Thomas Edward Sandquist

Thomas Edward Sandquist, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 after a life defined by hard work, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family.

Born on January 22, 1941, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Tom was the fourth of eight children of Harold Sandquist and Dona Belle (Sanders) Sandquist. He grew up in Woods Cross and Bountiful, Utah, where he learned the value of hard work at an early age, joining local farm crews as young as six. That dedication would remain a defining trait throughout his life.

Tom's childhood was shaped by both hardship and resilience. After time in foster care with Art and Ella Hansen—whom he loved dearly—he found stability and fond memories that stayed with him always. His upbringing instilled in him a fierce work ethic, a sense of adventure, and an appreciation for life’s small blessings.

A proud alumnus of Granger High School, Tom was a talented athlete who achieved the title of Utah State High School Wrestling Champion. His love of sports continued throughout his life—he qualified for and ran the Boston Marathon, and played left field for an all-star softball team.

In high school, Tom met the love of his life, Sharron Hickman. Theirs was a true love story—starting with a football game and a red-headed crush, and blossoming into a 65-year marriage filled with laughter, faith, and partnership. Together, they built a life centered on family, adventure, and devotion to one another.

Tom and Sharron were blessed with four children: Wendy, Steve, Larry, and David. They also experienced the loss of two infants, which shaped their spiritual strength and family bonds. Tom was deeply proud of his children and their accomplishments in education and service. The family legacy has grown to include 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tom served in many callings, including as bishop, where his compassion and leadership touched countless lives. He and Sharron served three full-time missions together—in Australia, Texas, and as MLS missionaries—each an expression of their shared commitment to faith and service.

Professionally and personally, Tom’s drive and character earned him respect. He was known for his reliability, sense of humor, and his love for storytelling. In the 1960s, he and his brother-in-law were part of a band, The Starks, which had three songs on the radio. Although they had an opportunity to tour and sign with Capitol Records, Tom chose his growing family over fame—one of many examples of his unwavering priorities.

Tom loved to travel with Sharron, enjoying over 20 cruises and seeing the world—especially Italy and Tahiti. They were also known to win the occasional dance contest and participate in community plays. Together, they built not just a home, but a family rich with love, laughter, and traditions—from Thanksgiving dinners hosted in their Riverton basement to waffle breakfasts every Christmas morning at their daughter’s home.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings Don, Mike, Fred, Ray, and Mary, and his two infant children. He is survived by his devoted wife Sharron; children Wendy (Karl), Steve (Lori), Larry, and David (Krista); siblings Randy, and Bonnie; 14 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Tom Sandquist lived a remarkable life of integrity, love, and service. He was a man who remembered every kindness, forgave quickly, worked diligently, and loved fiercely. His legacy is not only in the memories he leaves behind, but in the family he built, the faith he lived, and the many lives he touched.