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James Sandstrom Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Sandstrom
Craig Sanders LTCR, USAF
August 13, 2022
You are still in our thoughts and memories. Fly with the angels, you are surrounded with friends and family.
Sean Andrews
October 30, 2013
Dear Mrs. Sandstrom,
I doubt you remember me, but my wife and I met you at Sandy's going-away event at Hill - I crewed his jet.
I ran into him while deployed to Dhahran. I was in line at the flightline chow hall, and he tugged my sleeve from behind and said, "I need a good crew chief. Know anyone?" He then spent a good 30 minutes with me, standing in the middle of the chow hall and catching up.
I ran into him again on the Randolph flightline during an airshow. He was, of course, surrounded by gads of folks, but I got his attention, and he again spent a good 30 minutes catching up. On that occasion, when I asked about how you were doing, he said, "If you can believe it, she's ten years in remission." How time flies.
He was a great boss, and always treated me as a good friend. I was deeply saddened to learn of his loss. I pray you are well and that God blesses you with continued strength, comfort and peace.
All the very best,
Sean & Leigh Andrews
August 17, 2011
Dear Jeannie,
You are always in our thoughts and prayers. Love you ,Cindy and Mike
February 7, 2011
Jeannie,
Diane and I did not know you were in Texas until we read that Sandy had left us.
We have been here in College Station since our CINCPAC tour in 1991. My work takes me to Kelly (former AFB) in San Antonio on a regular basis.
I am sorry that we never reconnected. Sandy was one of the folks I enjoyed working with the most. He knew which things were important and those are the tasks we did first.
Fairwinds,
Thom Holt
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Carl Kohntopp
January 22, 2011
Dear Jeannie, Kelly and Brett,
I was shocked today when I finally read Checkpoints today and saw that Sandy went to a better place. Jacquie and I have you all in our hearts and prayers. He was too young to go. I will always remember the things he taught me during that year and a half in San Antonio. He would laugh at the thought that I refuse to wear my blues on "Blues Mondays". Sandy was the best boss that I ever had and I talk about him often and can only hope that I pass on the same leadership qualities that he had. Only because of him I am where I am at today. The stories of his past were priceless. He will be missed.
Lt Col Carl "Beldar" Kohntopp, Jacquie, Lauren, Chandler and Anelise
[email protected] (Please e-mail me and I will send pictures from our trip to the UK...I even have one with you in it!)
USAFA Class of '93
Lord, guide and guide the men who fly
Through the great spaces of the sky;
Be with them traversing the air
In darkening storms or sunshine fair.
Thou who dost keep with tender might
The balanced birds in all their flight,
Thou of the tempered winds, be near,
That, having Thee, they know no fear.
Control their minds with instinct fit
What time, adventuring, they quit
The firm security of land;
Grant steadfast eye and skillful hand.
Aloft in solitudes of space,
Uphold them with Thy saving grace.
O God, protect the men who fly
Through lonely ways beneath the sky.
Grace Fasolo Malacrida
January 13, 2011
Dear Jeannie,
I was very sorry to hear that your husband passed away. I am sure you have encountered so many in the military that it is hard to remember all of us.
Your husband was my very first boss in the military when he commanded the 430th at Nellis. He was an exceptionally patient man with this very young and naive 2d Lt. He was a wonderful boss to have; and I was fortunate to have had him as my first. I did many foolish things. He would call me into his office and point out other options I could have explored before making my decisions. I always appreciated his patience.
Wishing you and your family much strength as you begin your journey of grief.
Brent and Meredith Brockinton
December 31, 2010
Mrs. Sandstrom and family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I loved working for and with you both. I'm still passing on all the lessons Sandy taught me. God bless you.
Bill (Shade) Jump '70
October 7, 2010
Rat Rand, Jim Craig, Rod Jones, Steve Hall and I knew him as Dirt Bag. And we loved him dearly. I last saw him 1973 in San Bernardino, along with Rat. You must contact me for the hilarious details since they are not appropriate here. When I learned that he was a general officer I fell out of my chair!! He was a tremendous person and a wonderful friend.
Dan Fucci
October 7, 2010
Dear Jeannie,
I just found out Jim has gone west. "Bags" and I were in the same pilot training class at Sheppard AFB. Over the years our paths crossed many times and I always considered Jim a real hero. It was a pleasure to fly on his wing.
