Sandra Mae Valladao

Sandra Mae Gow was born on September 1st, 1944 in Merced, California, to Robert and Diane Gow. Sandra grew up in Merced and attended school where she met her best friend of 75 years Ruby and her family. She was a graduate of El Capitan High School.

In 1963 her family moved to a dairy farm in Atwater which happened to be across the street from Edward Valladao. As the story goes, Sandra asked him why he kept coming over and he said he was irrigating and had water rights through their property. Three months later they were married. Together for 45 years they farmed sweet potatoes, melons, and almonds and raised five boys.

Sandra loved her family. She adored her grandchildren. Sandra’s home was filled with photographs and trinkets that told stories of those she loved. She kept a welcoming home and was proud of her beautiful flowers, trees, and garden which surrounded her farm. She always looked forward to and enjoyed hosting holiday gatherings and Sunday dinners. In recent years she spent much of her time caring for her animals and enjoying sunsets. For those that knew her, she left lasting memories from her 81 years of life.

Sandra is survived by her sons Edward Valladao (Teresa), Raymond Valladao, Daniel Valladao, and Robert Valladao (Amy) all of Atwater. She is also survived by her ten grandchildren, sister and best friend Ruby Coburn, and too many cats to count.

Sandra was preceded in death by her husband Edward Vallado, her son Joseph Valladao, and her parents. Sandra will be missed by her family, friends, and her many kitties.

Services in her honor will be held at Wilson Family Funeral Chapel located at 1290 Winton Way in Atwater on Wednesday, December 17th at 11:00a.m. Burial will be at Winton Cemetery.

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