“I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4-7. Rick Sands (My VIP), 54, passed away after a long summer of many health challenges that he endured without complaint. “He learned to unite his sufferings with Christ sufferings for the sake of His body, the Church” Colossians 1:24.
He was born South Bend, Indiana on January 26, 1967, to Lee H. and Josephine (Digirolamo) Sands.
Rick was a humble and kind man who loved God, his wife, his family and was the happiest when serving others. He loved rides in the afternoon in his truck with his dog, Hunter, stopping by St. Michael Church for a quick prayer before coming home and doing something special for his wife.
He was a hall and room monitor at Plymouth High School. Rick was grateful for the gift of each day he was able to walk through the doors of the school.
He is survived by his wife, Mary, and daughter, Ashley; stepchildren: Jessica (Russ) Stephic, Chasity (Javi) Mendez and Timothy (Liz) Wagner; 5 grandchildren: Troy, Helina, Jay, Max and Nora; special niece and nephew, Lesley and Joey; brother, Dennis Hagye; his mother-in-law, Joyce Pierson and sisters-in-law, Kathy (Richard) Eichstedt and Barb Pierson; and special friend, Joanne.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Jo Tompsett.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 17, 2021, from 4-7 p.m. at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth. A Rosary will be recited at 4 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at St. Michael Church, 611 N. Center, Plymouth with Fr. Spenser St. Louis officiating.
Family burial will be held in the St. Michael Catholic Cemetery, Plymouth.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Michael Church, 612 N. Walnut Street, Plymouth.
Cindy Streich says
I am so very sorry to see this. Rick was one of my favorite students! He was always so kind. You have my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am sorry that I will not be able to attend since I will be in Arizona then.
Reggie Wolferman says
To Rick’s family I’m sorry for your loss. Especially to you Mary, thank you for taking such excellent care of Rick. ❤️
Kathy West says
So sorry for your loss! I didn’t have to be in Ricks presence too many times to know what a great guy he was! He did fight the good fight but the Lord had different plans for him . Rest In Peace Rick !
Kim Rodino Madison says
So sorry to hear about Rick😢Our hearts are broken for you Mary! We are praying for peace and understanding! Love you!
Joseph Klawiter says
At the Bestone Tire and Auto he was a wonderful individual to work with! He wanted to lift his truck and put some “Big-o-tires”, as he put it, on his truck!! The alignment was a struggle on that little truck he loved so!!! He was a pleasant and faithful person to deal with anytime he came through the door! Always put a smile on my face! Will be sadly missed and Always was cherished! God Bless those left and soon you bud when its my time!!!
An Old Irish Blessing:
May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Much sympathy & prayers,
The Bestone family
Julie Blissmer says
Love and hugs to the family. Rick lost his battle here on earth but will spread that beautiful smile across the heavens for all to remember.
Thankful for his friendship with my mom – Joan Servis
Love, Julie Blissmer
Chuck and Maria Buysse says
So very sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. May he find eternal peace and comfort in the arms of Jesus.
Sheree Wolfe says
Hi Mary and family, I never had the privilege to meet Rick, but I know he was and always will be your VIP Mary!! I am so glad I was able to play a small part in helping to bring so calm to Rick and you.
Rest In Peace Rick. Sending my love and thoughts.
Elnora Webb says
Sands Family, May you find comfort in God’s promise at Revelation 21:3:4. “God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:3,4)
Libby says
Mary and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss and that we became neighbors before I got to know Rick better. Rest In Peace now Rick, your suffering has ended.
I’m here if and when you need me Mary.
Prayers for strength as you overcome your sadness.
Lori Johnson says
We are so sorry for your loss. 😢 Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mary. Lori & Rob Johnson
Deanna and Loren Waggy says
Dear Mary, It was a privilege to know both you and Rick. We’re so sorry for this loss. He was a special person and we’re glad we could be a part of his journey over the past 10 years. Blessings to you and your family.