Richard (Rick) George Sandell, a proud veteran of the Marine Corps, passed away on October 12, 2024, from complications of liver cancer.
He was born on January 19, 1956 to Carol and George Sandell and grew up in New Brighton, MN.
Following in his father’s footsteps, at the age of 17, Rick enlisted in the Marine Corps. He was a proud Marine and attained the rank of E5 Sargent (Rifle Marksman Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal). He was honorably discharged in 1977 after years of service. Following the military, he had a successful career as a welder for 30+ years.
He will be greatly missed by his loving family: Wife, Wendy Sandell; Daughter, Kaylynn Sandell Young (Steve Maas); Granddaughters, Annabel & Haley Sandell Young; Parent: Carol Sandell; Siblings: Dave (Christie) Sandell, Jimmy Sandell; Debra (Gregg) Balfany; Todd (Patricia) Sandell; In-laws: Dale & Pat Pearson, Jeff & Sherry Pearson, Tracy & Jeff Madden, Holly & Rick Walters; Neices: Molly Hogan, Megan Sandell, Selena Melvin, Katie Madden, Kelly Madden, Sophia Walters; Nephews: Jacob Balfany, Brandon Sandell, Jake Sandell, Matt Pearson, Kevin Madden, William Walters; Life long friends: Dale & Shelley Vadnais; Dan & Connie Harris; and his beloved dog Tippy. He was preceded in death by his son Will, father George Sandell, and other family members.
Rick found joy being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and boating with family and friends. He looked forward to fishing shenanigans with his nephew Matt, and spending time in the shop with Jeff (or as they both would say…“brother from another mother”), and tinkering in the garage.
Rick loved spending time with his granddaughters listening to music, cracking jokes and sharing snacks. He cherished making and sharing different foods with the girls…waffles, rice crispy treats & buttered saltine crackers. UNO will forever be remembered as Grandpa’s game.
He will be laid to rest with a private burial at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery – Preston, MN.
Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, October 20 at the American Legion, 11 N Madison Ave, Eyota, MN from 2-5pm CT.
May your family receive blessings abundantly. I remember your great humor and jovality despite all the discomfort you endured with your failing health. No more pain…bright golden sunshine eternal bestowed on you.
Wendy-
Thank you for moving to Eyota so that I had the opportunity to meet Rick, and yourself. What a delightful goofball he was. I will treasure our memories forever. Semper Fi my friend and God Bless.
Beloved Rick,
Welcome Home, Dear One! ♥️
From our earliest days as cousins, throughout my college career and into our adulthoods, You were a joyful, loving and kind Friend. Thank You for sharing a myriad memories with me throughout our lives. Most importantly, I am grateful for the time You “carved out” for us in Your last month Earthside. . . between Your profound pain and Your many hospitalizations. You will always be securely tucked away in my Heart, precious Rick. I’ll stay connected to Your darling Wendy. I KNOW You will keep watch over all of us, left here to continue our journeys, without Your mighty presence. PLEASE share my Eternal Love with all of my Family and Friends who are now Your roommates, especially my Beloved Raven and my Beloved Son Kellen. Enjoy Your Wholeness, Rick. With Love and Gratitude, Cousin Di ❤️
RSP Rick you were the best of friends I will miss you forever
My thoughts and sympathy to all the family. Lenny Sandell sends his condolences to you all too.
I feel honored that I was able to spend time with Rick and family on Mother’s Day this year.
Rest easy my friend you deserve it .Connie and I will miss you and your infectious laugh! During one of our last conversations you asked me to help Wendy if she needed it I told you that I would ,I also made the comment that she was pretty independent and you let loose with that laugh and said believe me I know . I could thank you for many things but most of all thank you for our friendship .
My condolences you two were the perfect couple I’m sorry I never knew Rick he seemed like a really honest and honorable man I know you are hurting right now in time your heart will heal! I’m happy with what I have just letting you know god’s promise that they all that we love will be there waiting for us
My condolences to you on the loss your husband Rick. You two were the perfect couple. He sounds like an honest and honorable man. I wish I would have known him. You and Kaylynn will be strength for each other during this difficult time. My wife and I will continue to keep you in our thoughts.