Sandra M. Schatsiek, 69, of Washington, Ill., passed away on Friday, Aug. 5 in Peoria, surrounded by her loving family.

Born June 24, 1953, in Peoria, Ill., she was the first of two children of James and Mary Alice (Neavill) Zikus. She married Mark Schatsiek on May 25, 1985, at Wildlife Prairie Park. He survives in Washington.

She was preceded in death by her father, and her "sister from another mister" Marla Risley.

She is survived by her mother, Mary Alice; her sister, Susan (Jack) Gilles; her son, Brandon (Sarah) Schatsiek; step-daughter, Christina Schatsiek; grandson, Roger Norris; and several nieces and nephews.

Sandra worked in the A/V department at Illinois Central College for more than 25 years. She was known for her two green thumbs, her collection of Clothtique Santa Clauses, and the "only car she ever loved," her 2006 Chrysler Crossfire.

The visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. A celebration of life will be held at the East Peoria Boat Club from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14.

In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to the American Cancer Society or the ASPCA.