Andy's Rose: May He Rest In Peace
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.
= new reply since forum marked as read
Thank you, Dear Peggy, for letting us know that he has passed, and for telling us more about him as you have actually met him. There is almost always a dark moment when someone you know of or are acquainted with passes, but your tribute makes clear that he would not want us to be sad and miserable. He celebrated life as he saw best and it served him well, it seems. I am good with knowing that and that his passing was anticipated and accepted.
I will miss his contributions to the photography group, he was a good photographer.
When it's my day, I just don't want to be scared.
Such a talented guy--always willing to teach about photography. He will be missed.
Honestly, this is so shocking that I can't quite come up with everything I want to say but this saddens me greatly. Be at peace AndyS. I won't forget you.
thank you, Peggy, for this remembrance. Sad, but nice... 
to you.
I had a lot of respect for Andy. I will miss his posts and comments on DU.
I have no words…
as well as the sweet, touching photos in the other thread at https://www.democraticunderground.com/1036124269 .
I'm so sorry to read this! Wishing peace and healing to Andy's family and all who cared for him.
I knew he hadn't been well, but had no idea how serious it was or that his disease progressed so quickly.
Thank you for writing such a lovely tribute to him. He will surely be missed.
So sorry to hear this, but I would also choose not to linger, rather to "let it all go." Andy will be greatly missed here, but I think he had a rewarding & full life. R.I.P. sir...
You will be missed.
Andy had such a generous spirit, especially with photography and cooking.
Rest in Power, Andy.
Sweet Shalom to all who mourn his passing.
🕊thatcrowwoman
Last edited Sat Dec 16, 2023, 01:58 PM - Edit history (1)
I have made many good friends here in the Photography forum on DU, but I have only had the pleasure of meeting two of you in person, the wonderful CaliforniaPeggy and her dear friend AndyS. I had the good fortune to spend an afternoon with both of them during Covid. We had a great lunch at a Mexican restaurant followed by a grand photo expedition around the Palos Verdes Peninsula. . I had hoped to go shooting with Andy again this past summer, but his shoulder injury made that impossible.
Andy and I did converse quite often through DMs, and we had a lengthy telephone conversation just this past October. You may recall my recent post and poll concerning the size and dimension limits for the monthly contests. To be honest, that post was probably about seventy percent AndyS and thirty percent Grumpy Old Guy. We both felt the same way about the existing rules, but he was probably much more adamant about getting them changed than I was. He had several points he wanted to raise with the forum members, and I added in some of my own. We agreed on everything. I think he wanted to post the poll himself, but he just didn't feel up to the task, no doubt because of his recurring health issues. He asked me to take it on, and I was glad to do so. Unfortunately, it took me about three or four weeks to get the job done, but eventually I did. He was remarkably patient about it.
Never once during that conversation did I get the feeling that Andy's days on this Earth were numbered. He seemed upbeat and resolute about his many health issues, and was just patiently trying to get through it all.
I have been taking pictures for well over fifty years, getting my start in the mid to late sixties. I know a lot about photography, but I was constantly impressed with Andy's skill and knowledge. Andy could "get in the weeds" when discussing any aspect about photography. He was equally adept at the science, theory and artistry involved. I learned a few things from him, and I'd like to think that maybe he picked up something from me as well. I doubt it, but hey, it's wishful thinking.
I know he was as knowledgeable about firearms and their use as well, although I think he had left area of his life behind him.
He was a good man, principled, honest, and dedicated to his craft. He will be missed.
It's really hard for me to comprehend that he's really gone. And it's going to take a long time before any grief eases.
My heart is full of all the great times and conversations.