Don Sandman, 82
Don Sandman, 82, passed away Nov. 4, 2006, at his home in Helena. He was born in Dale, Minn., on July 15, 1924, the son of Algot and Grace Sandman.
The family moved from Minnesota to Montana, where his father was a signal maintainer for the Burlington Northern Railroad in Glendive. This is where Don learned about cowboy life and developed his love of horses and horsemanship. The family relocated to the Helena area, where he graduated from high school and enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving during World War II. He served in the Pacific until his discharge in 1946.
After his military service he attended the University of Colorado at Fort Collins. He returned to Montana and began a long career with the Burlington Northern Railroad.
He married Juanita Klein in 1951, and they raised two daughters. He served on the Board of Counterpoint, services for the developmentally disabled in Livingston, and was instrumental in their efforts to get a new group home constructed.
He and Juanita retired from the railroad in 1982 and spent winters at their home outside of Yuma, Ariz., for 12 years. He enjoyed a second career selling real estate in the Yuma area. They returned to the Flathead Valley in 1994, where they enjoyed boating on various lakes in the area, delved into the cherry business and built their retirement home. They relocated to Helena in 2004 to be closer to family.
Don enjoyed helping his daughter Linda in the design, construction and management of her assisted living facility, SonHeaven, along with help from Juanita and daughter Diane. He had an endearing love for Montana and an avid interest in the farming and ranching lives of Montanans. He had varied and diverse interests in politics (a loyal Democrat), love of horses and all animals, construction of two family homes, gardening, reading, rodeo and love for his dog, Tucker. He wanted to be remembered as, "A father who loved his wife and daughters above all!"
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jimmie; sister, Dorothy; and grandson, Ross.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Juanita; and daughters, Linda Sandman (Viv Hammill) of Helena, and Diane Sandman of Denver.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be sent to Orphan Acres, an organization dedicated to the rescue of neglected or forgotten horses. Donations in his name can be sent to Orphan Acres, 1183 Rothfork Road, Viola, ID 83872.
Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 512 Logan, Helena.
Retz Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.