Sandra Polzin
Sandra “Sandy” Renee Polzin, 75, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, surrounded by the family she cherished and loved deeply. A celebration of her life will be held on January 11, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Calvary Chapel Church, 4901 E 26th St, Sioux Falls, SD.
Sandy was born on May 20, 1949, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Genevieve (Adams) and Donald Carpenter. She was the third oldest of 10 children and the eldest daughter. In such a large family, Sandy naturally stepped into a motherly role early in her life, caring for her siblings with a sense of responsibility and love that became a cornerstone of her character.
She graduated from Washington High School in 1967 and married Les Noonan in 1969. Together, they had four children who became the light of her life. Later, Sandy married Steve Polzin, who brought two more children into her family circle, Stewart and Seri.
Sandy’s career path was a reflection of her tenacity and desire to follow her passions. She began as a bookkeeper at A.M.M.I. but decided later in life to pursue a long-held dream. She enrolled in Stewart’s School of Cosmetology, where she found her calling in the beauty industry. After graduating, she worked at Stewart’s Salons, JC Penney Salon, and Great Clips, eventually returning to Stewart’s School of Cosmetology, where she became known as “Miss Polzin.”
As an instructor, Sandy shaped the lives of countless students who often called her their favorite teacher. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, as she stayed connected with her fellow instructors and former students, building lifelong friendships and cherished memories.
Sandy’s true joy was her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she poured her heart into being “Mama” and “Nana” to all of them. Every Christmas, her family eagerly awaited the handmade gifts she had spent the year creating, each item a reflection of her love and thoughtfulness. These treasures will be cherished for years to come.
She also shared a special bond with her siblings, particularly her sisters, with whom she spent countless hours crafting, attending events, and planning the annual Carpenter family reunion. Whether sewing, crafting, or laughing together, these moments brought her immense happiness.
Sandy loved mystery novels, true crime books, and indulging in her favorite TV show, Court TV. These hobbies reflected her curious nature and love for a good story.
Sandy leaves behind a legacy of love through her children: Tracy Munce (Jeff), Sarah Dlugosh (Levi Hillmer), Kathleen Puttmann (Brandon), and Michael Noonan (Rachel); her grandchildren: Tessa (Nathan), Sammie (Dylan), KaSandra (Ethan), Kimberly, Madelynn, Raylee, Alexander, Braedon, Jenna, Jade, Jovie, Samara (Matt), Brixton, and Blayze; and her great-grandchildren: Theodore, Broderick, and Oliver.
Her love and memory will also be deeply missed by her extended family and friends, including her beloved siblings: Cheryl (Gary) Strang, Karla (Dave) Newman, Kim (Tom) Green, and Rodney (Jane) Carpenter; her sisters-in-law Jan (Sylvan) Sullivan who was also her best friend of 63 years, and Linda (Ronald) Carpenter; her brothers-in-law Bruce (Pamela) McDowell and Jim (Candace) Newman; and her many nieces and nephews.
Sandy is preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, her siblings Sylvan, Ronald, Debbie, Pamela, and Candice, and two nephews.
“A mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take.”
Rest peacefully, Mama. We love you always.