Jim was an exellent leader and a one of the good guys.
I am sorry for your loss--our loss.
Bob Dwyer
October 4, 2010
Dear Jeannie,
I just now learned the sad news of Jim's passing. Laura and I will hold you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Your old friend and neighbor from Luke AFB BOQ.
Bill and Sue McKechnie
September 29, 2010
Jeannie
Sue and I were deeply saddened to hear of "General Sandy's" sudden passing. I was fortunate enough to see him in DC this past Spring for the first time since our days at Randolph. He was his same old friendly genuine self, asking all about how the McKechnie family was doing. I had the honor of being his exec for 18 months when he was the J3 at CENTCOM...I learned so much. Most important however, was how, in spite of leading the busiest, most pressure filled CoCOM OPS Directorate, he always put you, Brett and Kelly first. It was an honor to know him. You are in our prayers.
Bill, Sue, Kayla, Billy, Matthew and Paddy McKechnie
Gerry (Col Ret) & Nancy Boesche
September 29, 2010
Dear Jeannie,
I just read about Sandy's death in Checkpoints, USAFA Alumni Magazine, and Nancy and I are deeply saddened by this news. You might remember us from our time together in Hawaii where Sandy was my sponsor coming to J3 Ops CINCPAC. We enjoyed dinner at your house on Hickam and many social and other events together. I worked with Sandy for one year there before you moved on, but I met him many times after that when He was 19th AF Commander and I was stationed at the Academy. He was truly one of the best in every way and taught me a lot. We think about you often and Sandy will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers to you and family.
Timmothy and Robin Dickens
September 11, 2010
Mrs Sandstrom;
I just heard the news today and offer my heart felt condolences to you and your family on the loss of an incredible leader and mentor. Robin and I have you and your family in our hearts and prayers with the hope that through time you will heal with God's blessings.
Kevin Roll
September 10, 2010
Dear Mrs Sandstrom,
I was fortunate to have been stationed with Gen Sandstrom a couple times. I remember him as a charasmatic leader, very personable, always optimistic, and an excellent fighter pilot. My sincere condolences to you and your family. We will celebrate his life!
Pam and Rob Menendez
September 8, 2010
Dear Jeannie,
We have just heard the sad news about Sandy and wish we could be closer to give you a hug. Our memories of time with your family are filled with Sandstrom smiles, generousity and graceful hospitality. Yours and Sandy's deep respect and love for each other was a gift you shared with all those around you. We are deeply sorry for your loss and pray for healing and God's comfort.
September 7, 2010
Our condolences and prayers are with you and your family. Jimmy was a wonderful cousin, friend, father, person. He will be missed by all.
Richard and Cora Sandstrom
Paul Dordal
September 2, 2010
Jeannie,
Paul & I were so saddened to hear about Sandy - From the Academy to Pope AFB all those memories. Your in our thoughts and prayers,
God Speed.
Paul & Laureen Dordal
Fayetteville NC
Norman Edwards
August 31, 2010
Mrs Sandstrom and family, I offer my deepest condolences during your time of sorrow. I'm very saddened by this news. I served as his Executive Officer during his time in the Air Staff at the Pentagon. A brilliant leader displaying an unparalleled, keen intellect. A memorable and impactful mentor who made it an absolute pleasure to serve under his directorship. He will be missed by many....
Craig Sanders
August 31, 2010
Jeannie and family:
We offer our deepest condolences to your family. Jim and I shared some experiences in high school and I still remember seeing him off to the Air Force Academy. We are all proud of Jim’s Air Force career and his love of family and friends. While we never connected while we both were on active duty, I was well aware of his accomplishments throughout his career. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lt. Col. Craig and Gwen Sanders
Gerry Lemke
August 29, 2010
Jeannie & everyone else mourning Jim's passing -
Please accept my condolences. I met Jim and became his roommate during our third years at the Academy. We soon became very close and shared a huge number of great times. He was one of the most prominent figures in my life at the Academy. Like others who have written, my regret is that we didn't keep in close contact after graduation. We only managed brief, occassional letters or e-mails. I'll always consider him a great guy and a wonderful friend.
Mary, Scott, Brant Shipferling
August 28, 2010
For the Sandstrom family, may God's peace be with all.
