Sarah Anne (Toburen) Lindblad, 85, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, in Lindsborg, Kansas.  Born on June 9, 1939, in Orlando, Oklahoma, Sarah grew up in a home filled with faith as the daughter of a preacher. Her upbringing instilled in her a deep love for the church and a steadfast devotion to her beliefs. Her faith provided strength during difficult times, moments of joyous celebration, and a sense of community throughout it all.

Sarah dedicated her life to teaching and nurturing young minds. She began her career at Grace E. Stewart Elementary School, where she taught until the birth of her second child, Jason. Later, when her daughter Jenny was in school, she returned to teaching at Southeast of Saline, where she remained until her retirement. She was a beloved educator who touched the lives of countless students and fellow teachers with her kindness and passion for learning.

Music was an integral part of Sarah’s life. She was an active choir member throughout college at Kansas Wesleyan University and carried that love forward by leading children’s choirs in Sunday school and Bible school. She also directed and participated in the adult church choir, sharing her gift of music with those around her.

Sarah’s warmth and generosity were evident in every aspect of her life. She radiated kindness with a beautiful smile and was always ready to offer one of her famous hugs. The friendships she formed were abundant. There were very few things she valued more than the love of her friends.

She is survived by her daughter Jenny Casey and son-in-law Tom; cherished grandsons Caleb and Joshua; as well as her in-laws Winona, Dodie, Shirley, and David, along with several nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, James Lindblad; son Jason Lindblad; parents Les Toburen and Lily (Mengedoth) Toburen; stepmother Cecil Toburen; and brothers Gerald (Toby) and Les Jr.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 15, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W First St., Assaria, Kansas. A light meal will be served in the community life room following the service, with a private interment to follow.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Sarah’s memory are encouraged to share a smile with a stranger, embrace loved ones with a warm hug, support a teacher by providing classroom supplies or books, play a song that touches the soul, plant something beautiful in her honor, or worship in whatever way brings peace—just as Sarah would have wanted. Donations may also be made in her honor to Assaria Lutheran Church or the KWU Philharmonic Choir.

Sarah’s legacy of love, faith, and kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.