Obituary for Loren Ray Sands

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandpa and great grandpa and friends to many.

Loren Ray Sands was born December 28,1951 in Independence, Iowa to Rodger and Alice (Mcquire) Sands. He attended North Linn High School, graduating in 1970. He worked in several trades across the country and eventually retired from PMX Industries in 2012 at Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  

In August of  2007, he was united in marriage to Katherine Kaefring at the Wedding Chapel in Cedar Rapids.

In addition to his wife Kathy he is survived by their children:  Traci (Robbie) Wilson  of Center Point; his son, Connor Sands of Center Point; daughter, Amanda Kaefring of Cedar Rapids and his son, Jeremy (Maranda) Kaefring of Walford; three grandsons, Garrett (Mataya) Betenbender of Center Point, Nathan Wilson of Center Point, Greyson Kaefring of Walford and a granddaughter, Sylvie Kaefring of Walford and two great granddaughters, Haevyn and Everly Lou Betenbender of Center Point.
His living sibling include a brother, Larry Bisig of Coggan; two sisters, Linda Brunsheen of Solon and  Cretia Santee of Cedar Rapids along with his many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He was a very proud Steward in UAW 1024 believing that everyone should be treated fairly no matter what side of the fence they were on. He loved to read, watch movies and digging in the dirt. His two favorite teams were the St Louis Cardinals and the Iowa Hawkeyes. He devoted his time to his family and traveling with his wife.

He recently was admitted to Hospice at home to be with his wife and their two “boys” Albert and Brody who were his fur babies.

A celebration of life will be held at the UAW 1024 Union Hall (619 20th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids) on April 19, 2026, from 1-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the family or directly to the UAW.

His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support touched the lives of all who knew him. We will cherish his memory forever, holding close the laughter and love he brought into our lives. May he rest in peace.