Sandra L. Hagness
Sandra Lee Hagness, 65, peacefully passed away on November 29, 2024, surrounded by love. Her strength and beauty never wavered.
Sandy was born on October 26, 1959. Her forever family brought her home to West Allis, Wisconsin, in 1961. From an early age, she developed a love for the water, spending her summers happily pruned and excelling as a diver on Nathan Hale’s swim team. At 17, with determination and a packed car, she drove to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, becoming the first in her family to earn a college degree. After meeting her future husband, Rick, she moved to Durand, where she kick-started her social work career as an activities coordinator, bringing fun, movement, and compassion to those in her care.
She continued to live her life that way - jumping in head first, always on the move, not afraid to have fun, and leading with kindness. She built a beautiful home, family, and life on the outskirts of Durand, where she could often be found walking, jogging, or biking along South Prairie Lane. Her home became a gathering place filled with memories of Packer parties, spirited board games, and bountiful gardens.
In 2013, she was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic melanoma. In true Sandy fashion, she defied all the odds and spent the next 11 years truly understanding and embracing what was most important to her: quality time with the ones she loved most. She taught her grandchildren the joy of silliness and showed everyone around her the true meaning of strength. She earned the nickname “Turbo.”
Sandy is preceded in death by her parents, Walter “Jim” and Dolores “Toni” Radler. She is survived by her devoted husband, Richard; their children, Ryan (Justine) and Samantha (Kevin); her grandchildren, Lanny and Dylan; and her siblings, Beth and James. Her kindness, strength, and humor will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew and loved her.
Sandy’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and resilience. She leaves behind a family forever shaped by her warmth and courage and a community enriched by her generous spirit.
A visitation will be held at Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand on Thursday, December 5th, from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 6th, at 2 PM at Faith Lutheran Church in Durand.
A celebration of life will follow at the Corral Bar & Riverside Grill from 3:30-8:00 PM.
Memorials are preferred in Sandy’s name to Faith Lutheran Church in Durand to support youth ministry, Welcome Home Assisted Living in Elmwood as a way to say thank you to all of the residents who embraced Sandy in her final weeks, or the organization of your choice.