Andrew John Hanzel

Andrew John “Andy” Hanzel, 76, passed away quietly at home in Northville, MI on Wednesday, April 17th, 2024 after a brief illness. Andy was beloved father of Hillary Hanzel (Paul Stewart) and Avrille Hanzel (Scott Ham), both of Ann Arbor, MI; loving brother of Sandra Hanzel (Blanca Viveros) of Glade Park, CO and Gary (Karen) Hanzel of Steubenville, OH; and cherished grandfather and “Papa” to Calvin and Hunter Stewart. Andy is also survived by his former wife and mother of his children, Tanya Hanzel, and his loyal dog, Chili. Andy was predeceased by his parents Andrew Hanzel Sr. and Anne (Krinov) Hanzel; and last year by his brother, Ronald (Karen) Hanzel.

Born on January 14, 1948, in Cleveland, OH, Andy attended primary school at Ridge Road School in Parma, OH and then Schaaf Junior High School, before enrolling at Parma High School where he graduated in 1966. In high school, he attended the Beatles’ 1964 concert in Cleveland, OH and was a superfan for the remainder of his life. When a high school friend won a contest to meet the Beatles, she brought a painting of Andy’s with her and had it autographed by the group, becoming one of his most treasured possessions. Andy was also an original member and lead singer of the popular local band, Penny Arcade. They performed many concerts in the Cleveland area, but a highlight was opening for Cream on May 11, 1968, at the Agora club. He received a scholarship to attend the Cleveland Institute of Arts where he majored in Industrial Design with a minor in Art History. He graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1971.

He spent his career at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, MI, where he worked as an automotive designer. He worked for numerous years in Oldsmobile and contributed to the 1986 Oldsmobile Toronado as well as many other models. His most significant production contribution was the 1995 Buick Riviera, developed in collaboration with Eric Clough. His early career led him to England where he worked at Vauxhall Motors, minting him an anglophile for life. In the latter part of his career, he traveled extensively on behalf of GM to California, Europe, and China. He finished his career as a Manager in the Advanced Brands Studio and was involved in advanced design projects and several concept cars. He taught as an adjunct professor of Transportation Design at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, and after retiring from GM, was a Professor of Industrial/Product Design at Lawrence Technological University where he is remembered for his human-centric design approach. Through his innovative design work at GM, he also holds 13 patents, including designs for a multi-functional automotive fastener system and tailgate apparatus.

He faithfully restored two historic Greek Revival homes in Romeo, MI where he lived with his family. His life’s work centered on restoring the 1858 Ashael Bailey House, which he had moved to save from demolition. To Andy, who moved three buildings in his lifetime, the location of real estate was never a constraint.

He is remembered as an eccentric renaissance man of wide-ranging interests and talents. Andy was an exceptional artist and designer, known for comedic caricatures and his expressive sketches, but was most prolific painting in oils. He was an aesthete and collector of antiques, fine art, British cars, and many unique hats. He leaves behind his beloved 1949 MG-TC, 1966 Austin Healey, and 1969 MG-BGT. An avid reader and intellectual, he loved studying and conversing on philosophy, politics, and early American history, especially the founding fathers. Known for his wit, humor, and antics, he had a larger-than-life personality and hosted many amusing parties during the Romeo Peach Festival, where bagpipers would gather at his home for a performance at the conclusion of the parade. He fought hard and won an incredibly difficult battle with cancer in midlife. He enjoyed several decades cancer-free, remaining forever grateful to Henry Ford Health for having saved his life.

Andy was known as a bon vivant and connoisseur of fine food and cheese, who sparkled in the company of his many friends and acquaintances, including the “Miserable and Grumpys” (MG), the Michigan Chapter of the New England MG ‘T’ Register of which he was a past president, and his friends from GM Design, Cleveland Institute of Art, Ohio, as well as those in England and abroad. He loved traveling abroad but also cherished memories from summers spent with his extended family and friends at Elk Lake, MI. Most of all, he treasured being “Papa” to his beloved grandsons with whom he delighted in collaborating on construction of a fairy house and sharing his love of art and cars.

Any contributions to honor his life may be made to National Public Radio in Washington, D.C., to Detroit PBS, or to the Cleveland Institute of Art.

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Good morning and welcome to the celebration of the exemplary life of Andy Hanzel. I am Rob West, friend of Andy’s since the early 1980’s. Today, we gather to honor Andy’s legacy, as his daughters Hillary and Avrille have asked me to share a few words about the extraordinary journey of Andy over the past 76 years.

