Obituary of Sandra Alta (McCombs) Dalenberg

Sandra Alta (McCombs) Dalenberg, 76, of Niles, passed away on Tuesday, January 15, 2019, ofcomplications from Pneumonia.

Sandra was born on November 19, 1942, in Niles, Michigan, as the youngest of seven children born to the late Samuel J. and Cecile K. (Kizer) McCombs Jr.

Affectionately known as Sandy, she graduated from Niles High School in 1961.  She took college classes throughout her life in every state she lived in.  She married the love of her life, Dennis D. Dalenberg on September 22, 1962, at the Bertrand Bible Church in Niles. She was a devoted mother and career military wife.  Sandy was passionate about her family and proud of her McCombs ancestors.

Sandy was happiest when she was teaching children.  As a teacher’s aide, her gift was helping students see how to be their best.  She was a special person and offered friendship from the heart.  Her kindness was genuine and she never met a stranger.

Sandy touched the lives of those who knew her and she will be missed. They were all lucky to have her in their lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband of 51 years, Dennis; siblings, Henry “Hank” McCombs Sr., Betty J. Frey, Bonnie L. Barber, and Kenneth “Mike” McCombs; and a granddaughter, Amber N. Turnock.

Sandy is survived by her children, Robin (Ron) Sayles of Vandalia, Sean Dalenberg of Winchester, Virginia, and John (Neva) Turnock of North Bend, Washington; sister, Barbara Bright of Niles; brother, Rex (Dorie) McCombs of Niles; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A time of visitation will take place on Friday, January 25, 2019, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home, where a celebration of her life service will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. Following Sandy’s funeral service, Dennis’ cremated remains will ride with her to Smith’s Chapel Cemetery for burial, where he will receive full military honors performed by the United States Navy and the Buchanan American Legion Post 51.

Memorial contributions may be made in Sandy’s memory to a scholarship fund that was set up in her parent's name.  The scholarship is awarded yearly to a Brandywine High School student; Jay & Cecile McCombs Scholarship Fund in care of Michigan Gateway Community Foundation, 111 Days Ave. Buchanan, Michigan 49107.

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Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, of Niles.