Sandra J. “Sandy” (Snyder) Buikema, 79, of Morrison, IL, died Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at OSF St. Anthony Hospital in Rockford, IL.
Sandy was born November 12, 1946, in Morrison, the daughter of Edward E. “Doc” and Marian E. (Renkes) Snyder. She was a graduate of Morrison High School. Sandy worked for GE as an Administrative Assistant for several years, before later working in manufacturing Cold Controls. She was fortunate to retire early and enjoyed making the most of her retirement years. She later worked at JCPenney, Workman’s, and Community State Bank, choosing jobs that allowed her to interact with people and stay connected to her community. Sandy was a true social butterfly, and her relationships with others meant everything to her. She made many wonderful friends throughout her life, many of whom became like family. She also loved to travel and traveled extensively, including visits to Japan, China, Europe, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Africa, The Netherlands, Australia, and Fiji. She treasured time spent with friends, the adventures of traveling, and the many people who brought joy and friendship into her life.
Survivors include her daughters, Nicole (John) Havenaar of Indianapolis, IN, and Kimberly (Pete Readman) Buikema of Brooklyn, NY; two grandchildren, Josephine and Jacob Havenaar; sister, Cindy (David) Zeglis of Naples, FL; brother, Steven (Pamela) Snyder of Naples; many amazing friends whom she loved as family.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Per Sandy’s wishes, Cremation Rites have been accorded.
A Memorial Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Friday, August 21, 2026, at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home.
A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 p.m., at the funeral home, with Rich Criss, Ministry Coordinator at Emmanuel Church in Morrison, officiating.
Interment will be at Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison, IL, with Ken Renkes officiating.
Memorials may be made to the Morrison School Foundation.