She was born on August 14, 1940, in Ogden, Utah, to loving parents Ernest H. and Olea Norseth. She graduated from Weber High School in 1958.

Sandra married Gary Christensen in 1959. They later divorced. She married Nayland West in 1972. They were inseparable and happily married until his passing in 1999. They enjoyed over 30 wonderful years vacationing/cruising, waterskiing, frequenting their favorite restaurants, working in their yard, and enjoying their beloved pets. She was very dedicated to and took great care of Nayland throughout his 4-year battle with kidney cancer.

Sandra worked for the Internal Revenue Service for several years, eventually retiring in 2000. She had many dear friends that she kept in touch with for years after her retirement, even joining some of them in the Red Hat Society. They enjoyed numerous fun outings wearing their various red hats and turning eyes wherever they went. Her grandchildren loved to try on her red hats whenever they got the chance.

She loved to attend any and all of her grandchildren’s events. You could find her applauding at a dance or music recital or cheering at a sports game whenever she got the chance.

Sandra spent much of her free time working in her yard. She always had one of the most pristine yards with meticulous beds full of gorgeous blossoms. She took great pride in her yard. She also adored her beloved animals. She had many dogs and birds through the years and was an animal lover until her last day. Her constant companion, Gracie, was the love of her life. She received many years of comfort in her last years from her sweet Gracie.

Sandra will be missed by many who knew and loved her. She left an indelible imprint on all who knew her. Sandra is survived by four loving children, Lori (Scott) Butler, Todd (Leann) Christensen, Rick (Anita) Christensen, and Janae (Chris) Wirick. Also surviving are her nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Nayland; her daughter, Julie Gandee; her parents; her sister, Carol Southworth; and her dear friend, Gilbert Martinez.

Friends may visit with family on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. A family graveside service will be held at Lindquist’s Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd.

A special thank you to Visiting Angels, Atlas Hospice, and Petersen Farms Assisted Living for the exceptional care that was given to Sandra in her final days.

Condolences may be shared at: www.lindquistmortuary.com.