Service Information
Sandra Kay "Ma" Boecker, age 82, of Arlington, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at St. Brendan Catholic Church in Green Isle, Minnesota at 10 A.M. Luncheon and fellowship in honor of "Ma" to follow the service.
Sandi will eventually be laid to rest alongside her loving husband, Bill, at Saint Brendan Catholic Cemetery in Green Isle, Minnesota.
In lieu of flowers, Sandi would appreciate donations to cancer research.
Obituary
"She never asked for much but gave a lot."
Sandra Kay Boecker, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on May 24, 2023. Born on January 25, 1941, in New Richmond, Wisconsin, to Ernest and Gladys (LaMere) Carlquist. Sandi's life was marked by love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family.
Sandi's early years were spent in St. Paul, where she attended Saint Columba Catholic grade school and Saint Joseph Academy High School. On July 28, 1962, she married the love of her life, William H. Boecker, at St. Columba Catholic Church. Together, they were blessed with six boys and settled on a hobby farm in rural Chaska, Minnesota, where they raised their children.
A devoted mother, Sandi played a crucial role in her sons' lives. She made sure they were actively involved in Boy Scouting, serving as their den mother for many years. Her husband, Bill, continued the Scouting effort until all six boys achieved the highest rank of Eagle Scout, a remarkable achievement recognized in the Minneapolis Star Tribune newspaper with an article and photo highlighting their success.
Sandi was known as "Ma Boecker" or simply "Ma" by many of the kids who attended Chaska schools alongside her sons. This endearing nickname stemmed from her job at the Chaska McDonald's, where she patrolled the lunchtime rush of Chaska School students, including her own boys. The name "Ma" stuck, a testament to the warmth and care she extended not only to her own children but to the community.
Beyond her involvement in Scouting and her role at McDonald's, Sandi had a passion for treasure hunting. She loved visiting garage sales, junk stores, and antique shops, always on the lookout for those special items. She formed a close friendship with Linda H., who owned an antique business in Chaska, and they would venture out together, exploring the countryside in search of hidden gems. Sandi continued her buying and selling adventures after she and Bill relocated to Arlington after 43 years in Chaska. She formed another cherished friendship with Betty V., who owned a shop in Arlington.
In her leisure time, Sandi enjoyed occasional trips to Jackpot Casino with her dear friend Mary T. These trips were not about the gambling but rather the companionship and conversations they shared during the journey.
Sandi's love for her granddaughters and grandchildren knew no bounds. She kept a supply of gifts in "her room" to ensure she always had something special for them. Additionally, Sandi actively participated in hosting garage sales in Arlington and joined her sons for large-scale sales in Chanhassen every spring and fall. She also contributed to fundraisers by donating items to Saint Mary's Church and various civic organizations.
Sandi is survived by her:
devoted husband of 60 years, William (Bill),
their six sons and their partners, William (Maria), David (Bobbi), Douglas (Mary), Mark (Rhonda), Robert (Christin), Thomas (Tiffany).
She leaves behind a legacy of love in her 15 grandchildren, Ashley (Logan), Larissa (Luke), William (Ashley), Tatiana (Lucas), Calvin (Jeana), Elise (Josh), Bethany (Kenny), Noah (Aliana), Jesse (Bridget), Katie (Trevor), Jamie (Landon), Amber (Brian), Grayson, Timothy (Amy), Kendra (Corey);
10 great-grandchildren, Liam, Charlie, Noah, William, Wade, Zavier, Theodore, Eiley, Fia, Rylee.
"She never asked for much but gave a lot."
The family would like to express their gratitude to Ridgeview Hospice for their exceptional hospice care.
Barbara Schweitzer Pattin says
Holding your family in my heart during this difficult time. Love never fades because we always remember.
Melissa Kahn says
What a wonderful tribute. She was an amazing woman.
Very much like my Mom! She too has 6 kids- 5 girls and a boy. We always joked if Mom would have had 6 girls we could have all matched up. :))
All of my love and prayers go out to the Boecker Family. You are such an amazing family!! Your Mom had a lot to do with that!!
Carry her love in your hearts.
Much love always,
Melissa “ Huntsberry” Kahn
Jean Peacock says
My deepest sympathy Bill in the passing of Sandi. She will be missed. We missed seeing you at our 65th HSReunion. May eternal rest grant unto Sandi and let perpetual light shine upon her. Jean Peacock
Celia Lais says
Our Sympathy to Bill n all the Families…..Loved that Lady, Sandy! We won’t be able to come to the funeral. This is the week that Tom goes fishing to Sioux Dakota w a group of guys, they have gone for years around Father’s Day. I will have a Mass said for Sandy at our Church.If you can send a copy of the funeral card I would love that! Celia Lais 15477 1st st Chandler, mn 16122. Thank you so much! Sending Prayers!
Jim & Faye Spartz says
Bill & Family
Our sincerest condolences on the loss of your spouse, mother and grandmother. We know that you will miss her greatly. Bill, it’s been a long time since we have seen each other but we do think of you often and remember the good old times in high school and college. Our love and best wishes to you and your family in this difficult time.
Monica Kraus Oldenburg says
My deepest sympathy to Bill and Boys. Wish I could make it Ma’s celebration of life, however I’m not able to. Big hugs to the Boecker boys and their families. She’ll be missed. RIP Sandi.
Leah (Harms) Murphy says
My condolences to the entire Boecker family.
Luzie and Winfried Boecker (Böcker), Karlsruhe Germany says
Dear Bill and family,
it was an experience we can never forget in our lives to meet Sandra and you and the family in Minnesota in 2005. We are saddened to learn of Sandra’s passing and send our hearfelt condoences for her loss.
Peter Ries says
Doug and family – I met Ma just a couple times and what I remember most was the twinkle in her eyes that I see in every Boecker son. Peace to her and your family as you grieve her passing.