Sandra Lea Biernacki

Sandra “Grandma Bear” Lea (Smith) Biernacki, 64, of Timken, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born August 8, 1962, in Miami, Oklahoma, to John and Helen (Baier) Smith.

Sandy grew up across both Kansas and Oklahoma, ultimately graduating from Garden City High School. Described as an altruistic soul who was intrinsically motivated to accomplish any task at hand, Sandy worked full-time while taking on various side jobs, such as mowing, roofing, apartment maintenance, and tree work. A core memory of hers was lumberjacking with her dad—a passion she later shared with her sons on evenings and weekends. Often seen with a Marlboro Red in one hand and a Mountain Dew in the other, she was known to outwork any man. She enjoyed fishing, coaching her kids' Little League teams, and living the country life, as well as relaxing while watching the Hallmark Channel and Murder, She Wrote.

Sandy knew no strangers; she was a bonus mom to many and a true friend to all. Soft-spoken, compassionate, and unconditionally loving, she never had a bad word to say about anyone. If you were ever in need, Sandy was there. Above all, she was fiercely proud of her four boys and cherished her grandchildren immensely.

Sandy is survived by her children and their families: Tyler Biernacki and his wife Janae, along with grandchildren Benton and Elsie, all of Garden City; Andrew Biernacki and granddaughter Rylee of Timken, KS; Colby Biernacki of Garden City; and Kelly Biernacki and granddaughter Skylar of Lawrence, KS. She is also survived by her husband, Steve Boone, of Timken; and her sisters, Kaye Garbers of Garden City, Pamela Birgenheier of Tacoma, WA, and Linda Smith of Overland Park, KS.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; grandson, Declan Biernacki; and half-brother, Joe Clement.

Per her wishes, Sandy will be cremated, and no funeral or memorial service will be held.

In Sandy’s memory, call someone you love today to tell them, “I was just calling to say I love ya and was thinking about ya.” Her family respectfully declines flowers and suggests that monetary donations are not necessary. Should you still wish to give a monetary gift, contributions will be used toward a future family gathering to celebrate her life.

Please share memories on Sandra’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes - La Crosse Chapel 611 Peace Street La Crosse, KS 67548