Gudmund Sandsmark

It is with sadness that we announce the death of 90-year-old Gudmund Sandsmark also known as Grandpa Bess. On December 14, 2022, after hearing the hymn “Near My God to Thee,” Gudmund took his last breaths while surrounded by his loving family at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

He was born on August 24, 1932 in Heskestad Norway and at the age of 24 immigrated to Canada. After a short time in Victoria, British Columbia he met the love of his life, Solrun Dybdal, who was also a Norwegian but from Langevag, Norway. The two got married and had four sons, Roy, Wayne, Stephen and David, whom they raised on the Saanich Peninsula. Later, his family grew to include: 3 daughters-in-law, June, Cindy and Susan, 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

Gudmund lived an adventurous life that always centered around his family. He was a committed Christian and was involved in the church. He enjoyed 65 beautiful years of marriage to Solrun whom he was deeply committed to. It was not uncommon for Gudmund to profess his appreciation and immense love for her, especially later on in life. He loved being outdoors, camping, fishing and hunting. He spent every May Long weekend at Love Land Bay Campground with his family. You could hear the laughter and see the train of cars that lined both sides of Griggs Terrace every Sunday outside their home at lunch time. He was a compassionate man who did not like to see anything suffer and was an incredible role model for all. Gudmund has left a beautiful legacy behind and will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 2:30 pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC. We would like to invite people who knew dad to come and celebrate his life.

Condolences may be offered to the family below. To view service click on arrow below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com