Obituary for Sandra Emelyn Bergsten, age 76

September 17, 1949 - January 15, 2026
Sandra Emelyn Bergsten, age 76 of Burnsville, MN passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She is preceded in death by her parents Emil and Violette, and brother-in-law, Louie. She is survived by her loving husband, Gary Bergsten; daughter Karin (Kirk) McKelvey, and son Chris (Mischa) Bergsten; grandchildren, Sigrid, Adelaide, Liesl, Urban, Harriet, and Chase; sister, Sonya Larson, and many other family and friends. 
Sandy was born on September 17,1949 in Williams, MN to Emil and Violette Swanson. She attended Bemidji State, and that’s where she met her husband Gary Bergsten, and they were married in 1973. Sandy was a teacher for 38 years before her retirement, she taught at Pine River Schools for 2 years, and Glacier Hills Elementary in Eagan for 36 years.
She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, and took immense pride in caring for the people closest to her. Her love was steady and unconditional, and she showed it through her actions—always present, always supportive, and always putting others first. 
Sandy was known for her kindness, quiet strength, and ability to make people feel comfortable and valued. She had a thoughtful nature and a generous heart, offering encouragement, understanding, and warmth without asking for anything in return. She had a way of making people feel seen and cared for. Her warm smile, gentle words, and steady presence brought comfort to many. She faced life’s challenges with resilience and grace, leaving a strong and lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
She found joy in life’s simple moments, time with family and friends, cooking, traveling, reading, gardening, conversation, and laughter. Some of her most meaningful times were spent gathered with family and friends, sharing meals, stories, and memories that will continue to be cherished.
Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched with her compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor her memory to do so through acts of kindness or by supporting a cause meaningful to them.
Sandy will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew her.
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Private burial service will be held at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN.
White Funeral Home 952-894-5080
Condolences at: www.whitefuneralhomes.com