Sandy Gene Sturm

Sandy Gene Sturm entered his heavenly home on December 6, 2020. He was born in Visalia, California on April 26, 1952 to his parents, Geri and Elton Sturm. Sandy attended Visalia Unified schools and, during his elementary years, he was an excellent baseball player. As a child, he was affectionately called “Buttons” by his family members. As an adult, Sandy spent many years in Minnesota, but he eventually moved back to his hometown of Visalia where he remained until his death. Sandy’s lifelong career was in carpet and flooring installation. To all who knew him, Sandy had the biggest heart; he was a friend to all, he gave generously to anyone in need, and he had an extra soft spot for his menagerie of dogs and cats. A big part of Sandy’s life involved his music and his recovery. Sandy helped start and lead many addiction recovery programs around Tulare County. He showed strength and compassion to many people on their journey of sobriety, which had a profound impact on the lives of many people over the years. In addition, anyone who knew Sandy, knew of his love for music. He was gifted at playing the guitar and singing and one of his favorite opportunities was leading worship at his church and recovery groups. Sandy was preceded in death by his mother and father, Geri and Elton Sturm, his son, Justin Sturm, and his previous wife, Debbie Smith Sturm. Sandy is survived by his wife, Christina Kline Sturm and her children, his brother, Greg Sturm, his step-mother, Ina Sturm, his aunts, Dorix Wilcox and Melva Colangelo, his step-daughter and son-in-law, Allison and Noah Wardrip, and three granddaughters, Keira and Corinne Wardrip, and Charlotte Sturm. A private graveside service for the immediate family will be held at Visalia District Cemetery. A celebration of life service for extended family and friends will be conducted via a virtual format with more information to come.