Longtime Eureka Resident Sandy Cofer Dies at 84

Cofer was known for her kindness, generosity, and involvement in the local community.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:56pm

An abstract, impressionistic scene of soft, blurred shapes and muted colors, evoking a sense of nostalgia and the comforts of home.The passing of a beloved community member like Sandy Cofer leaves an indelible mark on a small town like Eureka, where her warmth and generosity touched many lives over the decades.Vancouver Today

Sandra 'Sandy' Cofer, a longtime resident of Eureka, California, passed away on March 29, 2026, at the age of 84. Cofer was born in Lewiston, Idaho in 1941 and spent much of her life in Eureka, where she was actively involved in her local church and community. She is survived by her two daughters, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and other extended family members.

Why it matters

Cofer's passing marks the end of an era for Eureka's close-knit community, as she was known as a beloved and generous member who dedicated much of her life to serving others through her church and volunteer work. Her story reflects the changing demographics and community ties in the region over the past several decades.

The details

After graduating from Eureka High School in 1959, Cofer went on to meet her husband Larry at Humboldt State University. The couple married in 1962 and settled in Eureka, where Sandy worked as a phone operator for AT&T and later as a sales clerk at the local Rite Aid drugstore until her retirement in 2014. Throughout her life, Cofer was actively involved in her local Catholic church, teaching religious education classes and serving as a lector and catechist. She was also known for hosting large family gatherings and decorating her home for the holidays.

  • Cofer was born on April 18, 1941 in Lewiston, Idaho.
  • She graduated from Eureka High School in 1959.
  • Cofer married Larry Cofer on November 9, 1962 in Eureka.
  • Cofer's first daughter, Cindy, was born on June 13, 1966.
  • Cofer's second daughter, Pamela, was born three and a half years later.
  • Cofer and her family moved to McKinleyville in 1976.
  • Cofer worked as a sales clerk at Rite Aid until her retirement in 2014.
  • Cofer was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2016 and moved to Vancouver, Washington to be closer to family.
  • Cofer passed away on March 29, 2026 in Vancouver, Washington at the age of 84.

The players

Sandra 'Sandy' Cofer

A longtime resident of Eureka, California who was known for her kindness, generosity, and involvement in the local community through her church and volunteer work.

Larry Cofer

Cofer's husband, whom she met while attending Humboldt State University.

Cindy

Cofer's older daughter.

Pamela

Cofer's younger daughter.

Rene Daignault

Cofer's father.

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What’s next

A funeral service for Sandy Cofer will be held on April 17, 2026 at 9 a.m. at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Eureka, followed by a graveside service and a gathering at the parish hall.

The takeaway

Cofer's life and legacy reflect the close-knit community ties and enduring values that have defined Eureka for generations, even as the region has undergone significant demographic and economic changes over the decades. Her passing marks the end of an era for many longtime residents who remember her kindness, generosity, and dedication to her church and community.