July 26, 1991 – November 16, 2003
Tucson, Arizona
Some people come into our lives and quickly go, others stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never, ever the same.
Andy loved going to school. He attended Quail Run Elementary where Mrs. Holt, Myrna and Teresa were his teachers, and Katie was his girlfriend. He rode bus 106. Jim and Hal, the bus driver and attendant, were his surrogate grandpas. Hal called Andy “Hollywood.”
Chris Gran was Andy’s caregiver. She also was his friend, and will always be considered part of our family.
His nickname at home was “Rooney.” His favorite toys were his penguin he named Martin, and bunny rabbit. He loved the Disney channel, music, animals and the color green. I always said that if he could pick a career, he would work at Sea World with the dolphins or penguins. In 2002, Make-a-Wish fulfilled his dream of petting a penguin with a trip to Orlando, Florida. It was an awesome week and we will always treasure the memories.
Andy was not only our son but also our teacher and our best friend. He touched many people in his short life. He had an infectious smile and a personality to match. He taught us unconditional love and what truly matters in life. From him we learned this: Don’t take the time you have with your children for granted. Don’t pass up the chance to hold them, to tell them you love them. Make the most of every second.
Andy left a huge hole that will never be filled. But he forever changed our lives in just the short time he was with us. Thank you, Andy.
Love,
Mom, Dad and Christine
