Sandra Lee Brown

Sandra Lee Brown (Gammy) passed away on Nov. 5, 2023, at the age of 87.

She was born June 26, 1936, in New Richland, Minnesota, to parents Hannah and Rueben Burtness. Sandra was a graduate of St. Olaf College, where she sang in the St. Olaf choir. She married Wayne (Brownie) Brown in 1957 and soon left for Morocco, Africa. For the next three years, while Brownie served in the Air Force, they created many special memories and great friendships. The couple was able to tour the world and gave birth to their daughter, Natalie.

Upon their return to Minnesota, they had a son, Gregg, who was born in South Saint Paul. They then moved to Eden Prairie, where they spent the next 36 years. Sandra loved her golf at Olympic Hills Golf Club and their place on Hilton Head Island. She was also an avid tennis player, reader, Vikings fan, and decorator. They also had many fond memories of their summer house in Lake City, Minnesota, where they spent many years golfing and relaxing. After Brownie’s death in 2005, she moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, to be closer to family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Wayne Brown; her grandson, Tyler Vandeventer; and her sister, Audrey Johnson.

She is survived by her daughter, Natalie Vandeventer (Dirk); her son, Gregory Brown (Judy); grandchildren Hannah Vandeventer, Ashley Brown, Austin Brown, and Taylor Brown; brother, Neil Burtness; and sister, Natalie Edgar. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life at a later date in Minnesota.