Sandra K. Maikoski

A LIFE FILLED WITH WONDER and AWE: Sandra Kay Maikoski

Sandra Kay (Wolfe) Maikoski left this earthly plane June 6, 2026 encircled by her family in Spring Hill, Florida. She was born May 15, 1947, in Battle Creek, Michigan and raised in Coldwater, Michigan. Her childhood there was spent climbing trees, playing with her dogs, keeping up with the boys on the baseball field, and winning at marbles.

She went from small town to college town in Kalamazoo, Michigan, attending Western Michigan University where she earned degrees in Elementary Education and Music. Even more meaningful was meeting the love of her life, Chester Ben Maikoski III, in the french horn section which crescendoed from two notes to a symphony of 10 children. They were married 56 years ago for all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple.

Her life was anchored in Jesus Christ and her family. She was called “mother” by many, embracing all exactly as they were and authentically caring without conditions. While in her presence, you couldn’t help but feel like you were the most important person in the room. You couldn't meet her without being given a hug. The home she cultivated was open to all to break bread, lay your head, or bend a listening ear. Truly, “love [was] spoken here.”

To Sandy, magic was hidden in ordinary things. She had the uncanny ability to highlight that wonder in whimsical ways. Simple acts like journaling and doing genealogy became lifelong passion projects. She made words come alive whether it be read, written, spoken, or sung. With these talents she was able to transform everyday moments into ones of teachable connections. A lifelong learner herself, she was most at home being barefoot, gardening, collecting earth treasures, and feeling the wind. Each of God’s creations was held in awe and adoration.

She had the ability to find joy in any situation. Even as her body deteriorated, her soul still shined through. As the pathway to express from her brain to lips declined, she never lost an opportunity to laugh at the absurdity of it all or to make you feel her abiding love. Her unwavering faith kept her light shining until her last breath. Transitioned into spirit form, her love and legacy will ripple through eternity. We feel the sun from both sides now.

She was welcomed into Heaven by her cherished daughter, Mindi Jane Maikoski, along with other beloved family members and friends who passed before her.

She is survived by her husband Chester Ben Maikoski III and her children: Marc (Joice) Maikoski, Ami (Jared) Maikoski, Shaeli (Dennis) Kersee, Abbie (Alunda) Hopkins Maikoski, Kaiti (Pat) Maikoski, Chip (Janice) Maikoski, Kristi (Dylan) Klinesteker, Joshua (Natalie) Maikoski, and Chelsea Maikoski. She is also survived by her sister, Janice McCarthy, thirty-three grandchildren, and eighteen great grandchildren.

JOIN US FOR CELEBRATION OF LIFE

FOR MICHIGAN FAMILY:

Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 10:00 AM 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

1112 N Drake Rd. Kalamazoo, MI 49006

FOR FLORIDA FAMILY:

DATE AND TIME TBA

PLEASE VISIT HER FB LEGACY PAGE TO SHARE MEMORIES, PHOTOS AND STORIES with invitation for timeless celebration and return.