George Mayer
August 27, 2010
Jeannie, Kelly, Brett,
Jayne and I are saddened to hear about Sandy's passing. He was such a great mentor, role model and friend. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rico
August 27, 2010
Jeannie and Family,
I was shocked to hear about Gen Sandstrom's passing. I "thoroughly" enjoyed working with both of you during your tour at USCENTCOM and have thought about you both since your departure. The world is a much safer place thanks to his NUMEROUS contributions in his service to this nation. You ALL are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Most Sincerely,
Pat Hilley, Tampa, FL
August 26, 2010
Jeannie,
Was so saddened to hear about Sandy. Like so many whose lives he touched over the years, I have so many great memories of Jim. As you may recall, he was my IP while I was checking out as an Instructor in F-104s. Not only an outstanding pilot, he was a true leader and an even better friend.
Some years after I retired and was flying with FedEx, I had a layover in Phoenix. I went out to the base to see Sandy and found him in a staff meeting (he was wing cc at the time). I walked in unannounced and told him it was time to adjourn the meeting and head to the Oclub with and old buddy of his! The squadron commanders had a look of shock on their faces, as Sandy greeted me with a bear hug, then promptly dismissed everyone! Looking back, I should have been arrested. Sandy however, took it in good humor, dropped what he was doing and spent some time with an old friend.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Let me know if there is anything I can ever do.
Yours truly,
Pappy Homan
[email protected]
Bill & Sue Welser
August 25, 2010
Sue and I are saddened to hear of your loss... Sandy was a great role model and friend to so many folks. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Dan "Cadillac" Saville
August 25, 2010
Sandstrom Family,
Susan and I join you in your grief, but thank God for the times that we had to be acquainted with Sandy. Although Sandy was always in a command job over me at Nellis, Luke, and even here at Lockheed Martin, I enjoyed every time I got to interact with him. He will be missed. May God bless you with His devine peace during this time of mourning.
CMSAF Eric Benken
August 25, 2010
Dear Sandstrom Family,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I met MGen Sandstrom and Jeannie while serving as the 12AF Senior Enlisted Advisor to Gen Jim Jamerson. I found him to be a tremendous leader with a very kind soul. Sincere thanks to him and the Sandstrom family for their service and sacrifice to our great nation. God Bless.
Chip & Mary Lou Diehl
August 24, 2010
Dear Jeannie, Kelly and Brett,
We were so shocked and saddened to hear the news of Jim's passing. He was such a wonderful person. All our love and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. May God bless each of you and hold you close.
Art and Helen Rooney
August 24, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We were so sad to hear the news of your loss. We will keep you in our daily prayers.
Steve Chabolla (Col, ret.)
August 24, 2010
Dear Sandstrom Family,
I am very sorry to hear of the passing of MGen Sandstrom. I worked for him in the mid 1990s while assigned to the Pentagon. I have personally known many senior leaders during my 28+ years in the Air Force and I can tell you that General Sandstrom was one of only two that I use as a role model in my daily life. His character, intellect, and integrity, in combination with his caring and gracious personality engendered all who knew him to strive to be their best. His life will always be a part of me. May God bless the Sandstrom family.
John Wolfram
August 23, 2010
To Jeannie, Kelly Jo, Brett Sandstrom and Pat McRoberts,
Please know that our prayers are with you during this time of sudden loss of a wonderful husband, father, and brother.
To Jim (Floyd):
Dear Jim,
We who were privileged to have known you as the bright-eyed, blond-haired boy who grew up in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, only got a tiny glimpse of the greatness that lay inside of you. You may have been small in stature but never in heart and spirit. Like so many of us, you left town with a high school diploma and big aspirations, but you were able to accomplish so much more than most. You showed us that big dreams could become reality. Others would have the privilege of seeing you carve out an impressive career in the Air Force that only a few elites could ever accomplish. But regardless of when we were blessed to have known you, you enriched us all by your wit and zest for life. You will be missed.
John Wolfram, high school friend, Fort Atkinson, WI
August 23, 2010
We served with Jim and Jeannie Sandstrom when they commanded the 23rd Composite Wing at Pope AFB in the mid-90s. Jim and Jeannie were the finest husband and wife command team that we had ever been priviledged to serve with. As his Support Group Commander and next door neighbors, Ruth and I cherish the wonderful memories of Jim, Jeannie, Kelly and Brett. On the occasion of this tragic loss, we thank the Lord for the Sandstrom family, and their great service to our Air Force and our nation. Rod and Ruth Shaw (Woodbridge, VA).
