PITTSFIELD, Mass. —  Peter Gerhard Sandstrom, born November 8, 1938, in New York City, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025 with his children by his side. He was the beloved son of Ruth Holton Sandstrom and Carl Johan Sandstrom and is predeceased by his beloved wife, Carol Anne Janssen, who passed away in 1992.

Peter was a proud graduate of the Bronx High School of Science and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Amherst College in 1960. He then completed his doctorate in philosophical theology from Yale University where he met Carol, whom he married on June 11, 1966. Peter’s academic career began in 1968 when he joined the faculty at Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas, where he taught philosophy and religion and, for many years, served as dean of the college. He later transitioned to teaching at the university’s campus in Overland Park, Kansas, where he inspired students and colleagues alike until his retirement.

In the Kansas City area, he built a rich life that revolved around colleagues from Ottawa University, friends from Colonial Church, and his partner of over 20 years, Linda Bray, whom he loved dearly and with whom he shared many adventures. In 2023, Peter moved to Pittsfield, Massachusetts to be closer to family. In Pittsfield, he lived at Berkshire Place, where he received loving care and attention from their wonderful staff who were quick to embrace his offbeat humor and generous spirit.

Among other things, Peter’s hobbies included cooking, photography, reading, and discussions with former colleagues. His passion for travel took him around the world but Pier Cove, Michigan, was his favorite place. He spent summers there as a child and loved sharing it with his children and grandchildren to whom he was devoted. He cherished his time with them – making up stories about “Ralph the Wonderdog,” taking them camping and sailing, walking the shores of Lake Michigan with them in search of lucky stones, and treating them to ice cream from “Charlie’s Round the Corner Ice Cream Shoppe.”

Peter is survived by his children, Rachel (Larry) Hoff of Seattle, WA, Nathanael Sandstrom of Pittsburgh, PA, and Noah (Marlene) Sandstrom of Williamstown, MA; his grandchildren, Theo, Emma, Ava, Sophie and Lili; and his siblings, David Sandstrom and Louisa Sandstrom Halfaker. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com