Andy's Rose: May He Rest In Peace

[CaliforniaPeggy]

I got word today from Andy’s ex-wife Lynn, that he had died early this morning at 0730 Central time, in Fort Worth, Texas. The news was not unexpected; he’d been in a deepening coma for about 2 weeks. He’d been transferred to a hospice when it was discovered that he had terminal cancer, along with cirrhosis of the liver. He’d made it abundantly clear that he did not want any measures taken, even if they would have possibly given him more time. He’d told me, months ago, before we had known that any of this was in the works, that he was ready to go. That was his way. Live life to the fullest and then let it all go. He was being true to himself.

So we could linger over this, and cry and mourn his abrupt loss, or we can accept that this was who he was, and accept his point of view. I choose to accept it, and I hope that all of the folks who loved and cared for him, as well as those who did not, can accept it.

Let us remember him in his vigorous time of life, for that was when he was most alive. He was passionate about so much! To be sure, guns, and photography, cooking, talking about all of these. He was super knowledgeable about a variety of topics. His mind was inquisitive and open. Long ago, his Dad had told him “Keep your mind open, son. People will come along and drop interesting things in it.” He did that and that let him become a liberal Democrat, the only one in his family of origin. He could be stubborn, oh could he! And charming. He knew how to become part of the group. He was quick to make friends. He had a full-throated laugh, as well as a quiet chuckle that let you know you’d tickled his funny bone. He was generous and caring. If he’d seen something that he thought you’d like, he’d buy it for you.

He loved to sail and had a sailboat for a number of years. He loved riding his motorcycle and rode it till his back stopped him. Most of his jobs centered on Olympus cameras: selling them, being a field representative and like that. He liked being busy but he also craved some ‘down time.’

During the time I knew him, photography was the big hobby. He often carried a camera ‘just in case.’ He was a terrific teacher, although he could be impatient. He knew what he was talking about and he cared intensely about it. And he wanted everyone who could hear him to get it and to care.

He was a bundle of energy, of enthusiasm, of passion. He was going, going, going and he loved it. And he was most happy with people who saw life the way he did. I saw a lot of validation in his every-day life. He wanted to be happy along with those around him.

This is a pale reflection of who Andy truly was. Bid him farewell with whatever thoughts work for you. For me, knowing that he loved being a sailor with a boat, I wish him Fair Winds and Following Seas .Wherever you’ve gone, dear Andy, may it be all that you wish for.

We will miss you forever.