Sandra “Sandy” Diane Mittendorf
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About Sandra “Sandy” Diane Mittendorf
Sandra (Sandy) Diane Mittendorf, age 75, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, at Hospice of the Valley’s Levine House in Phoenix, Arizona, after a courageous four-month battle with dementia.
Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Myrtle Palmer; her brothers, Will Simpson, Bill Simpson, and Bob Simpson; and her sister, Shirley Simpson.
She lived a full and active life, deeply enriched by family, friends, and service to others. Sandy was involved in many community activities, including her dedication to the Cub Scouts and her service as a member of the Catalina BSA Council. In more recent years, she devoted her time and heart to the Arizona Jack Russell Rescue, where her compassion and commitment helped more than 500 terriers find loving forever homes.
Sandy is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Gary; her son, Jason; and her daughter-in-law, Jeanette. She was a proud Arizona resident for 70 years and cherished the life she built with her family there.
At this time, no memorial or funeral service will be held. Arrangements for a service will be made at a later date. Bunker Garden Chapel, located at 33 N Centennial Way in Mesa, is overseeing final arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hospice of the Valley in her honor.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
4 comments
Melanie Patton
My heart and prayers go out to you all! Sandy was a very sweet woman and I know you will all miss her!
Love Melanie
Bari Mears
My heartfelt condolences to Gary and the family. Sandy was a joy to know and a true animal lover. She will be missed.
Dennis & Carolyn Storbeck
Gary, so sorry for the loss of Sandy. I know, even today, that the memories do not fade as I think of my own Sandy who has been gone over 25 years. You will cherish those special moments forever!❤️
Jacquie Smith
Gary, Jason, & family:
It saddens me to see this post this evening. I am so sorry for your loss and I hope that you are reminded by many how amazing and special Sandy is.
She touched my life with her love for animals. Her and I stayed in touch for many years and I am so grateful that I met her.
About 15 years ago, she came across a mutt at the pound and considered her to be Jack Russel (maybe a little) and very doubtful this dog was, but she caught Sandy’s eye that day so she took her in at her personal rescue and posted her for adoption.
The pup’s name was Carrie and she was a real mess. She had been found in the streets and had been there awhile.
I saw the post and hadn’t had a dog, but we reached out to Sandy and drove out to meet her and adopted Carrie on the spot. We renamed her and she was our sweet rescue (that rescued us) for about eight years – all because Sandy rescued her from the pound and took her in. I kept in touch with Sandy for years and she was always so kind and loving! I am so grateful for her. I wanted to share this and wish you healing and love.
Blessings,
Jacquie