Sandra Elizabeth Lichtenwalter

Sandy Elizabeth Lichtenwalter, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of September 30, 2025. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Sandy was born on June 25, 1947, in Sioux City, Iowa, to the late Alton and Margaret (McCullough) Swanson. She graduated from Loretto Heights College in Denver, Colorado, with a degree in Mathematics and began her career in education

While in college, Sandy met the love of her life, Homer Lichtenwalter III. The two married on July 25, 1970, in Sioux City. As the devoted wife of a U.S. Air Force officer, Sandy embraced a life of travel, adventure, and service. During her children’s formative years, she dedicated herself to raising their three sons while actively volunteering at her children’s Catholic school and parish.

Sandy is survived by her beloved husband, Homer III, and their children: Homer Lichtenwalter IV, Christopher Lichtenwalter, and Brian Lichtenwalter, along with daughter-in-law Jalena Lichtenwalter and grandchildren Hannah, Kaitlyn, Madison, and Austin.

Sandy lived life with enthusiasm and a joyful heart. She found happiness in golf, needlepoint, gardening, playing the piano, and sharing her love of good food as a talented cook. A passionate educator, she took pride in her students’ accomplishments and encouraged a lifelong love of learning. She adored games of every kind—from Wordle and board games to her weekly bridge clubs—where she was known as a competitive and gracious player who cherished the camaraderie the game brought.

A devoted Catholic, Sandy found peace and purpose in her faith. She believed that the key to a good week was attending church, celebrating music, and singing with the choir.

Above all, Sandy’s greatest joy was family. She loved hosting gatherings filled with laughter, warmth, and connection. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, generous heart, welcoming spirit, and the bright light she shared with everyone who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Carmelite Monastery, 2901 South Ceclia, Sioux City, IA 51106. The Carmelites held a special place in Sandy’s heart, as they did for her mother, Margaret, and her Aunt Mitz, offering constant love and prayer throughout their lives.

Sandy will be laid to rest at the United States Air Force Academy Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colorado.