Sandy Jay Berman

Sanford J. Berman, affectionately known as Sandy, "Sabee," Dad, Papa, Puppy, and famously as the "#2 Flying Jew," passed away on July 28, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He was a son, brother, devoted husband, father, uncle, cousin, grandfather, great-grandfather, loyal friend, and a man whose compassion touched countless lives.

Born and raised on the North Side of Chicago, Sandy was proud of his hometown and the values it instilled in him. As captain of his high school football team, he demonstrated the leadership, determination, and team spirit that would remain with him throughout his life. His love for Chicago never wavered—especially when it came to his beloved Chicago Bears. Whether they were winning or losing, Sandy proudly suited up in his Bears gear every game day, proving that true loyalty never depends on the score.

One of the greatest chapters of Sandy's life began in high school when he met the love of his life, Brenda. The two eloped when Sandy was just 17 years old, beginning an extraordinary marriage that lasted more than 65 years. Together they built a family grounded in unconditional love, unwavering commitment, and countless cherished memories.

Professionally, Sandy successfully helped build and maintain the family's businesses while never losing sight of what mattered most—helping others. He dedicated much of his adult life to working tirelessly alongside hospice organizations and caring for hospice patients. His kindness, empathy, and genuine concern for people during some of life's most difficult moments left a lasting impact on the families he served. Sandy never sought recognition for his generosity; helping others was simply who he was.

Sandy's faith was the foundation of his life. A devout Jew, he embraced the traditions of Judaism with unwavering dedication and joy. He lovingly referred to family and friends by their Hebrew names rather than their secular English names, reflecting how deeply his faith was woven into his everyday life. He found great fulfillment in the study of philosophy, mathematics, and Jewish scholarship, spending countless hours immersed in the Torah, the Talmud, and other sacred texts. His pursuit of knowledge was never-ending, and he delighted in thoughtful conversations that challenged the mind while strengthening the spirit. His faith was not simply something he practiced—it was something he lived, inspiring those around him through his wisdom, conviction, and example.

Above all else, Sandy's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 65 years, Brenda; his daughters, Jodi and Lori; his loving sister Norine, and brother-in-law, Marvin; his brother Glenn, and sister-in-law, Colleen; his cherished grandchildren, Ryan, and his wife Ashley; Randi, and Joshua; his treasured great-grandchildren, Avery and Maverick; and Randi's beloved "pup kid," Bernie, who also held a special place in Sandy's heart.

Sandy will be remembered for his compassionate heart, infectious sense of humor, unforgettable nicknames, unwavering loyalty, and remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed and loved. Whether cheering passionately for the Bears, sharing stories from his Chicago upbringing, or quietly offering comfort to someone in need, he lived a life defined by generosity, resilience, and love.

His legacy is not measured only by the businesses he helped build, the many people he comforted through his hospice work, or the depth of his faith, but by the lives he enriched through his compassion, wisdom, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family, his community, and his Jewish heritage.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Sandy.