Sandra Elizabeth "Sandie" Braasch

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the peaceful passing of Sandra Elizabeth Braasch (Crownson) on October 10, 2025. Known to many as Sandie, she was a beloved mom, sister, aunt, friend, neighbor, and colleague. She will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, resilience, fun-loving spirit, and infectious smile.

Sandie was born on July 15, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, and spent her life in the southwest suburbs. She devoted her entire career to serving the community as a nurse at Palos Hospital, where she cared for countless patients with grace and generosity. Even in retirement, she continued to volunteer at the hospital, embodying the same warmth and dedication that defined her life.

She was especially devoted to supporting fellow cancer patients and their families, both as a nurse and as a volunteer. Last August, in a poignant full-circle moment, Sandie received care on the very floor where she once worked as an oncology nurse.

More than anything, Sandie cherished being a mom. She poured her heart into raising her son, Jason Braasch, and embraced his wife, Claire Gaynor, as a daughter with open arms. Her pride in their lives was evident to all who knew her, and her legacy will live on in the kindness, strength, and joy she instilled in them.

In the months ahead, Jason and Claire will continue their love of traveling with Sandie, spreading her ashes in the places she loved most or hoped to visit. They will carry her spirit with them always. Jason and Claire extend heartfelt gratitude to the Victorian Village community for their compassionate care during Sandie’s final weeks. They also wish to thank the friends and neighbors who supported Sandie as her mobility decreased, whose companionship and practical help made a meaningful difference in her daily life.

A celebration of Sandie’s life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem), Orland Park, IL 60462. Guests are invited to gather and visit from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a service beginning at 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are welcomed in honor of Sandie’s lifelong commitment to helping others. Contributions may be made through Sandie’s memorial fundraising page, created to continue her legacy of compassion and care. Click here to donate online.