October 5, 1947 – November 28, 2019
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Sandra Louise Chambers. Sandra passed away peacefully, surrounded by her closest family, in Salmon Arm BC, on November 28, 2019 at the age of 72.
Sandra was born on October 5, 1947 in Calgary, AB to a joyful Alf and Annie Pettersen. Sandra grew up with her younger sister Brenda in southwest Calgary. She spent her younger years attached to any kitty or puppy that came along, a trait that would follow her throughout her life. She loved horses, and worked hard on her horseback riding skills, eventually competing in the Alberta Lighthorse Association horse show in dressage in her teens, winning many red ribbons in competitions. During high school, Sandra worked as a cashier at Safeway, a perfect fit for her as a first job, as she loved chatting with everyone and had an incredible ability to remember numbers (all those produce codes by heart!)
After graduating from Western Canada High School in 1966, Sandra went on to complete her secretarial studies at Henderson Secretarial School at Mount Royal College. This occupation was again a perfect fit for her, as she was also a gifted organizer and planner, and was adept at communicating on behalf of the executives she worked for. Her time working at Pacific 66 was a cherished memory for her and a highlight to her working years. It was here that she made many lifelong friends and met the love of her life.
In 1978, Sandra married her devoted friend and love, Mel Chambers. Together they made their home in Calgary, and over the years welcomed two children into their lives. Her children, Denise and Matthew, were the joy of her life. Sandra was a devoted mother who always made the time to listen and give advice and always encouraged her kids’ unique abilities and interests. Through her actions, Sandra always demonstrated that Denise and Matt were the highest priority in her life.
Sandra loved people. She made friends easily and cherished her many friendships. She loved to golf, dance, curl, play bridge and canasta, and swim. From a young age, Sandra had always wanted to see the world (she even planned to be a flight attendant at one point so she could do this) and travelling was one of her biggest passions. Mel and Sandra travelled extensively over their years together, venturing to many countries on every continent, and making lasting memories together of their many adventures.
In recent years, Mel and Sandra spent their winters in Peoria, Arizona. Sandra always hated the cold weather and she was overjoyed when they made the decision to become snowbirds. She loved Arizona not just for the climate, but for the many friends she made there, whether they were neighbors, golfing partners, or her canasta group. Three years ago, and after many years of planning and dreaming, Mel and Sandra made the decision to leave Calgary and build their dream summer home in Salmon Arm BC, overlooking beautiful Shuswap Lake. To Sandra, this was the perfect place, as she spent much of her childhood in Salmon Arm and had many fond memories. Of course, like everywhere she went, Sandra made many close friendships there.
Sandra will be sadly missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her husband Mel, her children Denise and Matt, her sister Brenda (Ron), and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.