Sandra L. Koch

Sandra Lee (Vonesh) Koch passed away on June 21,2026. Born on January 28, 1942, in Jolliet, Illinois, Sandy was the daughter of Ralph and Ida Vonesh. She spent her early years in Chicago until her family relocated to Glen Ellen, Illinois, in 1951. Sandy completed her freshman year at Glenbard High School before moving to Wilmette, Illinois, where she attended New Trier High School and graduated in 1960. Music was an integral part of Sandy’s life. She was an accomplished pianist, often playing the piano or organ for church events. Sandra attended the University of Denver, where she completed her first year of studies. She then transferred to Lake Forest College, where she graduated in 1964. In 1974 she moved to Sarasota, Florida, with her two young daughters, Kristin and Katie. Sandra served as the school secretary for Betty Tacket School and later for Tuttle Elementary School. She retired from her school position in 1996 and transitioned into a fulfilling career as a cruise travel agent. Sandra loved her work and enjoyed planning memorable cruises for her many loyal clients and her family. Her love for travel started as a young child with her family and extended well after her retirement from the cruise industry, as she continued to enjoy frequent and extensive journeys all around the world. She generously shared these trips with family members and friends. Sandra’s life was marked by the loss of her parents, Ralph and Ida Vonesh, and her eldest daughter, Kristin. She is survived by her daughter Kathryn (Joseph) Churms, her granddaughter Hannah Churms, her sister Eleanor (Vonesh) Charchut (Leonard), her nephews Bradley (Erin) Charchut and Steven (Heather) Charchut, and five grand nieces and nephew. Sandy faithfully ensured that we each received a special rendition of both “Happy Birthday” and our traditional family birthday song which she played on the piano, either in person or over the phone. She was kind and loving to everyone she met and will be greatly missed. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Maureen Bradley, her loving neighbor and long-time family friend, for always treating her like a second mother. We also express sincere appreciation to her special friend, Joan Romero, who shared several travels with her, provided invaluable assistance with Sandy’s medical issues and often invited her to stay at her home when Sandy was ill. A Celebration of Life is planned at Toale Brothers Funeral Home, 40 N. Orange Avenue, Sarasota, FL on Monday, June 29, 2026 at 11:00 AM In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to your favorite charity.

Tributes

Sandra L. Koch

January 28, 1942 - June 21, 2026