Laura Sampsel
August 23, 2010
Men and women of the 33 MXG, Eglin AFB, wish to express their deepest condolescenses. Though we worked with him such a short period time, we have great respect and admiration for his commitment to this nation and its security.
Mike Lanning
August 23, 2010
Jim was one of the very few, as a young lieutenant, that you could tell was going to make general. One of the very best.
Steve Hall
August 22, 2010
I was fortunate to meet Jim shortly after entering USAFA in 1967. We spent most of the first two years as room-mates. We played together, worked together and learned together. I like to think that we changed from boys to men together.
One of the thinks I liked most about Jim was that he always knew when it was time to play and when it was time to go to work- he did both equally well. Jim's family was very important to him. He told me countless stories about his mom, Dad and sister. I'm sure he was a wonderful husband and father. Please accept our deepest condolences from my wife Patty and me.
Steve Hall
USAFA Class of 1971
Rod Jones
August 21, 2010
Met Jim 43 years ago at the Academy, and he changed very little. Sarcastic quips, a sly smile, and a true friend. I know the best thing that ever happened to him was Jeannie and the kids, because Jim told me so.
Jim was a great fighter pilot, leader, and friend. He was probably an even better husband and dad. He always kept his great sense of humor and respect for those below him, no matter how high he got up the food chain.
Jeannie, Jim will be missed but he left us so many memories and a legacy. Cherish the memories and know that you have many friends here to help. God Bless your family.
Gary Jackson
August 21, 2010
James Sandstrom Family. Jim and I not only shared the same high school class, but the same birthday. We were high school friends, but as life progressed, we went separtate ways. I was deeply moved by Jim's passing and have taken pause in my own life to reflect on this occasion. I can only say that along with my compassion for you and your family at this difficult time, it has made me realize the value of life and the time we have left. With Jim's passing, I have made a conscious effort to redirect my life to my family and friends. What a tribute it is to a man whose impact in life, extends to a more far reaching impact in death. May God Bless you, your family and all who knew and loved Jim.
Gary Jackson
Katy Scarbrough
August 20, 2010
Jeannie, Brett, and Kelly; I have nothing but fond memories of your family. My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy are with you as you endure this difficult chapter. God Bless.
Scar Scarbrough
August 20, 2010
Scar the girls and I are so sad for the loss of this wonderful guy...the world is a much sadder place with him gone. You know we love you and Brett and Kelly and are wrapping you in soft hugs.
The Scarbroughs
Nancy Carothers
August 20, 2010
Jeannie, Kelly and Brett,
I was saddened and shocked by the news of Jim's sudden passing. I will always recall the wonderful person he was. Jeannie, the minute I met you, there was no doubt the two of you were meant to be. Kristin and Kara were so grateful for the time spent this past holiday season. You,Jim and family will remain in my prayers. Till we all meet again. God bless you.
cindy and mike coman
August 20, 2010
Dearest Jeannie, Brett and Kelly,
We were heart broken when we learned of Jim's sudden death. He was a wonderful friend and neighbor to us and we will miss him greatly. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time. Love, Cindy and Mike
Rich&Carolyn Duckworth
August 20, 2010
Jeannie, Kelly and Brett,
We are so saddened by the news of Sandy's passing. Sandy was a great husband, father, officer, leader, mentor and friend and demonstrated it routinely during the time I worked for him. I was hoping our paths would cross again, but that crossing will now have to wait. We pray for comfort and peace for you all in this time of sorrow.
Steve & Vikkii McNamara
August 20, 2010
Jeannie,
Our deepest sympathy at your sudden loss. Sandy was a great, caring boss and mentor. He was a role model for how a military leader should inspire, trust, and command his troops. We will miss him terribly, but remember well his kindness, humor, and quirky smile. We will write soon.
You, Jim and family are in our thoughts and prayers.
