Sandra Ann Zagar

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sandra Ann (Nitz) Zagar, who passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, at the age of 77. Sandy was born in Medicine Hat Alberta. Although she made Calgary her home for more than five decades, her heart remined closely connected to the community where she was born and raised.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Cathy (Craig) of Three Hills, Alberta and Brian (Chona) of Chestermere, Alberta; her cherished grandchildren, Bryanna (Max), Alexandria, Domonic and Tajana (Ali); her treasured great-grandchildren, Atticus and Mila; son-in-law Dale (Jessie); sister-in-law Aldina (the late Boris), Nada (the late Janko); brothers-in-law Danilo and Boris (Marta); numerous nieces and nephews in Calgary and Slovenia. Sandy’s circle of love also extended well beyond her immediate family—her cousins, extended family, and many friends.

Sandy was predeceased by her beloved husband of 55 years, Mario Zagar in 2022, as well as by her parents, Victoria Kiel (nee Oberhammer) and John Nitz.

Sandy spent much of her career at Sears Canada, where she worked faithfully until the company closed its doors in 2018. Her reliability and strong work ethic awarded her many public accolades and awards and left a lasting impression. Beyond her work, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures — puzzle games on her tablet, latch hooking, paint by numbers, bingo and especially watching old, black and white television movies. Even as her health limited her in later years, she continued to find ways to stay busy with her crafts and connected to those she loved.

Known affectionately as Mom, Mama, or Nana Sandy, she will be remembered for her heart. She gave selflessly, always putting the needs of others before her own. She was the kind of person who gave everything she had to ensure the people she loved had enough. She found joy in giving; in sacrificing quietly so others could smile and want for nothing—her reward was the happiness of those around her. Her kindness and generosity were not reserved just for family. She was always ready with a kind word, a helping hand or a smile for anyone who needed it.

Sandy never missed a birthday, anniversary or milestone--the unofficial family record keeper. Her thoughtful calls and messages, often composed late in the night and arriving before dawn, were constant reminders that she was always thinking of others. Her care was evident in the smallest gestures. Even her frequent weather reports served as expressions of her concern and love, as though she could still protect and care for her family from afar.

Sandy had a gift of connecting everyone together, even when she had very little energy left for herself. She was the heart of her home. You could always count on her. You could always come home to her. She was the soul of her family, and a light in so many lives. Her love was unconditional.

In accordance with Sandy’s wishes no memorial service will be held. Interment will be held at Hillside Cemetery, Medicine Hat, Alberta at a later date.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Savioa and Barb for their dedicated care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations in Sandy’s memory may be made to the Kidney Foundation.

Sandy will be remembered with love, missed beyond words, and carried forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.