Sandra "Sandy" Jane (Nelson) Blackledge

Sandra “Sandy” J. Nelson, formerly of Duluth, MN, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Cambridge, Minnesota. She was born on October 1, 1946, in Duluth, MN, to Edith and Edward Nelson.

Sandy graduated from Duluth East High School, and soon after, in 1966, married Keith Brubaker. Together, they welcomed one daughter. Keith’s life was tragically cut short, leaving Sandy to carry forward with resilience and strength.

In 1969, Sandy married Gerald “Jerry” Blackledge. They built a life together and had another daughter, eventually settling in Anoka, Minnesota, where they raised their family.

Sandy dedicated many years of service to the City of Champlin before pursuing higher education. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from St. Cloud State University and later her Master of Education from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. She went on to share her knowledge and passion for learning as a business teacher at Brooklyn Center High School.

Sandy later worked in accounting for the county of Aitkin and retired at the age of 62. Sandy and Jerry enjoyed time together at their lake home in Aitkin, Minnesota, creating many cherished memories, and spending their winters in Florida. Following Jerry’s passing, Sandy relocated to Bradenton, Florida, where she enjoyed the beautiful Florida weather, built friendships and generously volunteered her time at the Moose Lodge.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Edward Nelson; her first husband, Keith Brubaker; and her second husband, Gerald Blackledge.

Sandy is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Michele (Jim) Bergman and Sara (Cameo) Strong; her grandchildren, James (Hannah), Nicole (Colton), Alton, Ethan, and Kellan; her brothers, Tony Nelson and Keith Brubaker; and her sister, Donnell Brubaker.

Memorials preferred. Please do not order flowers because of family allergies.

A celebration of Sandy’s life will be held late July.

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