Sandra Louise Coffin
As you stand upon a shore, gazing at a beautiful sea - remember me.
As you look in awe at a mighty forest and its grand majesty - remember me.
As you look upon a flower and admire its simplicity - remember me.
Remember me in your heart, your thoughts, your memories of the times we loved, the times we cried, the times we fought, the times we laughed.
For if you always think of me, I will never be gone.
- excerpt from "Remember Me" by Margaret Mead
Obituary
Sandra Louise Coffin was born to Gordon and Barbara Coffin, on November 20, 1954, at Abbott Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She grew up in Long Lake, Minnesota, and attended Orono High School. Sandra studied at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, graduating with a degree in Romance Languages. She then went on to study medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School and did her residency in Family Practice medicine at Bethesda Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota. She was thrilled when she was able to participate in a rural medicine rotation in New Zealand, an experience working with the Maori people that she never forgot.
Sandra practiced medicine for many years at Family Practitioners P.A., a private clinic in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, that was later absorbed into the Health East system. She also worked as a preceptor, teaching and guiding medical students. Sandra was a dedicated doctor and cared deeply about her patients.
Sandra loved gardening, sewing, baking and spending time with her beloved pets. She was an avid reader and enjoyed listening to classical music. She was known to family, friends and professional colleagues as the "whistle-singer" because of her ability to hum a tune while simultaneously whistling the harmony line. She spent her life looking for another person with the same ability so that they could do quartets together but, alas, that person never appeared!
Sandra Louise Coffin, 69, of Afton, Minnesota, died on August 28, 2024.
Sandy is survived by her sister Linda Coffin, sister-in-law Kathy Webster, cousins and friends. Memorial donations to Doctors Without Borders would be greatly appreciated.
Timeline
1954
November 20th
Sandra Louise Coffin is born
Her father, exiled to the waiting room, was told the birth was going slowly and that he should go home and return in the morning. However, he had barely arrived home when he was told to return as quickly as possible to be there to welcome his new daughter! He made it on time.
Abbott Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota
1973
June
Sandy graduates from Orono High School
Long Lake, Minnesota
1977
June
Sandy graduates from Carleton College
She receives a B.A. degree in Romance Languages
Northfield, Minnesota
1978
Sandy takes a year off to think about her future
She joins her college roommate, Mary Lou, who is working for the border patrol on the Canadian border.
Calais, Maine
1980
Sandy goes back to school
She begins pre-med courses at the University of Minnesota, while working at a variety of part-time jobs (J.C. Penney, a local nursing home, and as part of the surgical clean-up team at a local hospital).
Minneapolis, Minnesota
1985
Sandy graduates from medical school
She receives a M.D. degree
Minneapolis, Minnesota
1988
June
Sandy finishes a three-year residency, with a specialty in Family Practice Medicine
Bethesda Hospital, St. Paul, Minnesota
1988
July
Sandy begins work as a partner at the Family Practitioners, P.A., clinic
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
1997
Sandy designs her own dream home
Working with an architect, Sandy incorporates exactly what she wants in her home: a dedicated sewing room, a library with lots of shelves and a fireplace, a screened-in porch, a generous pantry, a baking area in the kitchen, lots and lots of large windows, and a pergola leading to her huge garden.
Afton, Minnesota
2013
June 20th
Sandy receives the Community Preceptor of the Year Award
"In appreciation of your years of service and commitment to the residency program"
St. Joseph's Hospital, St. Paul, Minnesota
2017
April
Sandy retires from active medical practice
After her diagnosis with bone marrow cancer, Sandy chooses to focus on her hobbies, especially gardening and especially peonies!
Afton, Minnesota
2024
Sandy passes away in her own home
Sandy died in her home with 24-hour care from a team of nurses and hospice providers. Her beloved cat Charlie was with her. Many of her friends from the area came to say goodbye in her last days.
Afton, Minnesota
Gallery
Memory wall
Post your condolences or share your Memories.
September 20, 2024
I met Sandy at Quaker Meeting as she was part of the talented and very welcoming Coffin family. I missed the FUN of knowing Sandy and Linda as children since I came to the Quakers as an adult. Until just now, I did not know that Sandy and I share the same middle name.
Sandy is the only one I've ever heard whistle-sing and I heard this marvel more than once. As an occasional reader of Facebook, I was able to follow her during Covid, and recently as her illness progressed. I loved reading her posts.
Blessings to you, Linda and Kathy, as you carry on.
Sandy is the only one I've ever heard whistle-sing and I heard this marvel more than once. As an occasional reader of Facebook, I was able to follow her during Covid, and recently as her illness progressed. I loved reading her posts.
Blessings to you, Linda and Kathy, as you carry on.
September 19, 2024
It is so hard to know how to adequately honor my lifelong friend Sandy Coffin. She meant SO much to me in so many ways.
