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Sandra Dower Obituary
Sandra "Sandy" Jean (Shanks) Dower, 71, beloved wife of Lawrence "Larry" Dower, of South Windsor, passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Yale New Haven Hospital on August 2, 2017. Sandy was born in Boston, Massachusetts on May 14, 1946 to the late John and Mildred (Eis) Shanks. She grew up in the Boston area and married her high school sweetheart, Larry. They moved to Vernon where they spent over 30 years lovingly raising their family, before moving to South Windsor, enjoying another 15 years together, always surrounded by wonderful friends. Sandy spent much of her life caring for children, not only hers, but also others, and loved them all dearly. She later received her Associate's Degree from Manchester Community College, and began working as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Sandy was an active parishioner of St. Bernard's parish in Rockville. She joyfully served in many capacities within the church family she loved so deeply. Her family and friends were her greatest treasures and her door was always open with a warm hug, a kind and caring heart, a listening ear, and a cup of tea. She is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, Larry Dower; her son, John Dower and his wife, Lisa of New Canaan; her daughters, Deborah McCleary and her husband, Gregory of TN, Cynthia (Dower) Kiernan of South Windsor; her brother, Edward Shanks and his wife, Sharon of FL; sisters Roberta Shanks, and Dorothy Fitzpatrick, both of MA; her beloved grandchildren Grace, Evan, Morgan, and Bobby; and countless dear friends. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Tuesday, August 8, 2017 at 11 AM at St. Bernard's Church, 25 St. Bernard Terrace Rockville, CT 06066. Burial will follow at St. Bernard's Cemetery. Sandy's family will receive friends on Monday, August 7, 2017 at Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home, 551 Talcottville Road, (Route 83) Vernon, CT from 11 AM -1 PM and again from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. At Sandy's request please consider wearing bright colors while attending the celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sandy's name may be made to St. Bernard Church, 25 St. Bernard Terrace, Vernon, CT 06066 or The Smilow Cancer Center, Yale New Haven Hospital, P.O. Box 1849 New Haven, CT 06508-9979. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.CarmonFuneralHome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Sandra Dower
Sponsored by the family.
August 21, 2017
Larry, I am so, so sorry about Sandy's passing.
I know we haven't seen each other in a very long time, but, she was a wonderful, fun and generous person. Take care of yourself and your family.
Theresa Bosio
Sharon Shenberg
August 14, 2017
My deepest condolences to Sandy''s family. I have known Sandy through weight watchers. She always had the greatest outlook on life. I will never forget when she would stan up at a WW meeting and pronounce what her strategy or goal was for that week. I will miss Sandy tremendously but will think of her every time I step foot into a WW meeting.
Genni Kauke
August 14, 2017
I had the pleasure of working with Sandy as a fellow COTA for several years, she was truly one of the sweetest, most caring, and empathetic people I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with. She always had great recipes to share and always talked about her children and grandchildren. I was so sad to hear of her passing, my deepest sympathies to her family.
William "Sandy" and Frances Rodgers
August 8, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to all the Dower family. We first met Sandy via the many committee meetings held at their home for the local Boy Scout Troop - she did so much to assist in the community and with youth - like having that cup of tea available for such meetings. The family will certainly always have those great mmemories, which is what one never loses. May those memories keep her with you forever.
Eileen Fish
August 8, 2017
Dear Larry,John,Debbie and Cindy;
Just wanted to tell you all what a pleasure it had been being Sandy's hairdresser for probably 30ty years. I always looked forward to our visits to talk about our children, hubby's and especially our grandchildren. We couldn't solve the problems of the world and would never understood why there wasn't more kindness.I feel like I've been through so much with your family. She loved you all so very much.. .but you know that!It truly was my pleasure to make her feel beautiful on the outside. The good bye I said to her almost a year ago was so hard and this is even more. I'm glad that peace has found her. She will be missed here in earth.love and prayers to all. Always Eileen Fish
Ryan Bachiochi
August 8, 2017
I remember Sandy as the no nonsense youth group mom with a heart of gold. She was always very sharp and witty and there for you when you needed anything. I'll always remember her great sense of humor, love of life and her great laugh. My deepest condolences to Larry, Deb and Cindy.
Ben & Bobbi Rodgers
August 7, 2017
John, Larry and all the Dower family - We were all very saddened to hear of Sandy's passing. She was a wonderful woman and I'm know she will be missed like only a mom and wife can. We last saw her at Al's pool party a few years ago, it was great to see each other again. She and Bobbi really enjoyed each others company and remained friends that routinely "chatted" on Facebook (Bobbi really enjoyed her recent comments about us becoming grandparents and the related pictures). Words cannot express our sympathy, but know that she was loved by many and will be missed by all that knew her. In the same way, you have the support of all of your and her friends as well as each other during this difficult time. We will be keeping you in our hearts and prayers.
Joan Charron
August 7, 2017
Sandy was a wonderful person. Enjoyed seeing her at Weight Watchers. Her smile and energy brought joy to all of us who knew her.
