Surrounded by her family, Sandra Jean Mellen, 79, of Freeport, went peacefully to her eternal home in Heaven on Tuesday, May 10, 2022. Sandy was born March 16, 1943, in Freeport, Illinois to Jeanette K (Morrison) Munz and Russell A Munz. She married the love of her life, Merle L Mellen on March 18, 1961. They were married nearly 57 years when Merle passed away on Feb. 25, 2017. Sandy and Merle loved the life they shared, their peaceful country home and their family. They provided a safe, stable and loving home for their children, Daniel and Jessica.

Quietly and steadfastly, Sandy, served the Lord, her family, friends, and community. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, canning, sewing, and reading. She especially loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In addition to managing her home, she also worked outside the home. In time, she retired from Union Savings Bank and helped care for her mother. Sandy was a life-long learner and earned a degree from Highland Community College. She liked the challenge of puzzles, games, and ever-changing technology. By embracing technology, she was able to play games on her iPad and stay connected to her grandchildren. Even her youngest great-grandchildren looked forward to Facetiming with Grandma.

In the past two years, she shared many warm memories and stories of her own life, the lives of her beloved mother, maternal grandmother, and other family members. She was pleased these memories were being recorded for the loved ones she would leave behind.

Sandy was a friendly, outgoing, and beautiful woman, but she was also very private. However, it was   her wish to share the following: "I've enjoyed serving the Lord and my family. It was my purpose in life. I thank the Lord for His unconditional love for me."

She sacrificed so very much for her family. She is loved, cherished, and will be missed beyond words.   We thank God for her life, her example and her love.

Surviving are her two children: Daniel (Shari Schmitt) Mellen of Haskins, Ohio, and Jessica (James) Polsean of Pecatonica. Grandchildren: Ross (Ashley) Mellen, Katelin (Peter) Rische, Paige (Kameron Marcum) Mellen, Cory (Kaylie) Polsean and Brooke Mellen. Great-Grandchildren: Lillie, Heidi, Ellie, Simon and Mason Rische; Charlotte and Kenna Polsean. A brother, Don (Karen) Munz and sister, Kathy (Ellis) Atherton along with many nieces and nephews.

Sandy was preceded in death by her husband and parents.

The family would like to thank her wonderful caregiver as well as her many dear friends. Her life was enriched by the love, care and friendships shared. Our mother cherished your visits, homemade meals, and Game Day fun. God bless you all.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 9 at 11:00 A.M at Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd in Freeport. Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M.

Cremation rites have been accorded. In a private ceremony, the family will lay their parents to rest at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.