Sandra Starrett Turmail

Sandra Starrett Turmail

Dec 31, 2024

Sandra Starrett Turmail of Dyer IN., formerly of Munster IN., passed away December 31st , peacefully at her home. She is survived by her loving husband, Dr. Douglas Turmail, Son, and Daughter-in-Law Greg and Laurie Starrett of Munster, IN. Daughter Diana Starrett of San Antonio, TX. Granddaughter

Stacy (Dan James) Vanderwoude of St. John, IN. Brother Robert Allen, of Crown Point, IN. Sister-In-Law Cheryl (Robert) Allen of Kankakee, IL., Brother and Sister-In-Law James and Susan Turmail, of St. Louis, MO., and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elijah and Helen Allen, Brother Ronald Allen, Sisters Patricia Ols and Karen Allen, and Sister-In-law Christine Allen.

Sandy, as she was known to all, grew up in Hammond, IN. and later, Lansing, IL. She was a devoted Mother and housewife, and was involved at her children's schools, serving where there was a need. She helped organize and stage the first Fun Fairs at Elliot School in the early 70's. Later, she worked with The Northern Indiana Art Association, helping to start their poetry and open mic nights, and eventually becoming its program director. In that position, in 1977 she worked with Artist Herman Gurfinkel, Inland Steel, The City of Hammond and several local businesses to help bring the classic statue "Man of Steel" to Harrison Park. After that she started Starrett Entertainment Agency, booking local musical acts around the Region. She helped so many local musicians, and was well known and respected. Later Sandy then started working with her husband Dr. Douglas Turmail at Woodmar Animal Clinic as the Hospital Administrator. Working there was a perfect fit for it allowed her to be around animals, one of her greatest loves. In 2014 they sold the clinic and the two spent much of their time traveling in their RV. Doing this gave Sandy the opportunity to continue combining her love of animals with photography. She left behind an impressive collection of wildlife pictures. Everyone whose lives she touched will remember her as someone who was caring, loving, and who always wanted to help.

A Memorial Service will be On Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at Schroeder Lauer Funeral Home, 3227 Ridge Road, Lansing, IL. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Love a Golden Rescue, www.loveagolden.com would be appreciated. www.schroederlauer.com