Connie Sandra Vandehey

Connie Sandra Vandehey, age 85, of Cornelius, Oregon, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. A devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and faithful servant of God.

Born on August 13, 1940, Connie was the eldest daughter of Martin and Evelyn "Curly" Herb. She grew up in Forest Grove and never moved more than 30 minutes from where she was born. She grew up learning hard work and embraced the values of faith, kindness, and service-principles that guided her throughout her life.

Connie met the love of her life, Gary Vandehey, at a wedding dance, and together they built a beautiful life centered on farming, faith and family. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in April of this year-a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Connie was a strong and joyful woman who found great meaning in the simple pleasures of life, especially in her kitchen. She baked delicious bread for nearly 80 years. The family enjoyed her blueberry pies, lemon sheet cake, chocolate cookie cake, Best Ever cookies and banana bars. Her grandchildren fondly remember that there were always cookies in Grandma's drawer-and if not, there were always backups in the freezer.

For over 40 years, Connie shared her voice in praise as a dedicated member of the choir at St. Francis Catholic Church in Roy.

Connie worked as a team with Gary on their farm and raised their seven children. Above all, Connie's greatest joy was her family. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed camping, playing Crazy Solo to win the "pennies" and pinochle.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Evelyn Herb. She is survived by her beloved husband, Gary Vandehey, and their seven children: Kathy (Ed) Stone, Donna (Steve) Lepschat, Linda (Rick) Hobart, Ron (Barb) Vandehey, Scott (Norman) Vandehey, Kevin (Kim) Vandehey, and Bill (Meredith) Vandehey. She also leaves behind her loving 22 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, her sisters Floralee Stadelman and Nancy (Leo) Snyder, Brother and sister in-laws: Monte (Joan) Vandehey, Reed (Carila) Vandehey, Phil (Tina) Vandehey, Tim (Clara) Vandehey and numerous nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be held on Saturday, September 6th, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St. Francis Catholic Church in Roy, followed by a funeral Mass and reception. All are welcome to join the family in celebrating Connie's remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Connie's memory to the St. Francis Catholic Church (Roy) Parish Community Center.

Though her hands are now at rest, Connie's love, her songs, and her steadfast faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

May she rest in the arms of our Lord.