Sandra (Knutson) Vangen

Sandra (Knutson) Vangen, 84, of Vadnais Heights, MN, died on Thursday, July 23, 2026. Sandra was born on July 17, 1942 in Fergus Falls, MN to Doris and Lester Knutson.

Sandra grew up in St. Paul, graduated from Bloomington High School and became a secretary. She was introduced to the love of her life, Kenneth, by a cousin. She and Kenneth were married in 1965 and they moved to a farm near Ellendale, Minnesota, where they raised their three children- Shaun, Drew, and Tira.

Sandra's many hobbies included gardening, canning, painting, quilting, extensive travel, card playing, and a love of music and movies. She was also an animal lover and had many beloved pets over the years.

Sandra is survived by her children, Shaun (Clay) Steffen Hocking, Drew (Anna) Vangen, Tira (Sam) Smith; her sister, Rosalie (Richard) Holmes; brother, Leslie (Beth) Hunter; grandsons, Justin (Molly) Steffen, Finn (Kenzie) Steffen, Andy (Brett) Beaudry, Brecstan Beaudry; granddaughter, Brandalyn (John) Marquard; and great-grandchildren, John & Waylon Steffen, Taylor Hocking, Keeghan, Waylan, Rivvan, Gydian, and Ayekan Marquard; many friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews; along with her lifelong friend, Alice Alsen, and her "hand and foot" card playing friend, Pete Koegel. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Vangen; her parents, Lester & Doris Knutson; and her son-in-law, John Steffen.

Many thanks to the caring staff at Gable Pines for your support & care of our mom over the years. In addition, thank you to Sheriff Chi Lee for your kind and compassionate help at this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in Sandra's memory.