Sandra "Sandy" Dickau

Sandra "Sandy" Dickau

Lebanon, NH - Lebanon, NH – Sandra Grace "Sandy" Dickau, 75, died on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. Sandy was born in 1950, the daughter of Raymond and Ester Dickau. She attended Parkersburg High School, Parkersburg, Iowa.

From an early age, Sandy knew she wanted to be a nurse. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of North Dakota, graduating in 1972.

Her first position after nursing school was at Prince George's County Hospital in Cheverly, MD. She later moved to New Hampshire to work at Franklin Regional Hospital in Franklin in the early 1970s. In the early 1980s, Sandy returned to Maryland to pursue a Master of Science degree in Nursing at the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus.

After completing her graduate studies in 1983, Sandy returned to New Hampshire and became Director of Adult Critical Care at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC). She later served as interim Senior Nurse Executive before transitioning to the role of Vice President of Patient and Family Resources (PFR). At that time, this new division included Discharge Planning, Social Work, Chaplaincy, and Home Health. Sandy's leadership expanded the division to include Nutrition Services and Volunteer Services. In the 1990s and until 2006 she was a key member of the Ethics Committee. She also was a part of team that was focused on improving geriatric care at DHMC. This work laid a foundation for the development of the DHMC Aging Resource Center.

Throughout her career, Sandy focused on creating a supportive network for patients and their families. She led the reorganization of the Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Home Health Agency into the Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice of Vermont and New Hampshire (VNA/VNH) and continued her involvement as a member of its Board of Directors. When asked why she stayed at DHMC, Sandy said:

"I think the major reason I have stayed here is that this organization has always been open to creative ideas and opportunities to explore new things. Being given the freedom to come up with an idea like creating a new division of departments is pretty unique."

Sandy was appointed to the State Board of Nursing in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She was deeply committed to its mission of safeguarding life, health, and public welfare, and protecting the people of the state from unauthorized, unqualified, and improper nursing practices.

She was passionate about developing the next generation of nurses and healthcare leaders within the DHMC system. Sandy was a gentle leader who set high expectations and encouraged many nurses to strive for professional success. Upon her retirement, the Sandy Dickau Patient and Family Centered Nursing Award was established to honor nurses who exemplify her dedication to patient-centered care.

Sandy will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments but for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering compassion. She had a gift for making everyone feel valued-whether a patient, colleague, or friend. Her laughter could brighten the toughest days, and her calm presence brought comfort in times of uncertainty. Sandy believed in the power of listening and always took time to understand the needs of others. She loved mentoring young nurses, sharing her wisdom generously, and celebrating their successes as if they were her own.

As an artist-and co-owner of a small craft business-Sandy enjoyed creating things with her hands. Sandy was known for being an innovative whimsical crafter. After Sandy retired, she continued to serve the community through the Lebanon Arts and Craft Association as its president for two years and continued to be a contributing member.

She enjoyed traveling to many countries that allowed her to meet new people and continue her joy of photographing wildlife.

Sandy is survived by her lifelong friend Fay Youells, Lebanon, New Hampshire, her sister Karen [Tom] Conrad, Elk Grove, California, an Aunt Audrey Govinchuck, Regina, Canada, a niece and two nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, [Gwendolyn Crispin].

Sandy will not be having any services at this immediate time. An online guestbook is available to leave a message of condolence for Sandy's family by visiting www.rickerfuneralhome.com