Obituary of Sandra Harder

Sandra Marie Harder of Lloydminster, AB., formerly of Calgary, AB passed away on Friday, May 2, 2014 at the age of 64 years. Sandra Marie Harder was born on November 20, 1949 in Kerrobert, Sask., to Edward (Ted) and Phyllis Park, the first of six daughters. She grew up on their farm, a place that held many memories for her. Sandra had many tales to tell about growing up in Kerrobert. She often shared stories about riding to school in the winter in a horse-drawn sleigh, going for a treat at the café in town, and participating in school activities and figure skating. Following high school, Sandra attended Reeve's Business College in North Battleford where she graduated with the highest marks in her class, not a surprise given her perfectionist personality. Shortly afterwards, she met Ron Harder, and they married in August 1969. In December 1970, they welcomed their first child, Michelle, followed by Danielle in March 1972. Always the adventurers, Sandra and Ron took a chance and moved to Williams Lake, B.C. in 1973. Within a year, they owned their first business and had their third child, Barton. Soon after they purchased a cabin at Big Lake, and within a few years and with memories of the farm in her mind, Sandra convinced Ron to make a permanent move there. Sandra was heavily involved in the local community, as the never-ending president of the Home and School Association, a school board trustee, and as a volunteer wherever she was needed. She also enjoyed many weekends of camping and fishing with her family. In 1983, she and Ron went on another adventure when they sold their business, packed up a motorhome, and took the kids on a three-month trip across Canada, all the way to Newfoundland and back. They went on to build and operate the Big Lake General Store and Restaurant. They sold this business a few years later and, eventually, Sandra and Ron parted but always remained friends and partners as parents to their children. More recently, Sandra lived in Lloydminster where her skills as a salesperson shone. Even while undergoing treatment for cancer, she continued to not only work but also set personal sales records. Sandra will be deeply missed by her children Michelle (Glenn), Danielle (Dave) and Bart; her nine grandchildren Tyler, Braden, Erika, Thomas, Jack, Peter, Brett, Alex and Keirnan; her sisters Eleanor (Stew), Ellen, Rona (Doug), Jan (Rick) and Cheryl (Randey); as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Your comfort and support for Sandra, especially over the last year, is greatly appreciated. A funeral service was held on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. from the Burgar Memorial Chapel (4817 51 Ave, Camrose, AB) with Rev. Bill Harder officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to The Cross Cancer Institute.