Andrew H. Sipple

Andrew H. Sipple, 22, died on January 17, 2014 while serving his country in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Andrew was born on September 25, 1991 in Durham, NC and was raised in Cary, NC. He was the oldest child of Steven H. and Beth M. (Hassett) Sipple. In addition to his loving parents, he is survived by his cherished sister and brothers, Katherine M., Benjamin T. and Jacob S. Sipple. Andrew is also survived by his paternal grandmother, Ruth E. (Bunting) Sipple, of Raleigh, NC and his maternal grandmother, Diane B. (Ramsbotham) Hassett, of Fairhaven, MA and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Joseph H. Sipple, Jr. and his maternal grandfather, David J. Hassett.

Andrew entered active duty with the U.S. Army in April 2010. He was most recently assigned to the Cobra Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, TX. He served his country during Operation New Dawn, Iraq, 2011 and Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan, 2013-2014. Andrew's awards and decorations included the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with campaign star, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and NATO Medal.

Most importantly, Andrew will be remembered for his kind and gentle heart. He was a quiet, thoughtful, and humble man who had sincere compassion for all. Andrew was brilliant and athletic and had an extremely sharp, intellectual wit. His smile was magical. His heart was huge.

Family will receive relatives and friends Tuesday evening, January 28, 2014 from 6 to 8 PM at Apex Funeral Home, 550 West Williams St. Apex. A celebration of Andrew's life and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, Andrew's family would sincerely appreciate donations to the Fisher House Foundation (fisherhouse.org), an organization that supports families of the fallen and injured soldiers or Activate Good (activategood.org), an organization that supports a wide range of charitable causes in our local community.