Half of a long-time Tri-Cities music duo has died at 91

Jean Sands, who with her late husband Victor formed a lasting musical power duo in the Tri-Cities, died Thursday in Richland.

She was 91 and had lived in the Tri-Cities for 68 years.

She was born Jean Olson in Metamora, Mich., and married Victor Sands on Christmas Day 1953.

The couple moved to Kennewick two years later and would play an enduring role as music educators, as well as members of the Mid-Columbia Symphony.

The couple celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary in 2017, two days before his death.

Victor taught in the Kennewick School District for 34 years and both were 50-year members of the symphony.

Jean played oboe. Victor played viola.

Both taught private music lessons, including to their four children, Connie, Kathy, Laura and Glen.

In addition to her children, Jean is survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mueller’s Tri-Cities Funeral Home, Kennewick, is handling her services at 1:30 p.m., March 13, at Westside Church in Richland.

This story was originally published March 1, 2023 at 5:00 AM.