Sandy (Mascher) Gravenhorst (80) of Effingham

On Monday, July 19, 2021, Sandy (Mascher) Gravenhorst transitioned into her new life with Jesus on eagles’ wings.

Sandy was born on March 22, 1941 in Dieterich, Illinois, the daughter of Ernest and Mae Mascher. Sandy graduated from Dieterich High School and Eastern Illinois University. She was a lifelong resident of Effingham and a member of the Centenary United Methodist Church. When unable to attend church service she enjoyed watching sermons of Charles Stanley and David Jeremiah. She was a teacher in Teutopolis and Effingham, owner and operator of the Cobbler Shoe Store, and caretaker at the Saint Anthony Memorial Hospital. She was also a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority, Panhellenic Association and Chapter FA of P.E.O. Her greatest devotion was to her children and showering her grandchildren and great grandchildren with an abundance of love. Her love for them is her legacy. Sandy had a genuine heart for people and took an authentic interest in them. She had many friendships and each was truly special. Her love changed lives in the best possible way. She enjoyed shopping, board games and her card groups, especially bridge, hand and foot, and sequence. This was just another way for her to bring family and friends together. Without a doubt she retired as the all-time champion. Her grandson expressed it best: if she were a card, she would be the Queen of Hearts. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

Sandy will be greatly missed and survived by her children: Ted Gravenhorst (wife Edna), Barry Gravenhorst (wife Tajuana), and Lisa Schuette (husband Todd); grandchildren: Emily Abendroth (husband Derek), Natasha Deig (husband Eric), Molly Vogt (husband Dustin), Jacob Schuette (fiancée Claire), Madison Schuette, Morgan Schuette, James Schuette and Alexander Gravenhorst; great-grandchildren: Wesley Walker, Charlotte Deig, Jacqueline Vogt, Caroline Vogt, and Parker Abendroth; and sister, Erna Mae Hall (husband Leonard).

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents Ernest Mascher, Mae Mascher and niece Nancy Trett.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 23, 2021 at Centenary United Methodist Church in Effingham, IL. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Effingham. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the church. Arrangements are in the care of Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL.