Sandra Herceg

Sandra Herceg, 86, of Munroe Falls, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2021. She was born in Akron, OH on December 5th, 1934, to the late Frank and Mary (DePaul) Gifford. Also preceded in death by her brother, Richard Gifford.

As many already know, Sandra was one of the most selfless, caring, loving and talented people we know.

Always willing to join in whether it was just to run to the grocery store, help paint a room, go kayaking or join her friends and family for many cruises and beach trips, movie nights or card games. She had an astonishing zest for life and her answer was always “Yes, of course. When can we go?”

Our family was fortunate to be able to take two family trips in recent years to the Outer Banks where we all stayed in a big house and made amazing memories that we will cherish forever!

Her love for her family and friends is endless. She would bake cookies and use them as an excuse to stop by while they were still warm. She would also call to invite everyone over when she made her delicious homemade pizza. Of course, she knew how much we loved her pizza, and she would bask in the joy of her family around her. She would always say, “You all have to eat; so why not here?” with a smirk...

To say she was an artist is an understatement. It was not only what she was able to put on a canvas, but also how she saw the world through her artist eyes. Her description of colors and detail while looking at a landscape or her ability to carve a masterpiece from the beach sand or nurture and grow her beautiful garden and flowers was astonishing. She really did become an artist of life.

Sandra has taught us all so much and was so humble that she would never take credit for anything that we accomplished along the way.  She always said it was our own doing. Sandra raised 5 strong, independent children with her same passion for life and adventure.  It took us a bit to know she was always right, but once we learned this lesson, her wisdom always drove us to be the best version of ourselves. When she hugged you, everything was better.

We know she is in a better place, painting, listening to music, singing, dancing, eating pasta and ice cream, enjoying her glass of wine, and waiting for us to join her.

Surely, she loves the fact that we will all continue to gather in person and in spirit to celebrate her life and that we will continue to spread her love though our hugs.

Sandra is survived by her husband, Thomas Herceg of Munroe Falls; children, Renee (Harry) Dugan, Chuck Yen, Darrin (Leslie) Yen, Mari (Frank) Stams, Jason (Ana) Herceg; brother, Donald (Lois) Gifford; sister, Carole Gifford; grandchildren, Justin Dugan, Katlyn (Christian) Baker, Ryan Dugan, Cheyenne Yen, Kallie Yen, Rhiannon Stams, Mason Stams, Skylar Yen, Jarod Yen, Mia Herceg, and Malakai Herceg; five great grandchildren, and an endless amount of beloved family and friends, who are family.

In lieu of other remembrances, donations may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association www.act.alz.org/donate or to your local Art Studios.

A  graveside service will be held at Chestnut Hill Memorial Park in Cuyahoga Falls, Tuesday July 6th at 11:00am.

To view tribute video, send condolences or sign the guest book visit www.cliffordshoemaker.com