Obituary of Sandra Jean Askew

Sandra J. Rady, age 78, of Van Buren Township, MI, passed away September 26, 2017 at her home. She was born February 22, 1939 in Detroit, MI, daughter of Frank and Genevieve (Tauck) Rady. Sandra moved to Belleville in 1951 and resided in her family home until her death. She graduated from Belleville High School in 1957. In 1999 she was recognized as a Distinguished Alumni. Sandra spent her life volunteering and touching the lives of others. Her service ranged from creating a school library, organizing the Alfa Romeo Owners Club national convention to serving on the board of directors for many non-profit organizations. She was a lifetime girl scout, serving as a leader and Council board member. She served hundreds through her leadership at the First United Methodist Food Closet. A self-taught artist she was an executive board member and presenting artist of the Ann Arbor Art Guild, a major contributor in the development of the Belleville Area Council for the Arts and self-employed artist selling over 2,000 pieces. She loved to plan a party, whether for seven of her closest friends, a gala to support a local charity or her beloved Christmas ornament party. She was the consummate hostess who left a legacy of leadership, kindness and caring. Her loves were her home on the lake, fast sport cars, her garden, her grandsons and the love of her life, Ken. Sandra is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Kenneth Askew, two daughters Ann Whitmer of Haslett, MI and Suzan (Philip) Burns of Phoenix, AZ, two grandsons, David (Erin) Burns and Alexander Whitmer; three brothers Gordon (Carmen) Rady, Dennis (Jenny) Rady and John (Linda) Rady and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents. Her final gift is the donation of her body to Michigan State University School of Anatomy. A memorial service will be held Friday, September 29th at 3p.m. at Belleville First United Methodist Church, 417 Charles Street, Belleville with Rev. Jim Walker officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Food Closet or St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ann Arbor Hospice. Please sign her on-line guest book and share a memory for the family to share.