Ann Arbor, MI
Age 81, passed away suddenly but peacefully on March 18, 2019. She was surrounded by her loving family when she died at the University of Michigan Hospital. Sandy was born on September 27, 1937 and was the only child of William and Barbara (Cormack) Nicolson in Detroit. Both of her parents were born in Scotland, and Sandy was very proud of her Scottish heritage.
She graduated from Detroit’s Denby High School in 1955 where she formed lifelong friendships with a group of ten women fondly referred to as “the sibs.” Sandy adored these friends throughout her life as they stayed in touch, took trips, had reunions, and always supported one another. While at Albion College, Sandy was involved in the radio station, Delta Gamma sorority, and various clubs. She graduated in 1958. She loved Albion and the special friends she made there. Next, she worked at the University of Michigan, starting as a lab tech in Health Service, followed by work in a medical research lab.
Like her own mother, “kind, sweet, caring, smart, and generous” were words friends and family most often used to describe her. Also like her mom, she had a deep faith and a quick sense of humor.
On October 26, 1963 she married James Foulke, and they moved to Ann Arbor in 1965. Sandy chose to be a full-time mother to her two daughters. Her deep love and devotion to her family, as well as her faith, kindness, generosity, patience, and humor, will serve as lasting examples for her family.
Her five grandchildren brought her so much joy. She proudly attended their school and athletic events where many of her grandkids’ teammates and school friends called her “grandma”. Sandy was an inspiring woman who always smiled and had a special ability to connect with people. She also had an incredible memory and always asked people about the things that mattered most to them. Sandy made friends wherever she went. She loved some of Ann Arbor’s local restaurants for the staff she became friends with, as well as the great food. She truly loved people and brought out the best in everyone she met.
Sandy’s love for learning continued throughout her life. She stayed informed on current events, and there were many causes and issues she was passionate about. She also had a flare for life and fun and enjoyed going to plays and concerts (especially Green Wood Coffee House).
Sandy was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor. She is survived by her beloved husband James; two daughters, Jane (Dave) Heetderks and Karen (Kevin) Larson both of Ann Arbor; five grandchildren, Evan, Ryan, and Alaina Heetderks, and Sarah and Eric Larson; and many other family and friends she adored. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, May 11th at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 120 S. State St. in Ann Arbor. Her ashes will be interred in the First United Methodist Church Memorial Garden.
In keeping with her spirit of kindness and generosity, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: First United Methodist Church –L.O.V.E. Thy Neighbor (to help the hungry) or Albion College towards the Briton Scholarship Fund. Please include “in memory of Sandra Nicolson Foulke” on the memo line.
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