Robert Alonzo "Lonnie" Sands

Robert Alonzo “Lonnie” Sands, 86, of Meriden, passed away January 11, 2023 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka.

Lonnie was born April 13, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of George Timothy Sands and Josephine (Austin) Sands. He graduated from Oskaloosa High School in 1954 and went on to serve in the United States Navy.

After his military career he went to the Spartan School of Aeronautics, where he obtained his A&P certification in Aviation Maintenance Technology. Lonnie's career in the aviation industry included working for TWA, Ozark Airlines, McDonnell Douglas, Meisinger Aviation, retiring from TAG Aviation as Head of Maintenance for corporate aircraft in 2002.

He adored his grandchildren, reciprocated unconditional love for his dogs, made daily trips to Starbucks, and took pride in tending to his immaculately kept yard.

He married Helen Irene Meyer on October 26, 1957, in Perry, Kansas. They celebrated their 65th anniversary this past fall. Helen survives of the home.

Other survivors include their children, Mike Sands and wife Erica of Ozawkie, Craig Sands of Kansas City, Missouri, Steve Sands and wife Claudette of Ozawkie, Todd Sands of McLouth, and Stacia Pfau and husband Jon of Ozawkie; son in law, Michael Berry; sister, Joan Hood of Topeka; grandchildren, Jessica McIntosh, Lindsay Robinson, Micaela Sands, Kristin Steenson, Karyn Shay, Ryan Berry, Shannon Berry, Lorraine Sands, Aidan Sands, Connor Sands, Tyler Sands, Josey Kueny, Cassidy Sands, Haley Kraxner, Braeden Pfau, and Jenna Pfau; as well as 11 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cynthia Berry; and grandson, Adam Sands.

The family will receive friends at 6:00pm, Monday, January 16, 2023, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Meriden, and a rosary will be prayed at 7:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00am, Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, followed by burial at St. Aloysius Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Jefferson County Humane Society, sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.