Gary Allen Sandstrom

Feb 27, 1935 -

Feb 7, 2020

Gary Allen Sandstrom passed quietly in the early morning of Feb. 7, 2020; he was 84 years old.

Gary was born in Caribou, Maine, on Feb. 27, 1935, to Eric and Astrid Sandstrom. Gary worked the family potato farm until the lure of Alaska brought him to Cordova in 1954. While in Cordova, he met his wife, Cecelia (Halverson) Sandstrom. They were married 64 years, starting in May 1956. The couple moved to Anchorage in 1959, where they raised their three boys. Gary and Cecelia were able to travel the world, and see many amazing places.

Gary worked and traveled throughout Alaska as a piledriver, building docks and bridges for various construction companies until 1980. In 1980, he established Sandstrom & Sons Inc. He found great joy in the growth and success of his employees and company.

Gary is survived by his wife, Cecelia Sandstrom; brother, Dale Sandstrom; sisters, Diane Sahler and Donna Smith; sons, Curtis Sandstrom, Jeff (Ruth) Sandstrom and Bill Sandstrom; and grandchildren, Daniel Sandstrom and Mac Sandstrom.

A celebration of Gary's life will be hosted by Sandstrom & Sons Inc. later this summer, at a time and date to be determined.