Gregory Kent Sandstrom

April 13, 1947- March 29, 2023

Greg Sandstrom, age 75, passed away from cancer as a result of Crohn’s disease on March 29. His short but intense illness was eased his last day by the care of Pikes Peak Hospice in Colorado Springs. Greg was the only child of Bernice (Bert) and Ralph (Sandy) Sandstrom in Herington, Kansas. He graduated from Herington High School and continued his education at Kansas State and Emporia State University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in theatre education and a Master’s degree in school administration. Greg joined Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) at age nineteen and was deeply impacted by the poverty yet joy he found in the residents of St. Lawrence County New York. This experience would shape Greg throughout his life as he benevolently worked with at-risk teens and underserved minorities in Kansas, Nebraska, and Alaska school settings. He had a gift for deeply listening to people, allowing them to feel heard and valued. Greg cherished diversity, community, and inclusivity throughout his life, along with songs by Bob Dylan and the poetry of e.e.cummings.  Greg loved the outdoors, so photography, fly fishing, and golf were his favorite hobbies though Crohn’s prevented him from immersing himself in these passions. Later in life, he became a voracious reader. Greg was a gentle and supportive husband to Jane whom he married in Fairbanks Alaska on May 22, 1999. Together they created a family with beloved rescued canines for almost 24 years. Greg is survived by his wife, Jane, and dogs Lucy, Sadie, & Pedro, cousins, and treasured friends. 

A Celebration of Greg’s life will be held at First Congregational Church (20 E. St. Vrain Street, Colorado Springs) on April 13, 2023 at 4pm. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please give a donation in Greg’s memory to Dumb Friends League, the Wild Animal Sanctuary, or the Dalmatian Rescue of Colorado. 

Special thanks to Pikes Peak Hospice, Dr. Elena Sidorenko, Dr. Alan Bernas, and Dr. Aimee Battaglia for their immense help throughout Greg’s severe illness.