As a young child growing up in a Quaker church, we were required to sit quietly for (seemingly) very long periods of time. I was lucky. I had my friend Sandy Coffin by my side most Sundays. We would change up whose parents we were sitting by, as we were a challenging duo! Sandy taught me many word games we could play on a piece of paper. Inevitably, we would end up trying to stifle our giggles, much to our parent’s dismay. Her friendship got me through those long periods of silence, and I looked forward to seeing her each Sunday!
When we were about 8 years old, we were both very into our Barbie dolls. I especially enjoyed playing with her at her house, as her father Gordon had made his girls the biggest most beautiful Barbie house! He had made a child size play house too. I can’t recall if it was for my birthday or Christmas, but one year Sandy gave me the best gift I could ever imagine. She spent weeks sewing a whole box of darling outfits for my Barbie. Every hat, dress, night gown, ball gown, pants, shirts etc was meticulously designed and sewn. I was (and is) blown away with her talent in sewing and her sweet generosity. Best gift ever. Made with love.
In our teenage years, I remember some of our times at church camp. She made everything more fun. Once she got a popsicle stuck to her tongue…it was painful so we rushed to the nearest bathroom to run water on her tongue. To our elation, the popsicle came off! To our mortification, we realized after a male church member came out of a stall, that we were in the Men’s bathroom. Oh the memories. We giggled a lot over that one!
As a young adult, Sandy had a dream to backpack through Europe. I was honored she asked me to join her. I quit my job, we planned our extensive itinerary, bought Eurrail passes and went on this incredible adventure together. We visited at least a dozen countries and travelled many miles staying at youth hostels along the way. We had challenges and joys, and I thank her for that experience of a lifetime. She pushed me out of my comfort zone and I’ll be forever grateful.
Fast forward to more recent years, as age and life threw us curveballs, Sandy was always there to lend her experience in doctoring to alleviate fears and give sound advice. She and her family were by our side as we lost our parents. She was always willing to listen. Always gave us love and support, even when she herself was suffering. We bonded again as politics heated up. She was of like mind, so it was nice to comment to someone who kept up with current events and shared common beliefs and passions. I know she is watching, and pushing me again out of my comfort zone to be her voice. I’m trying to be. She wasn’t afraid to educate, repudiate, validate or celebrate about topics important to me and the world as a whole.
Like I said in the beginning, there is so much about Sandy and our shared memories that I treasure dearly and always will. Words fall short, but my heart is full.
You will be so missed Sandy. Love you for eternity.
From your giggle-pal Patti (White) Larson
As a young child growing up in a Quaker church, we were required to sit quietly for (seemingly) very long periods of time. I was lucky. I had my friend Sandy Coffin by my side most Sundays. We would change up whose parents we were sitting by, as we were a challenging duo! Sandy taught me many word games we could play on a piece of paper. Inevitably, we would end up trying to stifle our giggles, much to our parent’s dismay. Her friendship got me through those long periods of silence, and I looked forward to seeing her each Sunday!
When we were about 8 years old, we were both very into our Barbie dolls. I especially enjoyed playing with her at her house, as her father Gordon had made his girls the biggest most beautiful Barbie house! He had made a child size play house too. I can’t recall if it was for my birthday or Christmas, but one year Sandy gave me the best gift I could ever imagine. She spent weeks sewing a whole box of darling outfits for my Barbie. Every hat, dress, night gown, ball gown, pants, shirts etc was meticulously designed and sewn. I was (and is) blown away with her talent in sewing and her sweet generosity. Best gift ever. Made with love.
In our teenage years, I remember some of our times at church camp. She made everything more fun. Once she got a popsicle stuck to her tongue…it was painful so we rushed to the nearest bathroom to run water on her tongue. To our elation, the popsicle came off! To our mortification, we realized after a male church member came out of a stall, that we were in the Men’s bathroom. Oh the memories. We giggled a lot over that one!
As a young adult, Sandy had a dream to backpack through Europe. I was honored she asked me to join her. I quit my job, we planned our extensive itinerary, bought Eurrail passes and went on this incredible adventure together. We visited at least a dozen countries and travelled many miles staying at youth hostels along the way. We had challenges and joys, and I thank her for that experience of a lifetime. She pushed me out of my comfort zone and I’ll be forever grateful.
Fast forward to more recent years, as age and life threw us curveballs, Sandy was always there to lend her experience in doctoring to alleviate fears and give sound advice. She and her family were by our side as we lost our parents. She was always willing to listen. Always gave us love and support, even when she herself was suffering. We bonded again as politics heated up. She was of like mind, so it was nice to comment to someone who kept up with current events and shared common beliefs and passions. I know she is watching, and pushing me again out of my comfort zone to be her voice. I’m trying to be. She wasn’t afraid to educate, repudiate, validate or celebrate about topics important to me and the world as a whole.
