October 13, 1989 – October 16, 2020

We have some very sad news to share with our readers: Sarah Hansel, an award-winning former art director at SN&R, died last week.

Here is the obituary from her family:

Sarah passed away at the age of 31 on Oct. 16, 2020, surrounded by the comfort and love of her husband, sister, and parents.

She loved art, nature, literature, animals and all of her many friends and family members who had the opportunity to share their lives with her.

Sarah was born and raised in Sacramento and attended C.K. McClatchy High School, where she grew close with many of her dearest lifelong friends. She later graduated from UC Davis with a bachelor’s degree in English and Women’s Studies.

She went on to work as a graphic designer and art director at Sacramento News & Review, and spent her free time gardening, illustrating and volunteering with the Sacramento SPCA.

Sarah is survived by her husband and partner of 10 years, John Blake; her twin sister, Kristin Hansel; her parents, Kate Williams and Peter Hansel; her step-parents, Tom Gohring and Debbie Vorous; her step-siblings, Tristan Gohring, Ashley Gohring, Caroline Gohring Alanna Vourous and Jeanette Vorous; her two beloved dogs, Vontae and Jenny; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Sarah will forever be remembered for her loving, gentle and compassionate spirit, and the warmth she shared with everyone she encountered.

A celebration of Sarah’s life will be held at a private ceremony in early November.

To help honor Sarah’s memory, please consider making a donation to the Sacramento SPCA or Effie Yeaw Nature Center.