Sandra Dossett (Reid) Studer, of Atwood, KS, passed away Monday,
December 6, 2021, at St. Catherine’s Hospital in Garden City, KS. She
was born March 2, 1946, in Chicago, IL, to Wylie and June (Stevens)
Reid. She graduated from Maine Township High School East in 1964. While
attending Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO she met her ‘Mr.
Elegant’—Phil Studer. They married on June 9, 1965.
Sandy was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Linda Wellborn.
She is survived by her husband, Phil, of Atwood; children, David
(Loretta) Studer, of Atwood, KS; Mary (John) Hallman, of Dodge City, KS;
and Mark (Renea) Studer, of Lenexa, KS; sister, Marcia Heston, of
Davenport, FL; seven grandchildren, three great grandchildren, one
niece, and one nephew.
Sandy lived in Edison Park, IL until the 6th grade, at which time her
family moved to Park Ridge, IL. She enjoyed Campfire Girls during her
childhood years, which sparked an interest and ultimately a lifelong
passion for the history of American Indians. During her high school
years, she was a member of the Mounted Mainites, a horseback riding
club, riding in shows each year. Her love for horses extended well into
her adulthood. Her, Phil and the kids often traveled in the summer
months to Appaloosa Horse Shows where she enjoyed showing Bam-Bam.
Music brought Sandy much joy. She sang in the High School Girls Choir
and Concert Choir as well as the church choir, and later in life enjoyed
several concert tours with The Festival Chorus, including a trip to
Europe. Among her musical talents included playing guitar—a gift she
shared with her father.
Sandy loved traveling. She and Phil made wonderful memories exploring
Australia, Hong Kong, and many other countries on their multiple Cruise
trips—her favorite being one that took them around the world. Along
their travels both near and far, if there was a casino to be found,
Sandy could be ‘found’ at the slot machines—a pastime she enjoyed,
likely because she had an uncanny ability to win!
Her talents didn’t stop with the slots. She embroidered, made crafts and
was an incredible seamstress—making many of the costumes worn at the
annual New Year’s Eve parties held in their home. Her canning, cooking
and baking, of which family and friends enjoyed throughout her lifetime,
were the highlight at many social gatherings. Hours were spent with her
children, grandchildren, and other family teaching the finer details of
her recipes.
Outside her own four walls, Sandy gave of her time in numerous community
organizations which included serving as Chairman for both Rawlins
County Fair Board and Rawlins County Bloodmobile. Her involvement with
4-H was a shining example of her commitment to the younger generations
in her community. She gave of herself tirelessly to equip kids of all
ages with life skills they could use and enjoy for years to come. Many
young people learned how to ride and show horses, sew, bake, speak in
public, and so much more.
Sandy and Phil shared a common love—their love for each other and their
family. She was her happiest when she was surrounded by her children and
their families. She will be remembered for all she gave to others, her
beautiful tenor voice, and her bright smile.
Visitation will be 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Sunday,
December 12, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood. Funeral Mass
will take place at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 13, 2021, at the church,
with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. The family requests that
masks be worn. Memorials may be made to the Christian Mothers Altar
Society or RCHC Healthcare Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann
Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences
visit www.baalmannmortuary.com