Sandra "Sandy" Smit

Sandra Rose (Barlund) Smit, 82, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, four months to the day after the passing of her beloved husband, Cornelius “Corny” Smit in Aberdeen, SD.

Private burial was held at the Wilmot Cemetery in Wilmot, SD. 

Sandy was born on September 9, 1942, to Otto and Mae Barlund in Wilmot, SD, where she and her three sisters grew up.

Her love of books, reading to children, and living on the lake was matched only by her deep devotion and fierce loyalty to her husband, Cornelius, with whom she shared an extraordinary bond of over six decades.

Living a life anchored in family, Sandy was a steadfast protector and advocate for her children and their families, always ensuring her daughter and son knew the strength of her support. Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren and great-grandsons, whom she adored and cherished deeply.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cornelius; their two infant daughters; her parents: Otto and Marion (Mae) Barlund; her oldest sister, Beverly (Barlund) Palmer; her brothers-in-law: Richard Palmer; Roger Tigert; and Leo Ackerman.

Sandy leaves behind her loving family who will miss her nurturing spirit and unwavering love and kindness.

Cards and condolences may be sent to the family at 2204 16th Ave. SE, Aberdeen, SD 57401.