at this time of loss. I will miss her.

Rod Haynes

August 2, 2017

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Memorial Events
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Aug

13

Memorial Gathering

12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Lytle house

Bothell Landing park, Bothell, WA

Funeral services provided by:

Sig's Funeral & Cremation Services

809 W Orchard Drive, Suite #2, Bellingham, WA 98225

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