Sandra Lee (Behnke) Monville, 62, of Ontonagon, MI, passed away unexpectedly on July 7, 2024, at her home in Ontonagon.

Sandy was born in Menominee, MI to Thomas and Jeanene (Picotte) Behnke on August 2, 1961.  She graduated from Ontonagon Area High School and completed some college at Northern Michigan University and Gogebic Community College. Sandy was united in marriage to John Monville, on July 5, 2008 in Ontonagon, MI.

Sandy held a variety of jobs including managing editor of the Lake Superior Voice, Walgreens and was a caretaker for home health. But she always said her most important and fulfilling job was raising her daughter and instilling in her a love of nature. Sandy had a zest for life and adventure. Her outgoing personality and bright smile allowed her to make friends easily. With Sandy, you were only a stranger once. Her passions included wildlife photography, trivia, advocating for wildlife and helping those in need. In all kinds of weather, Sandy could be found searching for lost pets or rescuing a critter.

Sandy is survived by her beloved husband of 16 years John Monville, her daughter Ashley (Anthony) Hamel and her brother Michael Behnke. Sandy's stepchildren Rodney Monville, Cody Monville and Amy Monville.

She was preceded in death by her mother Jeanene Behnke, her father Thomas Behnke and her brother Danny Behnke.

The burial ceremony will be held on July 12, 2024, at 11am at Green Cemetery on the Townline Road in Ontonagon. Immediately following the graveside services, all are invited to a celebration of life and luncheon at the home of her cousin JoEllen Howard (23940 W. St. Highway M64).

Memorials may be given to John Monville, Ashley Hamel and Michael Behnke. Donations in Sandy's name can be made to OCAP https://www.ocappaws.org/donate.html or Yellowstone Forever https://www.yellowstone.org/

Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

OCAP
19504 State Hwy M-38, Ontonagon MI 49953
Tel: 1-906-884-2500

Yellowstone Forever
PO Box 1857, Bozeman MT 59771-1857
Tel: 1-406-848-2400
Web: https://www.yellowstone.org/