Terri Herman Sandblom

Terri Herman Sandblom passed away on August 4, 2023; at home in Chicago, Illinois, after living with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer for many years. Born on December 19, 1966, in Valley Stream, New York, Terri lived in many cities over the years but remained a New Yorker at heart. Her radiant spirit and unwavering determination left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.
Terri pursued knowledge throughout her life. She graduated from Hewlett High School on Long Island and earned her Bachelor of Arts from Emory University in Atlanta, GA. After Emory, she obtained her Juris Doctor from the Boston University School of Law. She went on to have a distinguished career as a marketing executive, where she made significant contributions to various companies' marketing strategies including being recognized with the prestigious Cleo Award for her creative excellence.
Terri loved to travel and returned many times to enjoy the white sandy beaches of Miami and the charming cobblestone streets of Nantucket. She was a dedicated member of the ACKPack, a group of close-knit friends whom she cherished, and she was a true soul sister and kindred spirit to her lifelong friend, Phyllis. Terri's many friendships were as deep and enduring as her love for exploration and adventure. She was an avid reader and music lover who could often be found grooving to the diverse playlists she created. Terri had a special way with dogs and shared her life with many including Disco and Elton and their predecessors Suki, Katie, Cha Cha and the Fonz. Even in the face of adversity, Terri remained resilient, never allowing her circumstances to diminish her. She would have seen herself in the words of Maya Angelou, "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it".
Terri's zest for life was matched only by her love for her family. She was preceded in death by her father, Erle C. Herman and her mother, Elaine Herman. She is survived by her devoted husband, confidant, and best friend Steven Sandblom; her supportive brother, Thomas Herman; her caring sister-in-law, Kathy Herman; and her beloved nephew and niece, Cullen, and Caroline Herman. Their lives were made richer by her presence, and they will continue to honor her legacy by celebrating life every day.
Terri's family and friends will gather in the future to celebrate her life with the kind of party she would have loved. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gilda's Club Chicago, an organization near to Terri's heart, at Gilda's Clubhouse, 537 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL, 60654 (please include Terri's name) or online at https://www.gildasclubchicago.org/ways-to give/donate/ by clicking "Donate Online Now." Under Optional Note, individuals can click "Dedicate this gift to someone" and then include Terri's name.
Terri often liked to have the last word so in those of David Byrne, one of her favorite artists, "If someone asks, this is where I'll be".
Rest in Peace and Love dearest Terri.