Sandra Charlene Bjerke

December 15, 1953 - January 17, 2022

Sandra (Sandy) Charlene Bjerke (Day) of Edina, MN passed away peacefully surrounded by family in her home on January 17th, 2022 at the age of 68 after a two-year battle with cancer. She fought courageously, overcoming long odds in order to spend time and make memories with those that she loved. Born the oldest of seven in the small West Virginia town of Welch, her military family moved several times before eventually settling in Columbus, OH. It was there that Sandy graduated from Ohio State University and managed a local Steak and Ale restaurant. This job would eventually bring her to Minnesota, where she would transition her career to sales, spending 32 years with Anchor Paper in St. Paul. In sales, Sandy's instincts, thoughtfulness, and success earned her a reputation as one of the best in the business, leading to life-long relationships with both colleagues and customers. It was also sales that introduced Sandy to the love of her life, Lee Bjerke. They married in 1986, and together built a loving family with their two sons. Their life was filled with friends, music, amazing food, road trips, golf vacations, family ski trips, cruises, card nights, and most of all...love. Sandy and Lee called Scottsdale, AZ their second home, spending many days and nights on the greatest patio in the world, always close to those they loved. And, when she became a grandmother, Sandy couldn't wait to shower her grandkids with love, affection, food, toys, and pretty dresses. Preceded in death by her parents, Buck and Ruth, her sister, Ann, and her brother, Lloyd. Sandy is survived by her husband, Lee, her two sons, Eric and Adam (Annie), her two grandchildren, Virginia and Alester, her siblings Henry, Sue, Barry, and Ryan, as well as many nieces, nephews, and close friends. Those that knew her will forever remember her infectious laugh, overwhelming generosity, intelligence, resolve, one-of-a-kind style, and exceptional Thanksgiving dinners. Her family will be hosting a memorial gathering Saturday, February 5th, 2022 from 2-4pm at the Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel (located at West 50th Street & Highway 100 and available at 952-920-3996 or www.washburn-mcreavy.com).