Elaine Josephine (Saniti) Dandrea

On December 18, 2024, our dear mother, Elaine, donned her golden slippers and joined the choir of angels praising God. Her beloved husband, Frank, met her at the heavenly gates and took her hand for their eternal stroll on the golden streets of Heaven.

Elaine was born into a large, immigrant Italian family during the height of the Depression in St. Paul, MN. She graduated from Johnson High School where she starred in several operettas.

Elaine married her dashing Navy pilot, at age 19. Immediately they moved to Florida and her adventures as a military officer’s wife commenced. She had to learn to drive, and pack a house full of love, young children and furniture on a moment’s notice. As many military families do, they moved often. They were blessed with 5 children. Travels included military bases from Cuba to Alaska, among others. After Frank’s retirement they settled back in MN, near family.

Being a stay-at-home mom was a vocation Elaine took seriously and performed with great love. While the Lord was calling her name, her children could tell it was very difficult for her to leave them: Anna (Chuck), Michael (Julie), Joseph (Duc), Patricia (Jim), and Theresa (Danny). Grandchildren: Christa, Nicholas, Anthony, Stephanie, Broc and Alyssa and her great grandchildren: Matthew, Brian, Emily, Jeremy, Jackson, and Lucy Jo. Elaine also leaves many nieces and nephews who were very dear to her. She was preceded in death by two nieces.

Elaine’s Roman Catholic faith was her rock and mainstay. Many people she met asked her to pray for someone in need. Her prayer box is full of names. Her rosary was always with her and in daily use. Toward the end of her earthly life, Elaine related a dream to her daughters in which she was assured by angels that her prayers had been received. A special thank you to Barb DeGrood, who, as a Befriender from Guardian Angels Catholic Church to both Frank and Elaine, became a dear and faithful family friend. She often calmed Elaine’s heart through prayer, discussion of God’s word and providing the Holy Eucharist.

Elaine’s family would like to thank the staff of Hospice of the Midwest, (1811 Weir Dr. #150 Woodbury, MN 55125) https://hospiceofthemidwest.com), especially Crystal, Mary, Karen, Chaplain Sharon, and Chaplain Nichole for their devoted care. Also to ‘Siggy’ with CareAparent, for her loving attention during the past months.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 8260 4th St. N. Oakdale, MN 55128, or your local Hospice Care Facility in memory of Elaine.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 10:30 AM with Visitation one hour prior to service, from 9:30 - 10:30 AM, at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 8260 4th St. N., Oakdale, MN 55128. Due to the cold weather, committal prayers will be held at the end of the Mass at the church. A luncheon will immediately follow mass at the church. Elaine will be interred privately at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.