Sandra Straehl

On October 5, 2024, the universe lost a star when Sandra Straehl passed away peacefully in her Sedona, Arizona home. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1947 to Bill and Louise Straehl, who taught her the importance of hard work and high standards, Sandy attended Milwaukee schools before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Although she grew up in the big city, some of Sandy's fondest childhood memories were of visits to her grandparent's farm near Poy Sippi, Wisconsin. Following college, Sandy taught school in Austin, Texas before moving to Washington State and then Montana. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Sciences from Montana State University, Sandy embarked on a distinguished career in public service.

Beginning as a temporary highway field worker, through hard work and determination Sandy eventually became Administrator of the Montana Department of Transportation's Transportation Planning Division. In addition to her duties as administrator, Sandy was also a nationally and internationally respected expert in transportation planning and policy and a tireless advocate for rural transportation needs. Always a seeker of knowledge, Sandy also earned a Master of Arts in Public Policy from George Mason University while working full-time.

Although she received many state and national awards for her work, one of Sandy's proudest accomplishments was the mentoring of young staff people who benefited from her guidance and encouragement.

Following retirement Sandy embraced the Sedona lifestyle and loved to host guests in her light and art-filled home. Sandy is survived by her husband Dick, brother Greg, nephew Eric, and numerous other relatives and friends including the many close friends she made among her national transportation counterparts. Those fortunate to know Sandy will remember her for her intelligence, curiosity, humor, and fierce determination to live a full and productive life in spite of her courageous 30-year battle with a rare cancer. Most of all, she will be remembered for her incredible spirit and her generosity to family and friends.

No services are planned.