Sandra "Sandy" Velichkoff, nee Keith, age 62, a resident of West Chicago for more than 34 years, died Monday, January 14, 2013, at her home under hospice care. She was born on October 28, 1950 in Harvey, IL to George A. and Theresa A. Keith.

Sandy studied at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for two years and graduated from the ADN program at College of Du Page in Glen Ellyn. She worked as a registered nurse at Central Du Page Hospital (Cadence Health) for more than 27 years as a member of the med/surg resource team.

On August 21, 1971, Sandy married Jerry Velichkoff. They settled in West Chicago in September, 1978, where they raised their two children. Sandy’s heart was first and foremost at home with her family in her roles as wife, mother, and grandmother. She served in several churches over the years—much of her service was in music, playing the piano, synthesizer, and organ. She was active in teaching Sunday school, Women’s Bible studies, etc. She is currently a member of Wheaton Bible Church. Sandy enjoyed reading, watching Fox News, and following Chicago sports.

Sandy was diagnosed with kidney cancer in January 2012, and she immediately claimed the verse Jeremiah 29:11: "?For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Sandy clung to that promise as she endured 4 surgeries and?various forms of? treatment. The comfort of that promise allowed her to endure the past year with tremendous courage, strength, and grace. Sandy's life has fulfilled that hope as she has received complete healing in heaven, where she now is with her Savior Jesus Christ.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Jerry; her two children, Jeremy S. (Jen) Velichkoff of Maple Park, and Kimberly J. (Mike) Hanson of West Chicago; her eight grandchildren, Amanda, Vanessa, Cassie, Tanner, Madeline, Jared, Emma Mae, and Jake; her father, George A. (Norma) Keith; her brother, Robert (Tracy) Keith; and her sister, Kathy (Brian) Ayers. She was preceded in death by her mother, Theresa A. Keith; and her brother, Bruce A. Keith.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Wheaton Bible Church, Attention: Memorial Fund in Honor of Sandy Velichkoff, 27W500 North Ave., West Chicago, IL 60185.