Obituary of LaRue Grace Ashens

After an extended illness LaRue Grace (Sandhagen) Ashens died at her home June 16, 2016. LaRue, better known as, Sandy, was born September 14, 1922 in Waterloo, Iowa to Carl and Grace (Ward) Sandhagen. The family moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where Sandy graduated from high school in 1941. Her father bough Orange Groves in McAllen, Texas in 1941 and the family moved there, where Sandy worked in the Benson family business office. When World War II broke out and labor help became scarce, her father sold the Orange Groves and the family moved back to the mid-west, in Coffeyville, Kansas, where father and daughter worked at the Coffeyville Airbase. Sandy worked at the Independence Airbase, Sinclair and the Coffeyville Refinery. She retired from the refinery after 43 years of service. Sandy met her future husband, Joseph Ashens at the Independence Airbase where they both worked. On October 10, 1990 the two were united in marriage in Miami, Oklahoma. They spent 70 wonderful years together. They traveled to Colorado, Kimberly City, Grove, Ozark Mountain and Eureka Springs with their dog. Sandy is survived by her husband, Joseph of the home; many close friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Marvel. Cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes funeral home of Coffeyville. Graveside Memorial service was held on Wednesday June 22, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. at Restlawn Cemetery in Coffeyville. The family suggests contributions can be made to the Salvation Army and can be left at the funeral home or mailed to David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 N. Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337. Arrangements are being handled by David W. Barnes Funeral Home.