Sandra Jean VanDraska, 83, of Grinnell, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, June 12, 2025, under the care of UnityPoint Hospice. Smith Funeral Home is assisting with cremation arrangements. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Sandra was born on September 3, 1941, in Davenport, Iowa, to Deloris Cook Terrell. She spent her early years in Davenport before moving with her parents to Grinnell. There, she completed her education and graduated from Grinnell High School.

On August 11, 1962, Sandra married James VanDraska. Together they built a life in Grinnell and raised two children: Pamela and Scott. Sandra dedicated over three decades of service to GTE, concluding her career as payroll supervisor in 1992.

Sandra found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved camping and fishing and took great pride in tending to her flower gardens. Her adventurous spirit led her to Las Vegas on several occasions where she enjoyed visiting casinos and playing bingo. Closer to home, she was a regular at Meskwaki Casino in Tama, where she attended concerts and continued her love for bingo. Though not always eager to dance, she often found herself on the dance floor with Jim—creating cherished memories along the way.

Known for her strength and independence, Sandra had a clear sense of what she wanted and the determination to see it through. Her time with family was filled with lasting memories that will be treasured by those who knew her.

Sandra is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 63 years, James; her children, Pamela (Glen) Sieck and Scott (Shelley) VanDraska; siblings Bonnie Harvey and Wendell "Bud" Terrell; grandchildren Gregory (Jen) Sieck, Jessica (Andy) Cox, Briar (Catherine) VanDraska, and Tysen (Jordyn) VanDraska; as well as six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be designated to the Family of Sandra VanDraska and mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.