Sandra Ann Russell, 71 of Valparaiso, passed away Monday, July 6, 2026. She was born December 12, 1954, in Gary, IN, to Gerald and Anne (Pazdur) Barenie. Sandi graduated from Griffith High School, and proudly made her career as a paraprofessional with Chesterton schools, assisting students with special needs. She enjoyed her membership at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Valparaiso. Sandi was also very involved in Porter County 4-H as a Leader of the Liberty Sun Setters and a Project Superintendent of American Heritage for over 15 years. She was fond of camping trips with her husband in the pop-up camper they bought with their wedding money almost 40 years ago. What remained most important to Sandi for her whole life though, was her beloved family, especially her sons and grandchildren. Sandi was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, who will be deeply missed.
On October 31, 1987, Sandi married the love of her life, Kyle Russell, who preceded her in death in 2024. She is survived by their sons: Kevin (Andria Rivers) Russell of Milwaukee, WI, and Jeffrey (Amy) Russell of Chesterton, IN; grandchildren: Charlotte and Carter; mother, Anne Barenie; brother, Tim (Cheryl) Barenie; and beloved pets, MiaMae and Sophie. She was preceded in death by her father, Gerald Barenie; and brother, Eddie Barenie.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a memorial service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Burial of ashes will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family.
GUESTBOOK
My Deepesy Sympathy to Sandy's family and brother. I remember Sandy from our childhood. May Sandy RIP. -Claudia Moon Powell
