Sandra J. “Sandi” Crunkilton, age 65, of Marysville, died peacefully on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Riverside Methodist Hospital following complications from pancreatic cancer and chemotherapy.
On September 29, 1958, Sandi was born in Marysville, Ohio, the younger of two children of the late Claude C. and Arwilda (Estep) Kimbler. She graduated from Marysville High School in the class of 1977.
Around the time she graduated, Sandi caught the eye of Samuel P. “Sam” Crunkilton, while riding in her parent’s classic beige Buick Riviera. It was love at first sight as he remembers a beautiful girl slight of frame gracefully riding in such a huge car. He finally got his chance to meet the girl of his dreams when the two of them worked at Scotts Lawncare Company, and both quickly realized they were destined for each other. Sandi and Sam shared in every adventure of life together from that day forward. They were married on June 30, 1979, cherishing every day of their 44 years of marriage.
Following graduation, Sandi worked at Scotts Lawncare as an administrative assistant for five years until her three children came along: Eric, Carra, and Kevin. It was quickly apparent that motherhood was her true calling in life, so she left Scotts and dedicated herself completely to her family. She was a skilled cook and baker and perfected these talents with her mother Arwilda. She put her personality and flair into everything she made and would often make enough food to feed an army, ensuring her family would always have everything they needed. She especially loved hosting legendary Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for family, and even found the strength to host her final Christmas last year.
Willing to try anything once, Sandi lived to share adventures with her family. She started with disco dancing with Sam and supported him in getting his pilot’s license and flying for over 10 years. She loved roller skating with Sam and the kids, which led to supporting Eric as a speed skater. She loved the thrill of roller coasters and took many family trips to Kings Island and Cedar Point. She was an avid fan of heavy metal/rock music and attended several concerts with her children. She and Sam also cherished vacations together, most recently going to Siesta Keys of Florida(twice), and her favorite place in the world: Tucson, Arizona. Sandi thrived in warm weather, always dreaming of white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. In supporting Sam’s love for aviation, she even rode in a helicopter, even after realizing it lacked the protection of doors.
Having an enormous heart always worn on her sleeve, Sandi loved her animals almost as much as she loved her children and grandchildren (Julia, Luca, and Kayce). She loved dozens of cats over the years, and had the most spoiled pup, Carmella, as well as cats Princy and Mittens. She always enjoyed being on the move, and spent much of her time walking several miles a day with Carmella and Sam.
Sandi was put on this earth to be a wife, Mom, and Grandma. She would do anything for her family, always putting their needs above her own, even during great illness. She was sweet, kind and caring, never afraid to spoil her children and grandchildren. Behind her small stature and soft-spoken nature, you could find a feisty strong-willed woman, who was going to do anything she set her mind to.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband, Sam Crunkilton; three adored children: Eric (Ashley) Crunkilton, Carra (Kenny) Dunnavant, and Kevin Crunkilton, all of Marysville; three cherished grandchildren: Luca Crunkilton, Julia Makarova, and Kayce Dunnavant; a brother, Michael (Jan) Kimbler of Milford Center, niece Sarah Hagenbuch Of Springfield, nephew, Brian (Crystal)Kimbler, Byhalia; and several great nieces and nephews.
Family will greet friends from 4-7 pm on Friday, February 23, 2024, at Ingram Funeral Home, 975 N. Maple St., Marysville. Services honoring her life will also be held there at 11 am on Saturday, with Jeff Darby officiating. Burial will follow in Oakdale Cemetery in Marysville.
Memorial contributions may be made to support the love of her grandchildren via Trinity Lutheran Schools or support the love of her animals via the Union County Humane Society. Donations may be sent to the care of the funeral home.
Ingram Funeral Home is honored to serve Sandi’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.IngramFuneralService.com.