W. Terry Sandstrom

Terry Sandstrom, 80, of Sullivan, Missouri passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.

W. Terry Sandstrom was born on August 15, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Walter and Edna (Kraemer) Sandstrom. Terry grew up in Lombard, Illinois, where he graduated from high school in 1962. He then furthered his education at Bemidji College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where he not only pursued his general studies but also met his soulmate, Darlene Bendickson. They were soon united in marriage on July 20, 1963, and soon after they started their family in Saint Paul, MN.

After college, Terry began his professional journey at a bacon factory as an accounting technician. His career path led him to California, where he joined the United States Postal Service. Starting as a carrier, Terry's dedication and hard work saw him rise through the ranks to clerk, supervisor, and eventually postmaster. He served with distinction in the communities of Los Angeles, California, Unionville, Missouri, Chesterfield, Missouri, and Sullivan, Missouri, before retiring in 1999.

Terry's commitment to community and family extended beyond his professional life. He and Darlene opened their hearts and home to over 50 foster children, providing a safe haven and unconditional love. They also hosted more than 25 foreign exchange students, creating a global family that spanned continents. Bobak Akabari, from Iran, made a lasting impression on the family, staying in touch with them to this day.

In retirement, Terry and Darlene embarked on travels across all 50 states and every continent, with a particular fondness for exploring national parks. An avid outdoorsman, Terry could often be found hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying time on his back deck. He had a love for birdwatching, gardening, and refurbishing old items.

Whatever Darlene dreamed, he endeavored to build or create. He made many custom floral displays and planters for Darlene, always ensuring her visions came to life. Terry collected many coins, especially an extensive foreign coin collection, raised award-winning tropical fish, and even achieved a perfect 300 score in bowling at the age of 68.

Never one to sit idle, Terry's thirst for knowledge and love for games kept his mind sharp. He enjoyed playing Pinochle at the Cuba Senior Center, and other card games with his family and friends. He also delighted in solving crossword puzzles and Sudoku. Terry's wisdom often came wrapped in old-fashioned cliché sayings, leaving a smile on the faces of those who knew him. One that most people heard him say was "Top of the morning".

He is survived by his three loving children: Tedd Sandstrom and wife Leondra of Durham, Missouri, Tadd Sandstrom and wife Rita of Saint Joseph, Missouri and Terienne Dortman and husband Robert of Visalia, California; nine grandchildren: Teondra Aycox and husband Tyler, Sabryn Sandstrom, Christian Sandstrom, Shayla Silvers and husband Craig, Brienne Dortman, Anna Dortman, Dylan Sandstrom, Stephanie Sage and husband Jared, and Lisa Andres and husband Tristan; seven great – grandchildren: Hazel, Khyler, Caity, Weston, Josey, Alaina, and Elizabeth; and a sister, Sharon Mann and significant other Jim of Saint George, UT; other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene; and his parents, Walter and Edna Sandstrom.

A Remembrance Memorial Service will be held at 11 AM, Monday, July 21, 2025 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, Missouri.

Visitation will be held 10 – 11 AM, Monday, July 21, 2025 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.

Friends may send their online condolences to Terry's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BJC Hospice in Sullivan.

All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.