Sandra Kay Ensman

Sandra Kay (Duff) Ensman, 76, of Durango, Colorado, passed away on June 2, 2025. Born on August 5, 1948, in Shelby, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of Roy and Margaret (Wagner) Duff.

Sandra dedicated her life to caring for others, both professionally and personally. As a highly respected nurse practitioner, she devoted her later career to community health at Fort Carson, Colorado, where she made a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues.

A woman of remarkable strength and independence, Sandra held a black belt in taekwondo and had a deep love for the outdoors. She was an avid camper, hiker, and photographer who found great joy in nature and wildlife. She proudly hiked several of Colorado’s iconic fourteeners, capturing their beauty through her lens and sharing her adventures with those around her.

Sandra is survived by her daughter, Kristina Stillwaugh; her son-in-law, J. Lance Stillwaugh; and her grandchildren, Paige and Austin. She is also survived by her talented and beloved fur-baby, her dog Blondie Grace, a chihuahua mix who brought her endless joy and companionship. Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, but her life was rich with close friendships and meaningful connections.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 25th, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Hood Mortuary in Durango, Colorado. We invite out-of-town friends and relatives to spend the weekend in the mountains Sandra called home—surrounded by the natural beauty she so deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local animal rescue organization in her memory—honoring her lifelong love for animals and commitment to their care.

Sandra will be remembered for her compassionate spirit, fearless independence, and deep appreciation for the natural world. Her legacy lives on in those she inspired and the lives she touched.