Sally Elizabeth (Seaman) Sauer , age 86, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

Born on September 22, 1938 in Jackson, MI and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Sally graduated from Ottawa Hills High School in 1956 and earned her BA/BS degree in Business and Marketing from Miami University of Ohio in 1960. Her professional life was as dynamic as her spirit—she served as Registrar at Kendall College of Art and Design, worked with student services at Davenport University, and also co-owned an Anderson window business, bringing her trademark energy and warmth to every endeavor.

Sally was a woman of many talents and passions. She was a gifted painter, a music enthusiast who recorded several pieces, and an avid athlete—teaching ice skating, playing tennis, softball and golf, skiing downhill, and never turning down a good game of cribbage. She had a deep fondness for the water and often spent summer months sailing. She loved sports of all kinds, especially college football and the NFL, and approached life with the same enthusiasm she brought to the field. Her heart was just as full off the field, especially when it came to the dogs who brought her quiet joy and loyal companionship.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A strong Christian woman, Sally had a deeply personal relationship with Jesus and lived out her beliefs through kindness, empathy, and an ever-present smile. She was bubbly, curious, welcoming, and radiated positivity to all who knew her.

Sally gave generously of her time and heart. She volunteered at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, where she was honored as "Volunteer of the Year," and served as an ambassador to new residents at Beacon Hill at Eastgate, helping others feel at home with her signature warmth.

She is preceded in death by her former husband and dear friend, Fred Sauer; her parents, Joseph L. and Faye (Cochran) Seaman; her brother-in-law, Richard Mattern; and her nephew, Russel Mattern.

Sally is survived by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary Jo (Dan) Flory of Sarasota, FL, and Ann Clark (Tom) O'Donovan of Vero Beach, FL; nieces and nephews, Lynn (Brian) Mattern and Jill (Kent) Busman; great-nieces and great-nephews, Maggie (Jason), Betsy, Molly, Noah, Hannah, and Lilly; and great-great-nephew, Isaac.

A memorial service and celebration of Sally's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, in the Auditorium at Beacon Hill at Eastgate (1919 Boston St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506). Her family will greet visitors from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Free Bed Foundation .