August 20, 2010
Dearest Jeannie, Brett and Kelly I have been traveling up north when I got your shocking news. My deepest prayers go out to you now in this time of sadness and devastating loss.Prayers will be ongonig and call when you are ready for whatever we can do. Bless you all in this time of loss. Art and Soni Hedlund
Sandy Bixler
August 20, 2010
Jeannie,
Prayers to you at this sad time. I believe I only had the opportunity of meeting Jim once at an AFIL gathering, but have truly enjoyed getting to know you and your beautiful daughter. Kelly was the first resident I met when first looking at AFIL for my son. What a ray of sunshine. Last night Ben told me about Jim and said, "Kelly was home crying in her mother's arms" What an amazing picture. May you and your family feel the strength of arms around you now. Sandy Bixler, mom of Ben Bixler, AFIL Training House
Jim Craig
August 20, 2010
To the family of Jim. When you are a doolie at the Air Force Academy, your world is very small. Jim, Rod Jones, Steve Hall and I shared this very small world for a year. We were always in trouble, but had a great year in spite of the harassment afforded doolies at USAFA. We shared many laughs and stories. We also got to know each other very well in a short period of time.
Most of our stories and escapades would not do well in print. I also can't divulge Jim's nickname (I think Jim nicknamed himself).
I have wondered many times over the years what Jim was up to. Unfortunately, as is the custom at USAFA, we graduated into a fast paced career and I didn't have a chance to see Jim in recent years.
I will miss him. I know you will miss him and his country will not be as well of as it was with him here. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Pie, Class of 1971
Tessie Huff
August 19, 2010
Jeannie,
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
August 19, 2010
Dear Jeannie, Brett and Kelly,
Our hearts and prayers go out to you. It is amazing how two fraternity 'brothers' can bring so many families together. Feel our arms around you and know that we share in your sorrow. With much love, Beverly, Mike and Edward Bogel
August 19, 2010
I was stunned and greatly saddened to hear of Sandy's passing. I had the privilege to work with Sandy on the F-16 Greece program and was very impressed with his professionalism and by the warmth he displayed to everyone. On one business trip to Colorado Springs Sandy went to a lot of effort to arrange an insider tour of the Air Force Academy. He had so many stories to tell of his time there and his subsequent experiences in the Air Force. He was truly a great man and a great patriot. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Arvel Toten (Hudson Oaks, Tx)
August 19, 2010
To the Sandstrom family¦.We are very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. We knew him in Sumter, SC many years ago. He was a very special person and will be missed by all. Our prayers are with you.
Al & Sandra Hotz (Albuquerque, NM)
Julie Durocher
August 19, 2010
I was very sad to learn of Sandy's illness and passing. I had the privelege of working with him on F-16 program. He was always professional and good to work with. He will be missed.
Derek Flores
August 19, 2010
To the Sandstrom family - I'm so sorry for your loss. I had the honor to work with Mr. Sandstrom over the last few years. He was quite the professional and certainly well respected within Lockheed Martin. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of grief.
Lee Hart
August 19, 2010
Jeannie and Family, My sympathy and prayers are with you and Sandy. It was a joy knowing and serving with you both for the short time that it was. God be with you.
Lee Hart
Chuck&Katie Simpson
August 19, 2010
Jeannie & family,
We were stunned to read of Sandy's passing. He was a superb officer and gentleman and the world is better because of him. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Best Regards,
Bob Manning, '71
August 19, 2010
Jeannie and family:
My condolences for your loss, certainly too early in life. Although I didn't know Sandy well, we shared 4 years at the AF Academy which bonded us by the experience. My wife, Jan, and I will lift you and your family in our prayers. Please know that our Lord will carry you through these trying days and give you His peace.
Paula McInerney
August 19, 2010
Jean, Kelly and Brett,
We are so sorry for your loss. We are so glad to have spent some time with Jim last summer. He was a wonderful person and I know he loved all of you dearly. I pray for your comfort and God's blessings for your family. Love, Jeff, Paula, and Kayla
Brandee, Dee, Kristen, Sunshine, & Dr. Gary White
August 19, 2010
Jeannie, Kelly and Brett,
We are very sorry for your loss. It was an honor to have Jim as our patient for many years. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Earl Belz
August 19, 2010
To the family of Sandy. I recently met Sandy while working with the HAF in Greece. I was there helping with receiving inspections on new F-16's for Lockheed Martin. He was staying at the same hotel with us and we started commuting to work and back every day. He was the back seater in the car, usually navigating for us using his blackberry GPS. Sandy even went with us to Delphi to visit the ruins. Needless to say I was absolutely fascinated with Sandy and amazed with what he had accomplished during his life. I enjoyed his company so much. I'm sure he was tired of my endless questions about his career and experiences. You have been blessed to have him for a husband, father, grandfather..My condolences to you. What a great and humble man.
Earl Belz
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