Michele Sandecki

Michele Sandecki of Pasadena California was born on May 07, 1959, in Los Angeles California, to Andre and Audrey Houlemard, and passed away January 26, 2026. She is predeceased by her parents, and her loving sister, Janis Mercado. Michele is survived by her sisters, Renee Houlemard and Kimberly Hantman, her nephew, Andrew Hantman and her niece, Katherine Hantman.

Michele earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology, from the California State University at Los Angeles, where she was inducted into the Golden Key Honor Society for high academic achievement.  Though retired for the last four years, Michele was employed the California Department of Insurance, prior to that she worked for the state reviewing requests for disability.  But Michele was so much more than that. She was a gifted artist, was fluent in Spanish, and most importantly, a cherished sister, aunt and friend, who was well-loved by a great many people.  As an avid reader she loved going to Vroman's Bookstore to meet her favorite authors, especially Michael Crichton.   

She spent the few years she had of retirement, taking classes at the Pasadena Armory, and volunteering to help 1st graders with reading at Hamiliton Elementary. She also spent a great deal of her time protesting, writing letters and showing up to support candidates, from local to presidential. She met many of the people whose worked she followed and admired, including Bill Clinton, Gore Vidal and Gloria Steinem.  However, her most exciting moment was definitely waving to President Barack Obama from her office building.

To say she will be missed, does not cover the immense pain we are in. She was everything to us, and going on without her laughter, her counsel, and her love, is the hardest thing we will have to do. Her family would be grateful if you would keep us in your thoughts. 

Her service will be held on Friday, February 20, at the Pasadena Buddhist Temple at 12:15, followed by a reception at The Huntington Library. Please feel free to reach out to Renee Houlemard, (626) 319-1347, by February 15 if you would like to attend

Arrangements are under the care of Douglass & Zook Funeral and Cremation Services, Monrovia, CA.