Sandi remembered by friends and family
“Sandi left a footprint in this world, one of kindness, passion, friendship and so much more.”
Selfless, passionate, and loving friend. These are some of the words that many used to describe Sandi van Tonder.
Sandi, who died on January 13 after a battle with cancer, was well known to her community for the amazing work she did for charity and the Cansa organisation. Her daughter, Jacqui Vermaak, said she made an impact on the lives of everyone she met.
“Her heart of gold always had place for one more person in need. Reading all the messages of condolences on Facebook made me realise how many lives she touched.
“My mom brought joy, be it just with her smile or by the immense amount of time she spent raising funds for causes, big and small,” said Jacqui.
She said her mother fought till the end. “Mom looked cancer in the face and said ‘I’ll fight you to the end’, and that is what she did. She faced every day with faith and her belief in God and that His will be done.”
She said Sandi was not one to complain, not even about pain. “When she was no longer able to communicate verbally, her frail body spoke it’s own story,” said Jacqui.
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She described Sandi as a warrior and comforter. “Mom did not want us to cry and when we did, she would wrap a weary arm around us and give a gentle kiss on the neck and whisper ‘Don’t cry, God is in control’. We as a family find comfort in the knowledge that mom is now at peace,” said Jacqui.
Former chairperson of We Love Kensington and now Lambton resident Lornette Joseph said Sandi’s death broke her heart.
“It broke my heart when the family told me she had died. Sandi was the most energetic and kindest person I know. She loved her family, her friends, her cause and God,” said Lornette. She shared what their relationship meant to her.
“After my mom died, Sandi became another mom. She was always ready to offer advice, guidance or just a shoulder. I feel like I have lost my mom all over again. My heart goes out to the family. I want to thank them for sharing their wife, mom and granny with the community,” said Lornette.
Clr Carlos Da Rocha described her as passionate and committed. “Her passion and commitment was unbelievable. She had a drive to get things done. She was kind and very committed to help people in what to me looks like one of the most emotionally difficult jobs in the world,” said Carlos.
“Her friendship will be missed by so many people she touched throughout the years,” said Carlos.
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