Sandra “Sandy” Stewart Thorpe, 76, of Vero Beach, passed away on March 16, 2015, at her home after a courageous battle with ALS.
She is survived by her son David L. Thorpe, Jr. (Miranda) of Seattle, Wash.; her daughter Susan Potz of Southbury, Conn.; four grandchildren; and her sister-in-law Pat Haydu (Richard) of Vero Beach.
She was predeceased by her husband Dave last year after a long battle with prostate cancer.
Thorpe was born in Bridgeport, Conn., where she attended Roger Ludlowe High School followed by Bay Path College in Long Meadow, Mass., where she earned her Associate’s Degree.
Upon graduation, she worked for a radio station in New York City, marrying her high school sweetheart Dave Thorpe shortly thereafter.
For more than 54 years, she and Dave enjoyed a very rich and active life, much of it spent in their home state of Connecticut. The couple moved as Dave’s career required, including a two year assignment with the family in Geneva, Switzerland.
During their time in Conn., the Thorpe’s were active members of the Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club in Westport. With many close friends, Sandy and Dave enjoyed fishing and cruising, making multiple trips along the Atlantic coast from Maine to the Bahamas with Dave at the helm and Sandy as first mate navigating the way.
In 1999 the Thorpe’s retired to Vero Beach, and for the past 16 years they both enjoyed golf and travel with family and friends, including trips from Alaska to the eastern Mediterranean. She also enjoyed an active social life including the occasional round of bridge.
Thorpe also regularly attended the Community Church in Vero Beach and her wonderful spirit, genuine smile, and sincere interest in others was always present.
A Celebration of Life will be held with close friends and family. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the ALS Association in memory of Sandra Stewart Thorpe.
Strunk Funeral Home of Vero Beach is entrusted with arrangements.