Andy was an eccentric, multifaceted individual, challenging to encapsulate in mere words; he was constantly evolving and growing into a new person on his journey through life. His intellectual curiosity, creative genius and keen insights set him apart. His life was interwoven with personal achievements, family memories, professional milestones, artistic endeavors and adventures spanning the globe. Yet, beyond his countless accomplishments, it was Andy’s exceptional qualities as a friend, family man, educator, and innovator that truly define him -- a true Renaissance Man in every sense.

Early Life

In the early chapters of Andy's life, he emerged as a golden boy. Born on January 14, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in the neighboring Parma, he was the eldest of four children. Andy possessed a rare combination of gifts: a talented artist, a sharp intellect, and a striking handsomeness coupled with a big personality. Old high school photographs record his appeal, and he was nominated by peers as "Most Likely to Succeed" in the Parma Senior HS Class of 1966. He revered his parents; his father, Andrew Hanzel Sr., a pioneer in his own right, who embraced yoga long before it was popular. Meanwhile, his mother, Anne (Krinov) Hanzel with her artistic flair, nurtured Andy's own creative spirit. His early introduction to painting through the gift of a paint-by-number set from his mother set the foundation for a lifelong love of painting.

Andy was known to be a bit mischievous in his youth. One story Andy shared happened with his close childhood friend, Ernie. Together, they embarked on an adventure with an old, jalopy, pushing it downhill to be worked on by a local mechanic while foot pedaling "Fred Flintstone" style. Ernie steered and Andy served as brakeman, utilizing a piece of picture hanging wire attached to the rear parking brake lever. Onlookers’ responses to them inside the car with their feet hanging out the bottom was priceless.

Andy’s lifelong passion for the Beatles was ignited with his attendance at their 1964 performance in Cleveland. Later a friend, Lynette Powell, won a Cleveland radio contest to be flown to London to meet the Beatles. She brought with her a painting Andy created depicting the group. This original artwork was signed by all four members of the Beatles. This became one of his most treasured possessions. Hillary recalls it was Paul McCartney who said in the radio broadcast on air, “Well done, Andy.”

With several friends, Andy co-founded a rock & roll band, The Penny Arcade. As the lead singer, they performed many originals as well as music from the Beatles, Cream, Jimi Hendrix and Linn County Blues Band. The Penny Arcade was a popular band in the

Cleveland area winning the "All Ohio Battle of the Bands.” Shortly after, The Penny Arcade played at their biggest venue yet, the Cleveland Stadium in front of 17,000 people alongside other bands such as Bobby Vee, Lemon Pipers, Poor Girls, and James Gang. The high point of their band was when they opened for Cream on May 11, 1968 at the Agora Club in Cleveland. Andy also served on one occasion as “roadie” for the English rock band, The Who, by attending to equipment for their concert.

Moving beyond his musical triumphs, Andy's heart remained steadfast in his childhood dream – designing cars. Guided by this unwavering passion, he pursued his art studies with a scholarship at the Cleveland Institute of Arts (CIA), graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Industrial Design in 1971 with a minor in Art History. These early beginnings put him on a trajectory for artistic, automotive greatness.

Professional Life

In the early stages of his professional journey, Andy embarked on a memorable six-month stint in England around 1972. He explored destinations such as Oxford, Bath, and London, enjoying the sights and indulging in authentic British cuisine. Andy's love for British beers grew as he delighted in sampling them daily. While working for Vauxhall Motors Styling, he solidified his admiration for British culture and earned himself the title of a true anglophile for life. As his souvenir, he had his first British car shipped back home.

Transitioning to his career at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, MI, Andy dedicated the majority of his efforts to shaping the automotive landscape as a respected designer. He worked for numerous years in Oldsmobile and contributed to the 1986 Oldsmobile Toronado as well as many other models. His most significant production contribution was the 1995 Buick Riviera, developed in collaboration with Eric Clough. As his career progressed, Andy traveled the globe on behalf of GM, researching cultural utilization of car features in Europe and China.

In his final chapter at GM, Andy ascended to the role as Manager in the Advanced Brands Studio and was involved in advanced design projects and several concept cars. Andy's legacy extends beyond design, earning thirteen patents, a testament to his ingenuity and pursuit of excellence. Among his notable inventions are designs for a versatile automotive fastener system and a tailgate apparatus, showcasing his enduring impact on the industry.

Academia

Andy's journey led him from the industrial landscape to academia. He began his teaching career as an adjunct professor of Transportation Design at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. Following his retirement from GM, he embraced a new role as a Professor of Industrial/Product Design at Lawrence Technological University. His legacy at the university endures through his commitment to human-centric design principles. He is fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to his students by always setting the bar high.

I would like to share a few tributes from his students:

Student 1: Professor Hanzel had a remarkable ability to push students beyond their comfort zones. He challenged us to question our assumptions and constantly seek new perspectives. His insistence on transforming our way of thinking about design wasn't always easy, but it ultimately ignited my passion for design which continues to this day.

