Obituary
Sandra Helene (Applebaum) Friedman, of Vernon Hills, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, following a recent diagnosis of bile duct cancer. She was born May 25, 1948, to the late Ruben and Sylvia (Franklin) Applebaum in Memphis, TN. Sandra was the middle of three children, growing up with her brother Allen and sister Randie.
Sandra was a devoted mother, Bubbe, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth, strength, and caring spirit touched everyone who knew her. Family was the center of her life, and she took immense pride in the people she loved most. Her career spanned a range of supporting roles in banking, education administration, retail, music, corporate law, and more. Amongst all that, she also made a fine chocolatier from her home workshop, Candi by Sandi.
She is survived by her loving children, Eric (Sandra) Friedman of Palatine and Stacey (Rob) Wolfe of Highland Park; her cherished grandchildren, Ryan Friedman, Emma Friedman, Sam Wolfe, Josie Wolfe, and Hank Wolfe; and her brother, Allen (Phyllis) Applebaum of Houston, TX. Sandra was preceded in death earlier this year by her beloved sister, Randie (Applebaum) Breland of Dallas, TX
.
Sandra will be remembered for her love of family, her generous heart, her enjoyment of a good game night, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her memory will forever remain a blessing to all who knew and loved her. Volunteerism was also important to Sandra. It was her wish for donations to be made to the American Cancer Society in her memory, a cause remaining near to her heart since losing her mother to cancer several decades ago, www.cancer.org. Graveside service, Monday, May 11, 2026; 3 PM at Shalom Memorial Park 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL. For the link to view the service, shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.