Sandra Jean Paavola (Hendrickson)

Republic, MI - Sandra passed away on September 16, 2025, at her home, in the loving arms of her husband and daughter following a courageous, nearly 2-year battle with cancer.

Sandra Jean Hendrickson was born on September 8, 1961, in Ishpeming MI, to her devoted parents Reino and Irja (Mattson) Hendrickson. She is a 1979 graduate of Republic-Michigamme High School. Shortly following graduation from high school, she obtained her Certified Nurse's Aide certificate and began her career at Mather Nursing home, she later transitioned to Marquette General Hospital in housekeeping. Sandra was very hard-working and a natural born caregiver; taking wonderful care of her residents at work and her family at home. Her family will never be able to fill the void that her passing has left.

Sandra married Neil Paavola on May 26, 1984, in Republic, MI. Together they have one daughter and one grandson. Sandra's daughter Jessica was her greatest pride and her grandson Deacon was her greatest joy. She said her only regret in life was that she wasn't going to be there to watch her grandson grow up.

Sandra was a lifelong member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic, MI. The thing Sandra loved most was spending time with her family, playing with her grandson and spoiling their many fur babies through the years.

Sandra is preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents, her father Reino W. Hendrickson, brother David R. Hendrickson and father and mother-in-law, Nels and Betty Paavola.

Sandra leaves behind her husband of 41 years, Neil Paavola, daughter Jessica (Michael) Froberg, grandson Deacon Froberg, step-grandchildren Bryant (Katy) Froberg and Bailey (Wyatt) Froberg. Mother Irja Hendrickson. Sister Marie (Albert) Carlson, brother Gordon (Renee) Hendrickson. Sisters-in-law Gail Landtroop, Susan Paavola, Pamela (Tim) Frisk, brother-in-law Paul Paavola. Several nieces, nephews and cousins. All of whom are going to miss Sandra immensely.

Her family would like to thank UPHS-Marquette Cancer Center and U.P. Home Health and Hospice for their care and support throughout Sandra's illness.

Following Sandra's wishes a small graveside service will be held at the Republic Township Cemetery on Wednesday, September 24th, at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Alex Ross will be officiating. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be held at the Bethany Republic Lutheran Church for Sandra's family and friends.