Sandberg, Brenda L.
August 21, 1961- July 15, 2023
Brenda L. (Kostad) Sandberg, age 61, went home to her heavenly father on July 15, 2023, after her courageous battle with cancer.
Brenda treasured making memories with family and friends above all else. Brenda’s favorite role was being “Grammy” to her loving grandchildren. Her seven-year-old grandson, Edwin, perfectly captured his Grammy’s essence, “Grammy is magical. She could turn any day into an adventure. We would camp in the living room with a real tent, her paper fire creation, and s’mores. She would round up all the pillows and the biggest sheets to build giant forts. I would wake in the morning to a scavenger hunt to find the supplies for a super special breakfast. This summer, we even made exploding volcanoes in her kitchen and she didn’t even care that we made a huge mess. I don’t think there is anything she couldn’t do. She could make cards, paint pottery, embroider, crochet, quilt, sew clothes, garden, and restore antiques. She was never too old to have a snowball fight, dress up for Halloween, sing karaoke, have a tea party, or play with our toys. She wanted every child to have a wonderful childhood. She taught me how to cook Norwegian food, bake cookies, and help others in need. She told me stories about growing up in North Dakota and having a career as a Court Reporter. She believed in Jesus and the power of prayer. Grammy is my best friend and I miss her a lot.”
Brenda is survived by her daughters, Amy (Mike) Benkis and Courtney (Mark) Matulka; grandchildren, Bianca, Edwin, and Annelise; honorary Damm-Johnson grandchildren, Jalysia, Jevin, Kinlei, Keacia, Myranda, and Pipyr; beloved niece, Marciana (Kyle) Damm; sisters, Teresa (Doug) Johnson and Sheila Reeves; and brothers, Craig, Ivan, and Vern Kostad. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hans Kostad and Helena Stompro; beloved aunt and uncle, May and Glenn Martinson; sister, Rhonda Peralta; brothers, Hans “Hank” Kostad and Curtiss “Corey” Kostad; nephew, Joshua Sandberg; and honorary grandson, Torbin Damm.
FAMILY RECEIVES FRIENDS: Thursday July 20, 2023, 5pm-7pm at the West Center Chapel. followed by VIGIL SERVICE: at 7pm. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Friday July 21, 2023, 10:30am at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 5801 Oak Hills Dr. Omaha, NE. INTERMENT: Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed by the family. To view a live broadcast of the Service, please go to www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “view livecast” button.
13 Comments
Sending our deepest condolences and love to your whole family. I am lucky to have met Brenda and she was a shining light. I know her light will continue to shine on your families. With love, Jake and Katie
Thoughts and prayers to you all love you. My sis was a caring loving woman loved Jesus. Many prayers for you and God Bless
I only saw Brenda a few times after my family moved out of Summerwood; but we crossed paths often before then — when our girls played together, in sharing about our faith, and as court reporters. She was an excellent reporter — as she excelled in everything she did. I can just see her being the great “Grammy” as described by Edwin! My condolences to Amy, Courtney, and all her family. May she rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus.
Brenda was my card class buddy. We laughed, helped each other with our cards and shared our love of our Grandchildren. She was a loving soul with all the kindness in the world. I will truly miss my partner in crime and wish we could have spent more time together. Love and peace to Brenda and her family. She leaves a big gap behind. Love you Brenda, Barb
Grief is the price we pay for love.
Queen Elizabeth
Sorry to hear,prayers going out her family
Courtney, Mark and family. My heart goes out to you in the loss of your dear mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She wore many hats so very well and left profound impact! In restored health, she is now at peace.
Mark and Courtney, sending my most heartfelt condolences to you and your families , what a incredibly beautiful memory for Edwin and the others grandchildren , she must really been a extraordinary woman , so sorry for your loss, ,she may rest in peace
Amy, Courtney and family: I am saddened to learn of Brenda’s passing. She was a wonderful and inspirational woman. Her love will give you strength.
I’ll be unable to attend the services but my deepest condolences. She was a dear sweet lady.
Amy, Courtney and Family, so sorry for your loss. Brenda was such a guiding light for so many and will be missed by all. I never saw her without a beautiful smile on her face and a kind word for all. Many blessings to you all as your mourn your loss.
I was so very sorry to hear of Brenda’s passing. What a neat neat woman, and wonderful mom. I was Amy and Courtney’s babysitter for many years when they were very young. I wish I would have stayed in better touch with Brenda. Hugs and prayers to you all.
I’ve known Courtney for years but only had the pleasure of meeting Brenda once. But the crochet blanket, cloth story book, and ingeniously designed burp rags she made for my children are something I will cherish forever. Her family lost a wonderful woman but Heaven certainly gained an angel.
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