Sandra D. Dentinger

Sandra Diane Dentinger, affectionately known as Sandy, passed away on Saturday,
January 24, 2026, at the age of 69 in her Bellingham, Washington home, surrounded by
family. Born on December 29, 1956, in Castro Valley, California, to Charles Walter
Greene and Helen Doreen Randolph, Sandy lived a life filled with adventure, love, and
an unwavering spirit of generosity.

Sandy’s childhood was spent in Alamo, California, where she attended San Ramon
Valley High School. An avid athlete and trailblazer, she played on the boys’ water polo
team during the early days of Title IX and excelled as a swimmer, earning All-American
honors in seven events at the 1980 U.S. Nationals. Her academic journey took her to
UC Davis, where she earned a degree in Political Science, followed by a fellowship with
The CORO Foundation.

Her career began as a transportation lobbyist with Gerber and Associates in
Sacramento, later transitioning to roles with The CORO Foundation and U.S. Senator
Pete Wilson. Sandy’s professional path was marked by memorable moments, including
speaking at the dedication of Mt. Ansel Adams in Yosemite alongside Robert Redford.

In 1983, Sandy married Fred Dentinger, and in 1985 they moved to Bellingham to raise
their children. Sandy embraced part-time work and volunteerism allowing her to also
focus on her family, contributing to political campaigns, teaching CPR for the Red Cross,
and serving as an EMT with Fire District 4. Her adventurous spirit led her to drive buses
for WTA until health challenges arose.

Sandy’s zest for life extended to her hobbies: traveling, cycling (completing four Seattle-
to-Portland rides), skiing, sailing, camping, and volunteering with organizations like the
Assistance League of Bellingham. She cherished hosting exchange students and
creating unforgettable memories with her family.

Sandy is survived by her husband Fred; children David (Jamie Karlson) and Diane
(Brent Etzel); grandchildren Grant Etzel and Catalina Dentinger; brother George
Greene; niece Ashly Lueth; exchange children Carola and Juca Zonensein and Fredi
Nitsch; and their families.

Her adventurous spirit and kind heart will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by                                                                all who knew her.