Sandra Reinertson, 74

Sept. 5, 1950 -

July 26, 2025

 

CRESCO - Sandra Faye (Stinson) Reinertson, born September 5, 1950, was a kind-hearted woman who lived her life with quiet strength, faith in Jesus, and a deep love for children. Before she was married, she spent many years joyfully caring for young children and often spoke fondly of the families she lived with and helped with their children.

After her marriage to Carmen Reinertson, she continued sharing her love with children through Sunday school and found great fulfillment serving alongside her husband in prison ministry and nursing home outreach. Sandra was deeply proud of Carmen’s calling as a preacher and cherished being part of a life devoted to ministering to others.

Sandra’s faith remained important to her throughout her life. For several years, she faced memory challenges — which made it especially meaningful when, in one of her final conversations, she could still recite her favorite verse from memory:

“They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” — Isaiah 40:31

Sandra faced many health challenges in her later years. After a surgery that left her unable to walk, doctors said she would likely never walk again—but with the loving help of her devoted husband, Carmen, she was able to walk a little bit again. Their relationship was marked by sacrificial love and dedication.

The past five years, Sandra had been at Friendship Haven Care Center in Fort Dodge, Iowa, where her husband Carmen was working so he could be with her. In her final days, Sandra faced a rapidly progressing cancer. Sandra passed away on July 26, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her parents Maynard and Ellen (Betts) Stinson. 

Survivors include her loving husband Carmen, siblings: Lynette (Mark) Dagley, Richard (Kim) Stinson and Clayton (DeeAnn) Stinson, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Sandra will be remembered for her gentle spirit, enduring faith, her joy in ministering to others, and love for children.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00am on Monday, August 18, 2025 at the Cresco Community Chapel, with visitation beginning at 9:30am.  Schmelzer Funeral Home is assisting the family.