Sandra Jean Adams (Dunham)

Sandra Jean Adams (Dunham), a longtime resident of Colfax, Washington, passed away on June 22, 2024, at the age of 82. Sandy was born in Billings, Montana, on July 23, 1941, to Frank and Gertrude Dunham. She was the third of six children but grew up as the eldest. During her childhood, her family moved frequently. Sandy attended elementary school in Hardin, Montana, through the 2nd grade, followed by Kennewick, Washington, where she went to school in the barracks from 3rd to 5th grade. She then attended St. Patrick's Catholic School for 6th grade. She continued her education at St. Mary's Catholic School in Moscow, Idaho, and graduated from Moscow High School in 1959.

Sandy pursued psychology at Gonzaga University, where she met Algene, the love of her life. They were introduced by Lillian Cook, the aunt of Sandy's high school best friend Judy Olsen, who worked with Al in the Air Force. Their love story began at a Christmas dance where they swapped dates, and they married a year later on December 2, 1961, celebrating 62 years together and raising four children.

Sandy dedicated herself to raising her children and became known for her exceptional cooking. As her children grew more independent, Sandy returned to work, first as a teller at Old National Bank, then as a secretary at Dr. Tulin's office, and concluded her career at Inland Eye Center before retiring in December 2005 upon being diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Sandy was a trooper and a survivor!

A social butterfly, Sandy enjoyed her monthly pinochle group and embraced winter months as snowbirds in Arizona with Al. She was best known for her cooking, gambling skills, and being the master of shopping (so much so that the family called her the "energizer bunny"). Sandy was also an accomplished quilter, putting lots of love into every quilt she made.

A devout Catholic, Sandy actively participated in church life, serving as both a member of the Catholic Daughters and a Eucharistic Minister, managing church books for many years. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church walls, volunteering her time as a Cub Scout den mother, Campfire leader, school room mother, chaperone for field trips, and Meals on Wheels.

Preceded in death by her parents Frank and Gertrude Dunham, and sisters Francis Jane and Gale Patricia Dunham, Sandy is survived by her husband Algene Adams; children Alan (Tracey) Adams, Bryan Adams, JoLynn (Ed) Foulon, and Alijean (Jeff) Bays; 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; sisters Judith (Joe) Nemec and Carol Wright; brother Frank Dunham; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sandra Jean Adams leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and resilience, touching the lives of many through her warmth, dedication, and unwavering spirit. Services were held on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at St. Patrick's in Colfax, WA.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be sent to Hospice House of Spokane.