Sandra Elaine Conzemius

Sandra (Sandy) Elaine Conzemius, 69, Fargo, North Dakota, died Saturday, November 18, 2017, surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer and multiple sclerosis.

Sandy was born February 14, 1948, in Wahpeton, North Dakota and was raised on her family farm in nearby Galchutt. She graduated from Wahpeton High School and received her bachelor’s degree at North Dakota State University. After completing her schooling, she worked for two years at Northwestern Bell before deciding to stay at home to raise her children. During her time at home she worked as a home selling agent for “Happythings" and in 1983 was named the National Sales Manager of the Year. Later, she became a store manager for “Christmas on the Mall” at West Acres, maintaining this position from 1989 until 2000. In her leisure time, Sandy loved to spend time at her lake place on McDonald Lake near Dent, Minnesota where she loved her gardens, the water, bonfires, and spending time with family and friends.

Her proudest achievements are her four children and eight grandchildren: Jay (Sabina) Conzemius (Gennarino, Ethena and Domenic) of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania; Justin (Dina) Conzemius (Cade and Drew) of Deephaven, Minnesota; Kari O’Keeffe (Sam and John) of Fargo, North Dakota; and Luke (Sara) Conzemius (Kate) of Omaha, Nebraska. She was a devoted mother and dedicated her life to their happiness.

For the past 16 years, Sandy struggled with multiple sclerosis and learned to depend on numerous caregivers. While the changes brought on by MS were extremely challenging, she always maintained a positive attitude and strong faith. Sandy was “always on the go” and loved her time at Bible Study Fellowship and with “Happy Rollers.” This last year she was diagnosed with cancer, but continued to live life to its fullest. She served as an inspiration to countless others and will be remembered for her strong faith, love of family, and Herculean willpower.

Sandy is survived by children Jay, Justin, Kari and Luke; grandchildren Sam, Gennarino, Cade, Ethena, John, Drew, Domenic, and Kate; sister Carol (Tom) Galarneault of Delano, Minnesota; niece Julie (Steve) Merila (Cat and Ani); nephew John (Steph) Galarneault (Ben, Sam and Maria); aunt Darline Leland; and cousin Rebecca (Chris) Johnson.

She was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Ethel Leland and her sister Cathy Leland.

A memorial fund has been established in Sandy’s name with the Upper Midwest Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society