Sandra Kay (Olson) Hurley, age 79, of Harmony, Minn., passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loving family on August 19, 2024, just three weeks short of her 80th birthday.
Sandra was born in Spring Grove, Minn., on September 14, 1944, to Orvel and Rosie (Treangen) Olson. “Sandy,” as she liked to be called, grew up in Mabel, Minn., with her beloved sister Cheryl and brother Craig. She graduated from Mabel High School in 1962. Sandy attended schools for nursing and court stenography.
Throughout her life, Sandy had a variety of jobs, including a nursing assistant, legal secretary, secretary at KFIL radio station, and eventually ran her own home daycare. Sandy had a deep love for taking care of children, especially infants. Her last job, and most favorite, was caring for infants in the “baby room,” at One Block at a Time Daycare, in Preston, Minn.
Above all Sandy cherished spending time with her family and friends. She was known for her kindness, giving spirit, and acceptance of others. Christmas was her favorite holiday. She celebrated with a real tree, her Santa collection, and all that makes Christmas merry.
Sandy enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, crocheting afghans, reading and watching British mysteries.
She married Bernie Hurley on August 16, 1986, blending their two families together, her children Kris and Jamy, and Bernie’s sons Jon, Jay and Mike. They celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary three days before her passing.
Sandy is survived by her husband Bernie Hurley of Harmony, Minn., sister Cheryl (Duane) McDougall of Glencoe, Minn., daughter Kristine Davis of Otsego, Minn., son James (Samantha) Davis of San Antonio, Tex., Jon (Libby) Hurley of Savage, Minn., Jason (Melinda) Hurley of Edina, Minn., and Michael (Amanda) Hurley of Fargo, N. Dak. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Sean, Connor, Megan (Tanner), Braeden (Alyssa), Alyssa, Ashley, Hadleigh, Rowynn, Tyler and a great-grandson Bowen. Also surviving are several stepgrandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition, she leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and her cherished dog Charlie.
She was preceded in death by parents Orvel and Rosie Olson and her brother Craig.
The family extends appreciation to Heartland Hospice Staff for their support during Sandy’s final weeks.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024, at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Harmony, officiated by Pastor Kurt Bockoven. Visitation will be an hour prior to services at the church. Burial will take place at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, Minn.,
Schmelzer (formerly Lindstrom) Funeral Homes took care of arrangements.