Rosalene Easter Sands

Rosalene “Rose” Easter Bartel Sands, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Sperry, Oklahoma, on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the age of 97. Rose was born on April 10, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Ferd and Edna Bartel. Her life was an enduring source of inspiration and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Rose spent her early school years at Cox School in Dover, Missouri, before moving with her family to Saline County near Mt. Leonard. In 1943, her family relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, where she completed her education at Central High School. On October 11, 1944, Rose married the love of her life, Robert “Sandy” Sands of Lancaster, Ohio. The couple shared 53 devoted years of marriage before Sandy’s passing in 1998. Their love story began when they met during one of Sandy’s weekend passes en route to March Field Air Force Base in California during WWII. After the war, they settled in the Nashua community of Clay County, Missouri, where they raised their three children. Rose’s compassionate nature was evident during her time working in the Nashua school cafeteria, where she became affectionately known as the “school mother.” She was a second mother, aunt, grandmother, and confidant to many. To know her was to love her. A devoted homemaker, Rose took great pride in creating a warm and welcoming home filled with love, laughter, and the delicious aroma of her signature meals and baked treats. Her kitchen was a haven, her garden a testament to her nurturing spirit, and her crocheted gifts cherished by all who received them. Rose’s love of music was a hallmark of her life, and her grandchildren fondly remember her singing, “I love you, a bushel and a peck.” Her wisdom, advice, and comforting presence were sought after by friends and family alike, making her home a gathering place for heartfelt conversations. Even in her later years, Rose embraced technology, keeping in touch with her many loved ones through Facebook and her iPad. Her messages were a source of joy and connection for all. Rose is preceded in death by her husband Sandy, her mother Edna Bartel, her father Ferd Bartel, brothers Everett, Dewey, and Warren Bartel, and sister Laverne Ridder. Rose's legacy continues through those she leaves behind; she is survived by her three children: Rod (Cindy) Sands, Randy Sands, and Rhonda Wright (Steve). Her seven grandchildren: Shannon (Dave) Wilson, Ryan (Jodi) Sands, Starla (Brian) Yarborough, Stacy (Matt) Nolker, Robert Wright (Leslie Antrobus), Elisa Bennett, and Joseph (Mindy) Wright. Her eleven great-grandchildren: Connor Wilson, Riley and Jack Sands, Emerson, Preston, and Kerington Yarborough, Trigg Nolker, Kevin (Kaylee) Wright, McKenna Wright, Beau, and Rhett Bennett. She is also survived by her sister, Roberta Cohalla. Her much loved nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family and dear friends. A memorial service to celebrate Rose’s remarkable life will be held on Sunday, May 25, 2025, with more information to come. Rose’s life was a tapestry of love and care. She never met a stranger and was friendly to everyone. She touched many lives with her generosity and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we also celebrate the enduring impact she made on everyone in her life. Rose's love and lessons will continue to guide us, and her memory will be a beacon of joy and resilience. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure; she is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure

Tributes

Rosalene Easter Sands

April 10, 1927 - January 17, 2025