Sandra Lynn Hess

With heavy hearts, we remember Sandra “Sandy,” who joyfully met her end on July 27, 2025, at the age of 77.

Born in San Bernardino, California, on May 19, 1948, Sandy later moved to Arvada, Colorado, with her family—a transition that prepared her for life’s challenges and blessings. In 1966, when her parents relocated back to Colorado with her younger sisters, Sandy stayed behind in California. It was during that time she met the love of her life, Jack, whose companionship would shape her future.

Sandy dedicated more than 40 years of her life to the banking industry, passionately supporting community banks' growth and success. Not only did she expertly nurture clients, but she also invested deeply in training others—be it new employees or fellow bank personnel—and became a trusted mentor and resource, known for her steadfast determination and insight.

After Jack’s passing, Sandy demonstrated incredible strength—raising her young sons single-handedly, always putting their needs first and creating a loving, stable home for them.

An adrenaline enthusiast at heart, Sandy found solace and joy behind the wheel of her boat, aptly named “Sandy’s Choice.” Her weekends at Jackson Reservoir with her boys were filled with laughter, speed, and unforgettable memories that remain treasured to this day.

She lived for water sports, country concerts (Garth Brooks and Toby Keith held special places in her heart), and, above all, rooting for the Denver Broncos—orange was her signature color, and Game Day was her sacred ritual. She even traveled to stadiums beyond home turf, always with unwavering loyalty and spirit.

Sandy’s adoration for Elvis led her all the way to Graceland. She showered love on her four-legged companions too—from her beloved Bailey to sweet Missy, who walked by her side through thick and thin.

Becoming a great-grandmother brought Sandy a profound joy she had never imagined possible. When she learned both of her grandsons were expecting her great-grandchildren, she was "over the moon," proudly sharing tales of her title as great Grandma with anyone who would listen.

Above all, Sandy cherished her family—her sons, grandsons, and now great-grandsons—proudly embracing every new moment and memory with open arms.

Preceded in death by Jack Hess (husband), Jason Hess (son), Lola Agin (mother), Bernie Schneider (father), Cindy Koliba (sister), Marge Hess (mother-in-law), and William Hess (father-in-law).

Survived by Jim Hess (son), Carrie Peterson (daughter-in-law), James Hess (grandson), Karli Hess (granddaughter-in-law), Jett Hess (great-grandson), Jayden Hess (grandson), Kiera Hess, (granddaughter-in-law), Joryn Hess (great-grandson), Jack Hess (Grandson), Morgan Hess (Granddaughter), Kay Keating (sister), Jim Keating (brother-in-law), Christopher Keating (Nephew), and Kimberly Keating (Niece).

~

"The Dash”

Between the date when we arrive

and the date we go away,

there exists a horizontal line

that captures every single day.

And because these days we're living

seem to vanish in a flash,

we need to make the most of

that special little dash.

We are blessed with opportunities

as we tread the grounds of earth

to build the loving legacy

our own dash will be worth.

To focus on what matters,

not on things we’ve owned or bought,

and smile every chance we get,

and love with all we've got.

For the duties of our daily life --

the job, the house, the cash

affect the way we get to live

our only little dash.

So, appreciate the here and now

as each moment will unfold

because we're never told beforehand

how much time our dash will hold.

Don’t spend this time with worries,

bitterness and fear.

The future may be uncertain,

but right now, your dash is here.

If you need to make some changes,

let this be the day you start --

to make a difference with your life,

show the love that’s in your heart.

For how you spend this life

will someday be defined

by everything that is remembered

in the dash you leave behind.