Sandra Ellen VanBuren

Sandra Ellen VanBuren, age 59, of Belding, Michigan, passed away Saturday, November 29, 2025 under the loving care of her family and Corewell Health Hospice at her home.

She was the daughter of Richard & Grace (Dyke) Norman. Born on December 1, 1965, a 1984 graduate of East Kentwood High School and then found roots in Belding, Michigan in 1993, raised a family of three. She stayed there until her passing, tending her gardens and plants. During the spring and summer, she worked at Two Season Greenhouse, indulging in her passion. In the winter, she would work at Cannonsburg Ski Lodge.

She spent her life as a Pure Michigander; she fished, skied and boated in Newago County at Hardy Dam, where the family spent their summers. Sandra always had a book in hand. Her knowledge and passion for plants enriched not only her garden, but the lives of those she loved. She also expressed her love through cooking homemade meals that were always enjoyed.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas G. VanBuren in 1997; their daughter, Casey Morgan VanBuren in 2007; and a brother, Mark Norman in 2023.

Surviving are her life partner, Ray Groom of Belding; her two sons, Corey & Lana VanBuren of Grand Rapids, and Cody VanBuren of Belding; her favorite (and only) grandson, Connor VanBuren; a brother, Rick & Debbie Norman of Lowell; a sister, Laurie & Orville Russel of Wayland; Ray’s sister, Karen Groom of Belding; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.

Visitation with the family is from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at the lodge at Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Road N.E., Belmont, Michigan 49306, with a sharing of memories beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Sandy’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: https://www.michigancremation.com/obituaries/sandra-vanburen

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638.