I am the author of my own Obituary. The following may be unconventional or simply my “odd sense of humor”, but really, who cares? What can they do to me now? When God is with me, who can be against me?
My name is Victor George Sandru. On the afternoon of May 15th 2021, the Good Lord opened His arms and accepted me into Heaven (I pray). The past few years my old ticker had grown tired and even after a new valve, I felt my time was near.
First and foremost I give praise to my loving Savior Jesus Christ. I don’t deserve it but I hope to meet my Lord and Savior face to face, humbly. I was a man who loved the Lord and tried to be a good example to those who knew me, watching my daily walk throughout life with Christ.
I’d like to be remembered like the Apostle Paul. I fought the good fight! I didn’t win, but I gave it the best I had in me.
2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept my faith.”
During my recent health struggle I was cared for and comforted by my sons and loving family. I have finished my journey at 90 years young! Instead of service at the V.A. Cemetery, I will rest at Forestvale Cemetery by my brother Frankie’s side at the feet of my Mother and Father.
I was born October 21, 1930 in Massillon, OH to Anna and Frank Sandru. My parents were proud Romanian immigrants who moved to Helena when my brother Frankie and I were young boys. I grew up on Water St. at the base of the Billy Goat cave where I spent my youth. I graduated from Helena High and eventually a degree in Criminal Justice from Ohio State University. I served my country proudly and honorably overseas for 3 years during the Korean War in the Air Force. I love my Country, and even more so proud of our Flag. After returning home from overseas, I joined the Helena Police Department. I patrolled the streets of Helena over 13 years. My goal as a Police Officer, which I performed proudly, was to serve my community, safeguard lives and property and protect the innocent and weak against injustice.
My passion in life were my 5 sons, “Behold my beloved Sons of whom I am so proud”. I loved creek fishing around Little Blackfoot, hunting and camping with my boys and enjoying big meals with friends and family. I love sitting in the sun, good food and good laughs and finding adventure travelling with my sons.
I am preceded in death by my parents Anna and Frank Sandru, my brother Frankie Sandru, K.I.A. USMC, WWII, my son Dino Sandru and my loving cat of 20 years named Indy.
I am survived by my beloved sons Christopher and Patrick Sandru, Shawn (V. Sandru) Lay, Philip Johnson. My loving daughters-in-law Gaida Hobby Martin, Ruby Ann Love and Robyn Johnson. As well as 7 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. And the mother of my two youngest sons, Linda Kerpa.
I extend my uttermost praise and gratitude to all personnel at Fort Harrison V.A. Hospital for my numerous surgeries and healing therapy I received there over the years. You are all a credit to your profession. Your care was compassionate, memorable and life saving. To me you are all angels.
So, in conclusion, to all my friends who were few, and to all of the unfortunate people who didn’t know me, I leave you with this:
“Time does not become sacred to us until we have lived it, until it has passed over us and taken with it a part of ourselves”.
Sweet Jesus, your name is the last name that leaves my lips when I fall asleep each night ad your name is the first name spoken from my lips when I awake each morning. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Victor
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Janet says
ah, I’m sad to see this. I will always remember Vic and Mrs. Sandru fondly. I admired how he cared so much for his mom and would be over every day checking on her. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Michelle Van Nice says
Chris & Patrick and family,
So very sorry for your loss. Keeping all of you in my prayers.
Julie Massaro says
Patrick/Gaida, Chris/Ruby, Linda….
I was sorry to hear of the passing of Vic. You all took such good care of him and it’s obvious how much he loved you all. Your relationships with him are inspiring. Rick and I send our love and condolences to you.
Sean K. Wines says
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Vic. He was an awesome fellow who was a great family friend for as long as I can remember. He and my father served together on the Helena Police force. I will miss Vic very much. He made and canned the best “hot” vegetables ever. To the family, please accept my deepest condolences. May the good Lord comfort you during this time. Vic, rest in peace my friend.
Sincerely,
Sean
Ralph Beer says
When I was a small boy, Vic gave me a toy he’d bought in England (I think) and brought home after being discharged from the military. The toy is a tin monkey, sitting on a tin stump. When wound up by a key, the monkey strums a guitar and music-box sounds play a tune. At that time, Vic’s parents lived across Butte Avenue from my parents’ house. I remember Vics parents as exceptionally good-looking people, who were kind and considerate neighbors.
I still have the guitar-playing monkey, and he still plays his tune when I wind him up. I remain touched to this day, by vic Sandru’s thoughtful and generous gift to the little kid who lived across the street.
Patrick says
Thank You All for the kind wishes and remembrances for our Dad, Victor Sandru. He lived a long and meaningful life.
We are so proud to be his sons. We love and miss you Tata!
Patrick & Christopher Sandru
Fran says
Shawn, am deeply sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing.
Praying you are comforted by our Heavenly Father in Jesus’ Holy Name –
Charles Woods says
I was likely going to be stopping in town this summer and from time to time, in the past, I would stop by and say hi to Vic. A quick google search shockingly brought me here. Growing up I was close friends with his son Chris and spent a good amount of time with the family. I have wonderful and fond memories of Vic. He was always great to be around, truly interesting, and cheerful. He made amazing deer jerky too! Also, I have strong memories of the fact that he always blessed his food before meals and this example was not lost on me. It’s been a few years since I was last in town and it saddens me to think that I will not drive by and see Vic out in the yard. To his family, I send my deepest condolences and I am thankful that I was able to know Vic. Your Dad will be remembered fondly.