Sandra "Sandy" Lynn Van Der Brink

Sandra “Sandy” Lynn Van Der Brink, 64, of Ireton, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on August 31, 2024, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. 

 A funeral for Sandy’s life will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Frist Reformed Church in Ireton with Rev. Gerald Norman officiating, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the incredible impact she had on their lives. Burial will follow the funeral at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, also at the church. The Porter Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to www.porterfuneralhomes.com. The funeral will be livestreamed on the church website at www.iretonfirstreformed.com. Sandra’s spirit will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be cherished. 

  Born on August 31st, 1960, in Sioux Center, IA to Dennis & Faye (Veltkamp) Medalen. She was united in marriage to Dave Van Der Brink on May 30th, 1979. They settled in Ireton, IA where they raised 5 children. Sandy dedicated her life to her family, her community, and her faith, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and compassion.

 Sandy was a woman of remarkable dedication and work ethic. She worked in production for Harkers and Pella before turning her attention to caring for others as an in-home daycare provider. She continued her service to the community as an paraeducator at West Sioux Elementary, an urgent care receptionist at the Hawarden Hospital, and taught CPR for American Heart Association. She served 23 years as an EMT with the Ireton Fire & Rescue where she provided care and comfort to those in need during critical moments. 

 Sandy was an active member of the First Reformed Church of Ireton, Iowa, where her faith was a guiding light in her life. She was deeply involved in the church community, offering her time and support to various activities and events.

 Family was the heart of Sandy’s world. Sandy was passionate about her role as a nanny, pouring her heart into her grandchildren’s lives and creating cherished memories with each of them. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dave Van Der Brink; her loving mother, Faye Medalen; her cherished children, Justin Van Der Brink, Felix & (Krystal) Van Der Brink, Josh & (Elizabeth) Van Der Brink, Devin & (Lisa) Van Der Brink, and Heidi & (Kirk) McInnis; and siblings, Doug & (Brenda) Medalen, Wanda & (Steve) Van Otterloo, Sonia & (Mark) Schemling, and Nicki Curry & (Chuck Shrider). She also leaves behind 12 beloved grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

 In addition to her love for her family, Sandy had a passion for cooking and baking, particularly cakes. Her kitchen was always filled with the aroma of homemade meals and sweet treats.

 Sandy will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering faith, and her selfless dedication to her family and community. Her warmth and generosity touched the lives of everyone she met, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.