Sandra Joy Detmer, 63, of Oakdale died in her sleep on Tuesday, Aug. 17.

She was born in Hailey, Idaho. She lived in Oakdale for six years.

Many years ago, California became her home. She liked small towns and the large countryside of Oakdale was a good fit for her and she moved here in 2004.

Ms. Detmer was proud to say she was a Native American, a member of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa from Montana. Her passion included anything to do with her heritage. She often went on retreats to learn more about herself and her heritage and would return inspired to learn more.

Her greatest achievement was when she graduated from Modesto Junior College at age 56 with an Associate of Arts Degree.

She loved horses and animals from an early age and was always surrounded by animals.

She is survived by her children, Anita (Richard) Chapa, Laura (Dave) Daley, Matthew Detmer; and six grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her sons, Donald Detmer and Les Detmer, Jr.

Private family service.