Memorial

Sandra L. Vaughan, 61, passed away unexpectedly on May 7, 2026, while visiting her home state of Michigan.  A visitation will take place 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the Chapel Stateroom at Cedar Memorial, 4200 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids.  A service will follow at 11:00 a.m.  in the Chapel of Memories at the same location.  A private family burial will follow.

Sandra was born January 20, 1965 in Flint Michigan to William and Janet Vaughan.  She graduated from Flushing High School in 1983 and went on to get her Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Western Michigan University in 1987 and Master’s Degree, also in Business Administration, from Aquinas College in 1990.  Sandra built a respectable 40-career in banking, starting as a teller and rising to senior level positions.  She was known for her knowledge, professionalism and her keen eye for risk management.

Sandra married Noel Kurt July 22, 2023 and they enjoyed many adventures including day trips, musicals and plays, the symphony, hiking, tandem biking, canoeing and even multiple Chicago Bear’s Football games. Her saying was “Together is my favorite place to be”.  Sandra enjoyed the large Kurt family gatherings as well as spending time with her children by marriage. She adored the grandchildren and loved both interacting with and just watching them learn and grow.

Sandra was a champion for animals, volunteering at shelters, being on the board at Cedar Valley Humane Society and even running a pet rescue while in living in Michigan.  Sandra fostered and adopted many cats and dogs, indicating she just wanted them to have a better life.  Personally, she enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, reading, working outdoors and relaxing with a good television series.  She was known for her kindness, planning abilities and enjoyment of good humor.

Sandra is survived by her loving husband, Noel C. Kurt, her mother Janet Vaughan of Grand Haven, Michigan,   sister Debora Vaughan of Elk River, Minnesota, three nieces and her children and grandchildren by marriage: Christopher (AJ) of Independence, Kansas, Adam (Katie) and Ryan (Melanie) of Des Moines, Zachary (Emilee) of Manhattan, Kansas, Elizabeth of Richmond, Virginia and five grandchildren by marriage and Noel’s extensive family.  She was preceded in death by her father William Vaughan.    

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sandra’s name to Theater Cedar Rapids or Cedar Rapids Animal Care and Control.