Like I said in the beginning, there is so much about Sandy and our shared memories that I treasure dearly and always will. Words fall short, but my heart is full.
You will be so missed Sandy. Love you for eternity.
From your giggle-pal Patti (White) Larson
September 17, 2024
I was so incredibly fortunate to have my desk next to Sandy’s for many years in the Cottage Grove clinic. We shared laughter, wisdom and sometimes tears, also many late nights!
My favorite memory was when she delivered my first granddaughter! My daughter was stationed in Puerto Rico with the Coast Guard at the time . Sandy agreed t take on her care at 36 weeks. It was a very joyful occasion for all of us! Sandy never asked anyone to leave! So we all shared in the birth, even my husband! Sandy was beaming!
Much love to Linda and Kathy!
My favorite memory was when she delivered my first granddaughter! My daughter was stationed in Puerto Rico with the Coast Guard at the time . Sandy agreed t take on her care at 36 weeks. It was a very joyful occasion for all of us! Sandy never asked anyone to leave! So we all shared in the birth, even my husband! Sandy was beaming!
Much love to Linda and Kathy!
September 16, 2024
I loved coming home and sharing in a meal or a coffee with Sandy and both of our families. She always had a twinkle in her eye, her laugh was contagious and listening and watching as she jabbed my dad about their childhood was truly a delicious treat. Such an interesting woman with so many stories to share. I am wondering now, though, how does one go from studying the romance languages to applying for Med school? She was something else!
September 15, 2024
Sandy and I became close friends the first year of Family Practice Residency at Bethesda hospital. She was an excellent doctor and a fun traveling, dining, gardening, and reading companion.
I've shared a picture: Sandy was the first visitor to hold my newborn son, as she was on call at our hospital when he was born.
I am grateful for her friendship throughout the years. Rest in peace, Sandy.
I've shared a picture: Sandy was the first visitor to hold my newborn son, as she was on call at our hospital when he was born.
I am grateful for her friendship throughout the years. Rest in peace, Sandy.
September 14, 2024
Sandy and I worked together at Family Practioners for many years. I was her nurse and marveled at the care, compassion and time she would give to every single patient she saw. We became good friends and had some very memorable vacations. New Zealond being my favorite. The last few years of her journey were not easy ones but she still maintained her independence, strong opinions and sense of humor. I am honored and blessed to have had Sandy as my friend. I miss you very much,Sandy, and I am grateful for the time we had together. Rest in God's boundless love.
September 12, 2024
So enjoyed the time we visited and broke bread at Sandy’s house you both. Such a great memory. I was very involved with 4-H. I wish I would’ve known that when we visited Sandy and I could’ve talked up a storm!
September 12, 2024
Family vacations to Minnesota were a highlight for me. Visiting our Grandparents, Uncle Gordon, Aunt Barbara, Linda Beth and Sandy was so much fun. Especially out on Long Lake. Home movies of Linda Beth and Sandy following me around their yard when I was two or three years old are among my favorites. Volleyball with Sandy was nothing short of amazing. Hard to imagine anyone with more enthusiasm. Be at Rest Sandy.
September 11, 2024
I met Sandy on our first day at Carleton, although she had written a letter(in her perfect handwriting) before we got there. I am enormously grateful to have had her as a friend. I will miss her dearly. Masha
September 9, 2024
Seeing the note about Sandy winning 4H awards reminded me of her bunnies. I loved seeing them when we visited, except for that really mean one she had, lol.
Family tree
Roscoe Coffin
Isabella Reid
Ralph Knight
Clara Hill
Gordon Coffin
Barbara Knight
Linda Coffin
Linda Coffin
Sandra Coffin
Favorites
What was Sandra's favorite Music / Song?
Chopin's "Harp Etude" (Opus 25, #1)
What was Sandra's favorite Travel destination?
New Zealand. After her experience practicing rural medicine there, she had an abiding love of that country.
What cause was important to Sandra?
Sandy was a strong supporter of the work being done by Doctors Without Borders.
Fun fact about Sandra:
She could "whistle-sing." She hummed the melody and whistled harmony at the same time. It was an amazing thing to hear and no one could believe at first that she was actually doing it, BUT SHE WAS!
What was Sandra's favorite vacation spot?
The family cottage on Crooked Lake, Crow Wing County, Minnesota. She spent many happy vacations there from childhood on.
Fun fact about Sandra:
Sandy won the state high school piano contest twice and played in a concert at Northrup Auditorium at the University of Minnesota, as one of 12 pianos on stage.
Fun fact about Sandra:
Sandy was active in 4-H (in which the whole family participated). She won many blue ribbons at the county fair and went on to demonstrate at the Minnesota State Fair twice during high school.
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