Sara Armstrong Obituary
Sara Helen Armstrong
Born: June 16, 1932 in Chicago, IL
Died: September 2, 2025 in Marquette, MI
Sara Helen Armstrong, or Sally as she was known by her family and friends, passed away on September 2, 2025 in Marquette, MI. She is survived by her two children, Kimiko Bostwick and Paul Spear and their two spouses, Todd Bostwick and Mariam Spear. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Alastair, Aurora and Phoebe Bostwick, and Jamal, Rohail and Aisha Spear; as well as her dear brother Army and sister-in-law Jody Armstrong, brother-in-law Tom Byrne; and cousin Max Wisgerhof and his wife Mary.
Sally was born June 16, 1932 in Chicago, IL. As a young girl her family moved to Downers Grove where she graduated from Downers Grove Highschool. She went on to graduate with a B.A. at Knox College and a Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota. She was a professor at Denver University in Colorado. While there she was involved with research that is now known as the Denver Development Test which is widely used in the health professions today. Sally, known as Dr. Armstrong, moved to Chico, CA and was a professor in the Psychology Department at California State University at Chico. After several promotions she ended her career as Vice Provost of CSUC.
Throughout Sally's life she was an avid reader and a strong proponent of education. She had a life long interest in gardening, a great respect for Japanese culture, an avid lover of dogs, and always wanted to go out for coffee with friends and family. Upon retirement she became involved with the League of Women Voters, Friends of the Library, and fundraising for the Torres Shelter in Chico. She thoroughly enjoyed her book clubs and wine groups. Even in her last years, when she found it difficult to read, she would carry a book around with her.
Perhaps Sally's greatest pleasure was spending time with her grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the Torres Shelter in Chico or Superiorland Pet Partners in Marquette.
Published by Suburban Life Publications from Oct. 2 to Oct. 9, 2025.