Sandra Lee Hlousek Gedridge

Sandra Lee Hlousek Gedridge, 75, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2019 in Eagar. She was born May 1, 1943 in Waukegan, Illinois to Fred C. Hlousek and Frances B. Dietz Hlousek. She was the eldest of five children.

Sandy grew up in North Chicago, attending Holy Rosary School and Good Counsel High School. She enjoyed a large and close extended family. In September of 1964 Sandy married Jack Rood, Sr. Their adventures included two children, Michelle and Jack. When the children were young they sold their home, purchased a travel trailer and during the following three years visited more than half of the 50 United States. They later settled in Phoenix and then Heber. They enjoyed 16 years together and Sandy loved taking care of her home and family.

Later Sandy returned to the Phoenix area where her career included operating a small retail business for several years. She then contributed 17 years as a retail associate for Wal-mart. In her later years Sandy lived in Flagstaff near her sister, Beth, then Chandler near her sister, Mel and brother, Fred and finally Show Low near her daughter, Michelle. No matter where she was, she always formed special bonds and friendships that blessed her life.

In her final years, Sandy enjoyed her time at the Beehive Home and could often be found in the common areas making new friends. Sandy’s quick wit, easy smile, contagious laugh and ability to find and share humor in even the most difficult of life’s situations, will be missed. She lifted the spirits of those around her. Her spunk and sass entertained us all. Sandy was also known for quiet and kind acts of service, holding a hand, patting a knee and whispering kindness into another’s ear.

Sandy was sweet and tender towards animals and loved angels, people and God. She passed down her love of baking; especially cookies, to her daughter and grandchildren, whose kitchens are filled with her knitted washcloths. She loved and supported her family in their milestones and accomplishments and was so proud of them. Sandy will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Sandy is survived by her son, Jack (Jennifer) Rood, Tucson; daughter, Michelle (Mark) Madrid, Springerville; brothers, Freddie Hlousek, Bobby Hlousek, sisters, Melanie Hlousek Snider, Marybeth Hlousek Smith, and 4 grandchildren, Dustin Schabatka, Kaylee (Mika) Abatti, Dillon (Kylee) Schabatka, and Jase Schabatka.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her sweet Beehive friend, Virginia Peluso.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, March 15, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Burnham Mortuary, Eagar, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow the funeral services at the Eagar Cemetery.