George L. Sandstrom, 74, Burlington, died peacefully Dec. 1, 2016, at his home. He was born July 7, 1942, in Ashland, to the late Ted and Dorothy (Dewey) Sandstrom. He spent his early life in Bayfield County where he attended Drummond High School and later graduated from University of Wisconsin–Superior.
He became an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1964, receiving his Aviator Wings in 1966. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service flying helicopters in Vietnam.
On March 21, 1964, he married Patricia L. Ladwig. They had lived in Spring Prairie for the past 46 years. George was an airline pilot and served as the Chief Pilot for Northwest Airlines. He was also the Director of Aviation for the state of Wisconsin. In addition to flying, George farmed, raised livestock and had much pleasure raising Percheron horses. He was a member of Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, where he served on many boards, including being the association moderator for the UCC Church. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion and the Marine Corps League. He served the community as chairman of Burlington Memorial Hospital Board of Directors and was an active supporter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society in Cable, where he and Pat enjoyed a woodland cabin, near his boyhood home in Northern Wisconsin.
He owned a small gravel facility and forestry harvest and preservation effort. George and Pat were world travelers and also enjoyed visiting the National Parks. He was a member of Fred’s coffee group and enjoyed fine Scotch.
Survivors include his wife; children, Dr. Todd (Desiree) Sandstrom, Carmen (Garth) Brown; grandchildren, Brittany (Ben) Garcia, Adam Sandstrom, Mikayla Brown, Alex Sandstrom, Aubrey Brown; great-grandson, Jack Garcia; siblings, Sigurd (MaryAnn) Sandstrom, Carol (Bill) Buffie, Scottie (Cheryl) Sandstrom; sister-in-law, Judy Sandstrom.
He was further preceded in death by his brother, Dean Sandstrom, along with several horses.
The family suggests sending memorials to the Wounded Warrior Project, the National Marine Corp Museum, Plymouth Congregational Church or the MS Golf Benefit-Lakewoods Resort.
Services for George are Saturday, Dec. 17, at 1 p.m., at Plymouth Congregational Church. Visitation for family and friends will be at the church on Dec. 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Burial will be private. Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory, Burlington, is serving the family.
Well-wishers can visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
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