Memorial
Sandra “Sandy” Lee Frese, 90, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa died Monday, May 18, 2026, at Meth-Wick Community. Graveside services will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Deacon Rich Wallace, from St. Matthew Catholic Church, will officiate.
Sandy was born July 1, 1935, in Oakland, California, the daughter of Stanley and Ferne (Wingert) Burnett. Sandy was raised in Charles City until 1953, and then she moved to Cedar Rapids and worked for Rockwell Collins. Sandy was also employed with Sav-Half Greeting Cards in Marion and Yellow Book USA.
On February 19, 1955, Sandy married Ervin “Hooker” Frese in Cedar Rapids. Sandy was a charter member of the Eastern Iowa Heirloom Quilters Guild and bridge groups. Sandy volunteered at Mercy Hospital Gift Shop and the Women’s Center. Sandy enjoyed doing counted cross stitching and making quilts. These quilts became treasured gifts for family and friends.
Sandy is survived by a sister-in-law, Donna Frese, and granddaughters, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Ferne Burnett; her husband, Ervin “Hooker” Frese, in 2007; a son, Greg, in 2005; and a grandson, Greg Jr., in 1986.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.