Obituary published on Legacy.com by Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel on Nov. 25, 2025.
Alan Leroy Sandquist, a devoted family man and faithful follower of Jesus, passed away on November 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was 81 years old.
Alan's life was celebrated on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel,
Watertown, South Dakota.
Alan was born to Harvey and Valyria Sandquist on November 18, 1944 in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He graduated from Leola High School and then attended the University of South Dakota where he became an auto body specialist. He owned and operated Gene & Al's Body Shop in Aberdeen from 1971-1986 and BAE Systems (formerly FMC) in Aberdeen from 1986-2011. He grew into a man defined by integrity, humility and a deep love for his family.
He married his beloved wife Jean Vetch on December 11, 1976; and together they built a life filled with laughter, commitment and unwavering support. As a father and grandfather, he led with kindness, patience and quiet strength that made everyone around him feel cared for and protected.
Alan's faith was the foundation of his life and he lived each day with a grateful heart. He trusted God's guidance and shared Christ's love through his action more than words. His family and friends knew him as the man who would show up whenever needed; often with a grin and helping hands
He had a gift for making people feel seen and appreciated often by giving them a nickname that would stick for years. So whether it was family, friends or someone he just met, he had a way of offering a name that brought laughter, a connection and a sense of belonging.
As an avid outdoorsman, Alan found peace and joy in nature. Hunting wasn't just a hobby for him, it was a way to connect with the land, gather with friends and reflect his blessings from God and His Creation.
Alan is survived by his wife Jeanie Sandquist; his son David "Noogie" (Christy Cherry-okie) Sandquist; his siblings, Mary Lu, Cheryl, Robbie, Miles and Kurt; his siblings-in-law, Molly (David) Wurtz, Lexie, Marla (Dave) Langley; his eight grandchildren, Katie, Krystal, Mckenzie, Nikki, Melissa, Carter, Miranda and Carmen; four great-grandchildren, Jade, Mattie, Ethan and Kaeden; Alan's special friends, Kenny "Yogi" Ham, Joe "Joey" Long, Steve "Stevie" Winther; and his special little buddy, Maggie Mae.
He is preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Valyria; his son Randy; his daughter Kirsten; his brother Dean; two brothers-in-law Ronnie and Lonnie Vetch; and his parents-in-law Lawrence and Milda Vetch.
We would like to send our gratitude to all of the amazing hospice nurses and the support staff at Prairie Lakes Hospital, along with Dr. Devine, for their compassion, support and loving care through this difficult time.
Wight & Comes Funeral www.wightandcomes.com