Sandra Crooks

sandra crooks
Sandra Jo Crooks, age 82 of Ionia, IA, died Saturday, December 2, 2023, at her home. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Trinity Lutheran Church, New Hampton, with Pastor Kevin Frey presiding. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, rural Charles City. Friends may greet the family 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at the Hugeback Johnson Funeral Home and Crematory in New Hampton. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Sandra Jo Crooks was born August 19, 1941, in New Hampton, IA, the daughter of Joseph and Zenovia (Babcock) Kelly.Sandra's early life in New Hampton was filled with learning and growth, culminating in her graduation from New Hampton High in 1959. It was also in this nurturing community where Sandra's heart found its match. She met Darrell Crooks on a double date at a skating party, an encounter that skated them smoothly into a lifelong partnership. The couple wed on June 13, 1959, at Trinity Lutheran Church, beginning a journey of love and companionship that would bless them with three children: Kendra, Durrell, and Dennis. In her early years, she worked diligently at Powells Variety Store, saving to buy a wedding ring for Darrell, a testament to her determination and commitment. She also helped on the family farm. Sandra also served the children of her community for over 37 years as a school bus driver, retiring in a touching parallel with her mother Zenovia's retirement from the same noble profession. Furthermore, Sandra's love for baking was shared with many through her time at the local bakery, where she worked alongside her daughter Kendra, creating sweet memories and sweeter treats. Her family and friends enjoyed the special cakes she made for them including wedding cakes. Her passion for making breads and pies was obvious by the way they lovingly fought over her treats. The couple cherished their time together, whether they were fishing and boating, enjoying card parties, or traveling to picturesque destinations like Mexico, Alaska, and Florida. Sandra's zest for life was infectious, and her smile was as warm as the sun on a clear day. Shopping trips with her mother and, in later years, with her grandchildren, were not merely errands but adventures that strengthened the bonds of family. Those who know Sandra will remember her for her teasing ways, a playful spirit that brought laughter and happiness to any gathering. Her smile was a universal language that welcomed friends and strangers alike, turning the latter into the former with ease. Sandra was the epitome of friendliness and spirit, qualities that defined her and endeared her to all. Sandra's journey was one marked by love and a spirit that uplifted everyone she encountered. Survivors include her husband, Darrell of Ionia; children, Kendra (Doug) Walker of Clear Lake, IA; Dennis (Kendra) Crooks of New Hampton; daughter-in-law, Sonya Crooks of Ionia; eight grandchildren, Justin Crooks, Brandon Crooks, Natasha Crooks, Jenna Crooks, Alysha Walker, Adam Walker, Shawn Crooks, Kim Klohn; eight grandchildren and a great-great-grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Durrell Crooks on December 12, 2011; her in-laws, Don (Rosella Marvin) Crooks.

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  1. Sandy was a great neighbor and bus driver. Alot of great memories with her and family. Sorry to hear of her passing.

  2. Sending prayers and thoughts to Darrell, Kendra and Dennis. and their family’s. She was a special lady.

  3. Our sympathy to the family. She was our bus driver and neighbor, she maybe did not always like me but, she did grow to like me. I think it was more of a joke between us about our dislike. Every time we saw each other we would laugh about it! Remember the good times. Hugs to you all.

  4. I’m Lynne Lassen DIBADJ, your mom and I were cousins. I’ve never met any of you but your thoughts and prayers are with you, I live in St. Louis area
    When your mom and I were very little girls we lived together at my grandmother house. Her name was Cora and her youngest brother was your mom’s dad. My mother’s name was Carmella. We all stayed together at that time when our dads were in WWII,
    So sorry for your loss

  5. I have the fondest memories of Sandy, my school bus driver from Kinder until I started driving myself to school. She was always kind to me and I remember as a young elementary student thinking she was so cool. She wore a ton of bracelets that jangled when she drove and she played the “cool” stations on the radio. She was a gem in my eyes. My condolences to her family. Kimberly Steege-Davis

  6. Lynn thank you greatly for your memories of grandma, if you are on Facebook I’d love to add you as a friend. The family also thanks you for your kinds words. 💕

  7. On behalf of the family we thank you for your kind words. I can tell you she was very fond of the Deutsch family as well 💕

  8. The world has lost a beautiful lady. Sandra always had a kind word and a sense of humor that could always get you to smile and feel good. She loved elephants, her dogs, but more than anything she loved people. Keeping the family in my prayers. Sandra has gone to a better place but she’ll never be forgotten here. Love you Sandra Crooks

  9. I am so very sorry for your loss! Your wife and mother is a treasure in your life to cherish even now. May you embrace her love and memories. She lives with God and in your hearts. My sincere sympathy!

  10. My sympathy goes out to Darrell and family. She always had a wave & a smile from her bus driver’s seat. Kids will remember her! She always took time to help and take care of her Mother. You will be missed ! RIP Sandra


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