Patty Watts
August 7, 2017
To the Dower family, My sincere condolences on hearing the sad news of Mrs. Dower's passing. I will remember her fondly for her sweet and gentle kindness, her beautiful smile, cavernous dimples and her "finally great chocolate cake" recipe (which is my go-to recipe, which she kindly shared at my bridal shower so many years ago.) We mourn with you as we've both experienced loss this week! You'll be in my thoughts and prayers! Fondly, Patty (McCauley) Watts
Jim and Nancy Dunker
August 7, 2017
, Larry and family we are so sorry to hear about Sandy's passing. Please know that we are praying for all of you in your time of grief. She is now with the Lord and you will be reunited with her in time. Your faith will get you through this time of grief. God is good and in control and has a plan. With all our love and sympathy Jim and Nancy Dunker
Carolyn McCauley Hussey
August 7, 2017
My sincere condolences.... I will always remember Mrs. Dower's beautiful smile and dimples along with her kind words--quick to always ask how others were doing. What a wonderful woman!
Lucie Mulligan
August 7, 2017
Met Sandy at WW and knew from the start that she was so very special. I could see that she was a kind soul without one mean bone in her body. Occasionally, we would meet for coffee or lunch and cheat the WW program. Felt like naughty children. Her hugs were tremendous. I was shocked to hear of her passing. She was an angel and God called her home.
Vin McCauley Jr
August 7, 2017
We mourn with you. Heaven has gained two beautiful souls.
August 7, 2017
Sorry for your loss may you draw comfort from Hosea 13:14. L Ohio
Betsy Finsterwalder
August 6, 2017
Larry and family,
Sandy was a great lady. Even though we only saw each other at the Annual Vermont party and possibly a couple of graduation parties, I considered her a friend because she made me feel that I was. Losing Sandy is a loss to us all.
Betsy (Carol Borst's sister)
Peter Jasinski
August 6, 2017
I had the pleasure of meeting Sandy earlier this year at Weight Watchers. I was impressed with her attitude and outlook and could tell she was a special person. We briefly discussed our disease; I too am involved in the battle against cancer. I love her request of people to wear brightly colored clothes to the celebration of her life. Although I will be unable to attend, I will wear the appropriate clothing in her honor.
Elaine Violette
August 6, 2017
I am so sorry to hear. I will always remember Sandy as a kind and caring woman with a beautiful heart. My thoughts and prayers to her family.
Linda Butera and Family
August 5, 2017
Our condolences to you and your family on the passing of your sister It is never easy to lose a sibling, no matter your age. I pray for your peace and comfort as you continue your life journey without your sister's earthly presence. Our prayers for you, Sandra and your family.
Joe King
August 5, 2017
Sandy was a very special person to me. She was very kind and compassionate. What a wonderful person and a great lost to all of us. God bless you Sandy and may our Lord bless and keep you. I will pray for you always..
Sandra Martinik
August 5, 2017
My prayers are with you, family & friends.
Heather Mulrooney
August 5, 2017
Cindy and family,Sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. Thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time
Jackie Lyons
August 5, 2017
I did not know Sandy. But have so often read Ed's loving boasts about his wonderful sisters. So to Ed and all of Sandy's family may I say that Sandy may have departed from this earth but she never truly leaves, as she is still alive in your hearts and minds - through you, she lives on and will never, ever be forgotten. May Sandy be greeted by and rest in paradise with all those who have left this world before her. My sincere condolences...
Stephen Fitzpatrick
August 5, 2017
So sorry for the lose a beautiful person.
Debby wohlgemuth
August 5, 2017
Eddy and family I just heard about your sister and just wanted to send my condolences.. My prayers are sent along with you and your extended family Eddy. Reading about her it seemed to me she was an incredible person and it's a great loss. Always remember you are always in our hearts and prayers. My family has sent along their prayers also. Debby,Condy,Linda
Brian Slywka
August 5, 2017
I am posting for my wife Marge(Wittenberg) who is Sandy's cousin and presently in upstate New York(along with her brother Fred Wittenberg). Marge was shocked and very sad at the passing of Sandy ... Marge's mother Anna was the sister to Sandy's father John. I did meet Sandy once many years ago and remember how elegant and classy she was. She is in our prayers and our deepest sympathy to her family and siblings Roberta, Dottie and Ed.
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August 5, 2017
I am heartbroken and I can't believe you are gone Mama D! I'm going to miss you sooo much! You gave awesome hugs and I look forward to the day that I can run up to you and get another one! Church won't be the same with out you!
Kelly (Anderson) Fongemie
August 5, 2017
Deb and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Cindy Hays
August 5, 2017
Larry and family we are so saddened to hear of Sandy's passing. She was the kindness person I know and the best neighbor. I will miss chatting away whenever we ran into each other. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Cindy and Phil Hays
Pat Urso
August 5, 2017
So sorry to hear of Sandy passing.Shew was a wonderful wife,Mother and friend. I had the pleasure of working with her for a few years ,so dedicated to her patientsShe will be missed.
Fionna DeFeo
August 5, 2017
I had the pleasure of working with Sandy for many years. She was truly a sweet and loving light in this world. She will truly be missed. My condolences to her family.
Kathy Muska
August 4, 2017
Sandy had the most beautiful soul of anyone I have ever met. She always made you feel as though you were more important than anyone else while you were chatting. Well, except for her grandchildren! The love for everyone around her was with the light of God within her. I will miss her dearly. As will many!
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