Remembering Sandra Buffone
On April 20, 2024, Thunder Bay, Ontario, lost a beloved member of its community, Sandra Buffone. At the age of 57, Sandra passed away peacefully at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre after a courageous battle with ALS, surrounded by her loving family.
Early Life and Family
Born on April 13, 1967, Sandra was the youngest child of Maria and Giuseppe Floreancig, hardworking immigrants who instilled in her the values of love, resilience, and family devotion. Growing up alongside her older siblings, Irene and Albert, Sandra’s childhood was filled with laughter, Italian music, and the warmth of family gatherings. Her strong, witty, and playful nature was shaped by these formative experiences.
Education and Career
Sandra’s passion for learning led her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in French and Spanish at Lakehead University. Her love for languages proved invaluable in her role at Service Ontario’s Office of the Registrar General. As a dedicated employee, she formed meaningful friendships and found joy in simple moments, like watching the sunrise over the Sleeping Giant from her office window.
Love and Family Life
In 1980, Sandra met Peter Buffone, who would become the love of her life and her lifelong partner. Together, they built a loving home on Nottingham Crescent, filled with shared adventures, movie nights, and family traditions. Their marriage was blessed with three children, Janessa, Jackson, and Maxwell, who became the center of Sandra’s world. She was a devoted mother, cheering her children on at dance recitals and hockey games, and building close friendships with the other “Dance Moms” she met along the way.
Passion for Fashion and Community Spirit
Sandra’s flair for fashion was legendary among her family and friends. From her early days as a model to her lifelong love of stylish clothing, Sandra’s elegance and sophistication were evident in every outfit she wore. Beyond her personal pursuits, she had a heart for giving back. Sandra was deeply involved in her community, spearheading fundraisers, supporting local charities, and lending a helping hand to anyone in need.
Health Journey and Legacy
In her final years, Sandra faced her ALS diagnosis with immense courage and grace. Her mornings often began with a 6 a.m. workout at RED ZONE, where she found strength and support from her close-knit group of friends. Even as her condition progressed, she continued to care for her family, prepare meals, and nurture the bonds that meant so much to her.
Sandra’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre who provided her with compassionate care. Special thanks go to family friend Crystal Danko, who supported Sandra during her most challenging days.
Survived by Loved Ones
Sandra’s legacy lives on through her husband Peter and their children Janessa (Blake), Jackson, and Maxwell. She is also survived by her mother Maria, brother Albert Floreancig (Paula) and their children Dustin and Chelsea, and sister Irene Lacaria (Tony) and their children Bruno (Ashley), Joey (Julie), Anthony (Nancy), and Michael (Carliegh). Sandra’s extended family includes sisters-in-law Filomena Gregorash (Bill) and Alma Provenzano (Tullio), along with their children Athena (Mitch) and Valena. She was predeceased by her father Giuseppe and in-laws Irma and Valentino Buffone.
Funeral Services and Tributes
Friends and family will gather to honor Sandra’s life on April 24, 2024, at St. Anthony’s R.C. Church in Thunder Bay. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:30 p.m., celebrated by Fr. Luigi Filippini. A private entombment will follow at St. Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery. The Mass will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Canadian ALS Society or the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation’s Intensive Care Unit. These organizations provided invaluable support and care during Sandra’s journey with ALS.
Sandra Buffone’s love, laughter, and light will continue to inspire her family, friends, and the community she cherished. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
