SANDRA (SANI) LYNN PAYNE

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Sandra (Sani) Lynn Payne was born on August 22, 1965, in Stettler Alberta to Stan and Aileen Payne.

Sandra was born with challenges that many of us would find daunting. She was raised in an era when someone with her disabilities was often placed in an institution, but for her and her family that was not an option. Sandra, with the support of her family, met these challenges head on and lived a full, happy life of love and laughter.

She eventually took up a weekly residence in Camrose Alberta, attending a program there and returning home on weekends.

In 1968 she welcomed her brother, Murray and another brother, Michael, in 1971. Sandra was fully engaged, offering care, love and protection to her little brothers.

The family moved to Brooks Alberta in 1972, where Sandra led an active life. She began a new facet in her life when she began boarding in Medicine Hat Alberta and going to school. She enjoyed school activities but was happy to see her family on weekends and going camping and going swimming.

Once again, she moved with her family to Calgary Alberta in 1977, where she lived at home and enjoyed activities in her neighbourhood and attending her new school.

In 1983, the family moved to Winnipeg and again Sandra was able to live at home and attend school. In 1989 she joined the DASCH day program after aging out of the school system. She loved her life and the people at the day program. She moved into the DASCH group home in 1997. On being introduced to her new roommates and staff she happily said “I’m Here.”

Her new home became her new life and second family. Her support workers have been there for her for many, many years. Because of physical difficulties she eventually was required to be in a wheelchair. Even with this restriction she was a happy individual. She lived a full life finding enjoyment in her relationships, shopping, theatre, movies, videos and music.

On January 10, 2026, suddenly Sandra took a turn for the worst and passed away leaving her family and loved ones saddened and shocked. She is survived by her Mom and Dad; her brothers, Murray and Michael; Niece Bailie, (Jon) Archer and Everett, and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins spread over a large geographical area.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipeg, 603 Wellington Crescent.

On behalf of our family, we sincerely thank the DASCH organization and particularly Kerri and the staff at Batchelor House. Donations in memory of Sandra may be made to DASCH Foundation, 1605 Buffalo Place, Winnipeg, MB R3T 6J8 or https://www.dasch.mb.ca/foundation/.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

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204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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