Elizabeth Ann Sandman

In Loving Memory of Elizabeth Ann Sandman
March 5, 1979 – September 6, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Ann (Peskowits) Sandman, a beloved mother of four children, loving wife to Joshua Sandman, and cherished daughter of Hans and Clare Peskowits. Elizabeth peacefully departed this world in her sleep, aged 44, leaving a void in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born on March 5, Elizabeth was a radiant presence from the very beginning. She grew up in Sleepy Hollow, Illinois, where she cultivated a deep love for art, nature, and community. Her big heart and infectious laughter made her an instant friend to everyone she encountered.
Thirteen years ago, Elizabeth joined her life with her beloved husband, Joshua, in a union of love and commitment that was a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew them. Their love story was one of unwavering support, shared dreams, and countless cherished moments.
Elizabeth's journey into motherhood began when she welcomed her first child, Lillian Marie (13), into the world in June 2010. This was the beginning of her lifelong devotion to her children, a role that she embraced with boundless love and unwavering dedication. Her family quickly expanded to include Liam Karl (11), Lucille Ann (8), and Linus John (6), and she embraced the challenges and joys of motherhood with grace and enthusiasm.
Elizabeth was not only a devoted mother and wife but also a beloved sister to Therese Marie Peskowits. Their sisterly bond was a source of joy throughout their lives, a friendship that added an extra layer of closeness to their family.
Elizabeth pursued her education at Eastern Illinois University, where she cultivated her innate compassion, with a special focus on individuals with disabilities. From her early years, she harbored a profound love for dancing, a passion that endured throughout her lifetime. In addition to her dancing prowess, she thrived in pool table competitions, adored animals, and derived immense joy from tending to her vibrant and varied sunflower garden.
Elizabeth was a true artist in every sense of the word. Her home was filled with her artwork and she had an uncanny ability to infuse beauty into every corner of her life. Whether baking elaborate cakes for her children's birthdays or crafting extraordinary costumes, she consistently demonstrated her remarkable creativity.
Elizabeth is survived by her parents; her husband and four children, her sister, as well as her extended family of Jo Anne Sandman, Jeannette (Sandman) and Jason Hilde, nephew Gavin Hilde, many aunts and uncles, cousins, and countless friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
As we mourn the loss of Elizabeth, let us remember her for the love, warmth, and beauty she brought into our lives. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, who will carry forward her spirit of creativity, compassion, and love for the world.
A memorial service to celebrate Elizabeth's life will be held on September 19th at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory on 1860 S Mulford Rd in Rockford, Illinois from 5 pm – 8 pm. Her funeral will follow on September 20th at 11am. In lieu of sending sunflowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Easterseals, leaders of autism awareness, a cause that was dear to Elizabeth's heart.
"If we humans have fulfilled our purpose, like the sunflowers, we bless others even after we are gone too." – Martin Burber