Sandy Verhasselt

November 10, 1958 — March 31, 2026

Sandy Verhasselt

Service Details

Sandra Kay Verhasselt was born November 10, 1958 in Springfield, Illinois to Ray and Norma Brunner.

She graduated from Lanphier High School in 1977, earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from University of Illinois in 1981, and received her Master of Science in Dietetics from Illinois State University in 1989.

She married Dan Verhasselt in 1987 and they built a life centered around family, faith, and community.

Sandy worked for the Illinois Department of Revenue, the VA Medical Center as a dietitian, and at Des Moines Area Community College as the Dietary Manager Specialist Program Coordinator.

She was a devoted member of All Saints Catholic Church and was active in the International Twins Association, Genesis Health Club, Compass Group, PEO, and book clubs.

Sandy enjoyed staying active through exercise, walks, and pickleball. She was an avid reader and loved baking. Above all, she cherished time with her family—especially her three sons and two granddaughters who brought her immense joy.

Sandy passed away on March 31, 2026 after a short but brave battle with cancer. Her love of family and faith brought her comfort and peace through her fight.

She is survived by her loving husband, Dan; her sons, Heath (Katrina), Andy, and Jared (Megan); her granddaughters, June and Ellie; her mother, Norma Brunner; her twin sister, Susie (Barry) Baatz; her sisters, Karen (Tom) Hafel and Carol (Jay) Parker. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Lori, Erin, Kristen, Devon, Jennifer, Kimberly, Justin, and Whitney.

She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Brunner; and her brother, Gary Brunner.

A memorial mass will be held at All Saints Catholic Church on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Chris Reising officiating. Visitation will also be at All Saints Catholic Church on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. The address of All Saints Catholic Church is 650 NE 52nd Ave, Des Moines, IA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to All Saints Catholic Church, UnityPoint Hospice - Taylor House, or organizations supporting liver cancer and lymphoma research, including the American Liver Foundation and the Lymphoma Research Foundation.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all the doctors, nurses, social workers, church members, neighbors, and friends for their care and support.