Sandra S. Simmons

Sandra S. Simmons, age 67, of Millcreek Twp., lost her 7 year battle with breast cancer on Saturday, January 2, 2010. She died peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family.

Sandy was born in Grand Rapids, MI, the daughter of the late Campbell and Mame Steketee. Sandy had been an Erie resident for nearly 40 years and was an active community volunteer serving as the American Association of University Women "Pressible" Editor and later President of the Erie Chapter. Sandy was instrumental in starting the first Return/Recycling location in Erie and was an original board member of Habitat for Humanity in Erie. She also volunteered with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate).

Sandy had a love of the outdoors and enjoyed many activities including tennis, golf and nature. She also enjoyed crafts with beach glass and pottery, as well as stained-glass and arts of all kind. Sandy was also an award winning photographer. She was a member of the Church of the Cross, was the owner of PIP Printing for many years and co-owned the tennis shop of Westwood Tennis Club.

Sandy is survived by three children: Michelle Eger (Steven) of Sewickley, PA, Scott Simons (Jennifer) of Lititz, PA, Bryan Simmons of Franconia, New Hampshire; two sisters: Mary MacDonald of Clifton Park, NY, Penny Sidor (Michael) of Rolling Meadows, IL; three brothers: Campbell Steketee (Miriam) of Salem, OR, Fred Steketee (Deborah) of Alto, MI, Steve Steketee of Indian Valley, ID; and her companion of 15 years, Christopher Chaffee and his children: Stephanie Andrews, Heather Karki, and January Pasquantonio. Sandy is also survived by nine beloved grandchildren: Jacob, Ella, Sierra, Logan, Jack, Allie, Kush, Anika, and C.J.

Friends will be received at the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd on Saturday, January 9, 2010 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A celebration of life will be scheduled for a date this summer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Susan B. Komen for the Cure, Attn: Donor Services, PO Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309, or to the John Kanzius Research Foundation, 1001 State St., Erie, PA 16501.

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