Sandra Lynn Staniland

Sandra Lynn Staniland

1958-2026

Sandra Staniland was born on December 30, 1958, in Swan River, MB to Cathy and Alex Skalzoob. She passed on peacefully, on May 9, 2026, knowing her children were with her.

Sandra’s life work was centered around her family and their home, and around friends and staying connected with the people she cared about. Her most important and most valued roles were Mom and Grammie. She was so proud of her children and grandchildren and was always so excited to see them, talk to them, and share about them. Even with other friends and relatives, Sandra would get so excited about babies and newborns and was always so eager to hold, hug, snuggle, and spoil them. She loved kids and would gladly sit on the floor with them to play with toys, read books, or play games.

On December 24, 1977, Sandra happily married her husband, Doug. Being his wife was also a role that she loved and enjoyed. Together they built a life and family from their home in Minitonas, MB. In March of 1983, they welcomed their first son Christopher, followed by Jason in 1991 and daughter Katherine in 1994. She loved her kids and their families strongly and unconditionally.

Sandra lovingly served her family. She made sure everyone was fed, the laundry was done and folded, and always meticulously put away. Lunches were always packed, beds were made, and dishes were done. It’s amazing that the floors didn’t wear out, just from the number of times each day they were swept and vacuumed while the kids were growing up.

Staying connected was also something she loved and prioritized. If you were someone she cared about, you could count on regular phone calls and check ins, gifts, treats, and tokens of appreciation.

Sandra liked animals, especially dogs, and she liked trips to the farm, and visits to see relatives and friends. Her favourite trip was in 2016 when she went to Maui with her kids, daughter’s in-law, and grandkids. She was so happy to see and experience it all together.

She loved to play games, was lighthearted and caring, loved to laugh, and always was emotional at every short- or long-term goodbye. Her hardest goodbye was in 2006 when she suddenly lost her husband in an accident. On top of her health battles and illnesses, she lived for 20 years with a broken heart that desperately missed the man she loved.

Sandra will be missed, but always lovingly remembered. She had great friends, family, and neighbors around her throughout her life, and she cared about and cherished them all. Her life and legacy serve as a reminder to always make time for each other, build simple memories, and be intentional about staying connected.

In keeping with her desire to continue helping those she loved and cared about, anyone wishing to contribute to her memory can give to “Friends and Family of Sandra Staniland” at the Swan Valley Credit Union., in support of Sandra's grandchildren, family, and friends.