Sandra Kay Van Alst, 78, of Des Moines, died at 2:45 a.m. September 14, 2025 at home.
She was born July 9, 1947 in Ottumwa to James Madison and Esther “Bunny” Viola Carter Shepherd. She married George G. Van Alst July 18, 1964.
A 1966 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Sandy had worked at K-Mart for a few years before staying home to raise her family.
Sandy enjoyed baking, playing games and camping. She loved country music but must importantly loved spending time with her family.
Surviving is her husband, George; their children, Mark (Kelly) Van Alst of Des Moines, and Lisa (Tony) VanderBeek of Carlisle; 5 grandchildren, Tyler (Mollie) Van Alst, Brad (Sarah) Van Alst, Kayla Van Alst, Trevor VanderBeek and Tanner VanderBeek; 2 great grandchildren, George and Ronan Van Alst; and a sister, Mildred “Sook” Rupe of Ottumwa.
She was preceded in death by her parents; 3 brothers, George, John, and Jim Shepherd; and 2 sisters, Bonnie Randall and Lillian Park.
Visitation will be open after 1 p.m. Tuesday September 16th at Reece Funeral Home with the family present to greet friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday September 17th at Reece Funeral Home with Charlie McMillian officiating.
Burial will be in Highland Cemetery in Eddyville.
