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Don Sandhoff Obituary
November 8, 1952 - June 22, 2022
Durham, North Carolina - On Wednesday, June 22, 2022, Donald Ray Sandhoff, Sr., 69, passed away. He was a loving man who made our world a better place.
Don was born on November 8, 1952 in Flint, MI. He grew up in Bradenton, Florida and graduated from Southeast High School before enlisting in the Army in 1971. For 23 years he traveled the world serving as an Artilleryman and UH-1 pilot. His last duty station was at Fort Bragg where he met his wife, Sue. They married in 1992 and began a journey of a lifetime together. In 1994, Don retired from the Army as a Chief Warrant Officer 3.
Don enjoyed traveling with his wife and exploring our beautiful country. Their adventurous spirits took them to places known and unknown. He had a deep love for family and friends and would often take detours, or plan stays near or with those he knew. Known for his ability to light up a room, Don always kept a smile and positive view. His joy was infectious and he always left people happier than he found them.
Don never lost his passion for flying helicopters. He made the trip every year to West Virginia for the Huey Enthusiasts Reunion, where he would meet with veteran pilots he served, and those he did not. All of them were part of his extended family and one of the greatest joys in his life.
Don is survived by his wife, Sue; his children; Carl Sandhoff (Leanne), Kimberly Sandhoff Nelson (Christopher), AJ May (Lindsay), Ray Sandhoff (Mara), and Biscuit Sandhoff; grandchildren; Ileia, Madison, Kai, Koli, Emma, Macy, Maddox, and Renn; and siblings; Bill Sandhoff (Ginger) and Janet Mixon (Dean). He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Luci Sandhoff.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, August 5, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. at Bayshore Gardens Community Church, 6228 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207.
A Military Funeral Honors Ceremony will be privately held at Sarasota National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions be made to the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Charitable Service Trust.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Don Sandhoff
3 Entries
Betty Efferson
July 26, 2022
I am saddened to learn that this kind & friendly man has passed away.
I met Don through attending the Mixon Fruit Farm festivals where he was assisting the vendors that were setting up.
He did always have a smile for you and was always so helpful & kind.
For many yrs since the festivals, I have enjoyed the FB posts of his travels with his wife & family.
Don will be missed in this life as he has left an impression on our hearts to 'Be Kind'.
May God give the family strength & peace through the journey ahead.
Amanda Vennebush
July 19, 2022
Sending my love and support to Sue, Carl and Kim. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. Don was a wonderful man and always treated me and greeted me with such warmth. He is truly missed!
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