Student 2: I would not be where I am without his sacrifice of time and his patience. I'm black, and in 1989, to find a professor who was not prejudiced against me was extremely rare. I was so grateful for that. He will never be forgotten. He left us all better off than when he found us. Student 3: Your dad seemed like the kind of person who never seemed to stop learning or laughing. The way he taught a human centric approach was the reason I stayed in industrial design and he’s one of the few people I’ve seen who carried the belief that humans are critically important from work and into life.

Family

Andy will be fondly remembered by his family for his unique ways of expressing his love. Andy and Tanya were married in 1983 and together they sculpted a life of wonder in Romeo. It is important to highlight Tanya’s profound influence in allowing Andy to grow into the person he became. Her unwavering support and willingness to afford him the time and freedom to pursue his dreams over their 37 years together deserves special recognition. While living in Romeo they enjoyed their “enclave” of friends and the exuberance of the annual Peach Festival in their early years on Main Street. Their home became an extension of the celebration with bagpipers encircling their front lawn with a special performance following the parade.

Andy & Tanya maintained high aspirations for their daughters, Hillary and Avrille throughout their childhood. Andy used every opportunity to share his passions and ignite their inner emotions. Hillary recalls a second-grade school project she worked on with her dad. They created an elaborate display of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Andy got so involved and made such an elaborate display that Hillary was almost embarrassed to bring it into school because it was so over the top. He influenced her pursuit of the disciplined English style of horseback riding with her first crop and helmet on her 8th birthday. His pride swelled at each of the girls’ major achievements, notably Arville’s degree from Oxford, another testament to his deep love for all things anglophile.

In 2002-2003 Andy fought a difficult battle with cancer. He was frankly told that he may not live as it had metastasized throughout his body. His was eternally grateful for the treatment provided by Henry Ford Hospital system. They gave him a stem cell treatment which saved his life & eventually lead to normal health for the next twenty plus years.

As his daughters found partners in life, Andy embraced them as his own sons, forming bonds with Paul & Scott that transcended blood. Andy’s grandsons, Calvin and Hunter, held a particularly endearing place in his heart, the subject of his fondest conversations and dreams. He acquired an antique squeezebox or concertina and talked of teaching the boys to play it someday. As with his daughters he attended concerts with Calvin and dreamt of and built a beautiful fairy house for his grandsons to enjoy and to nurture their imaginations.

Houses

Andy’s passion for restoring Greek Revival houses was a testament to his love for preserving history. His first house was on Main St in Romeo. Each detail of the house was meticulously restored to its original grandeur and then a second small house was relocated into the backyard. From the oil lamps illuminating each room to his personally hand-sewn velvet curtains, every element was carefully curated. Andy and Tanya received a Certificate of Merit for Historic Preservation by the Romeo Historic District Commission in 1992. Even after its sale, Andy remained very invested in the house. Whenever a new owner moved into the house he would stop by, introduce himself and then proceed to educate the new owners about its rich history and why things were done the way they were.

But Andy sought an even greater challenge. Many of you are aware of the Greek Revival 1858 Ashal Bailey house that he and Tanya purchased for a symbolic $1 and relocated about a mile to Sisson St in Washington Twp. Moving it cost about $35K to have powerlines & other utilities moved so the house could fit down the road. “Location, location, location” is the real estate mantra, but it meant nothing to Andy who did not see location as an insurmountable obstacle. With the same dedication he showed with the first house on Main Street, Andy spent much of his adult life refurbishing, upgrading & adding onto the Sisson house which was nestled amidst rolling hills and ponds on 10 acres of beauty. Andy, whenever possible, restored original features and scoured for antique elements to maintain authenticity. I recall him talking of searching out antique glass for windows & even old shapers to recreate moldings. The house became Andy’s canvas, a living testament to his craftsmanship and reverence for the past. Each room was a masterpiece, adorned with museum quality paintings and furniture. While the work was ongoing, Andy never sought completion, as the journey of restoration was his true passion. In rescuing the St. Clement Catholic Church rectory from destruction and elevating it to its former glory, another aspect of Andy’s legacy is preserved.

Art

Andy was a true master of the fine arts, showcasing exceptional talent in both oil and acrylic painting. His works, including those displayed here today, showcase his creativity and skill.

Andy had many unfinished artistic dreams. In his final conversation with Hillary, he expressed his desire to paint a favorite scene from a Christmas card featuring his beloved grandsons, Calvin and Hunter. This shows how Andy expressed his love and he wanted to use his talents to create a lasting legacy for his grandsons.

Beyond his own creations, Andy had a keen eye for beauty, serving as both a collector and a restorer of fine art. His collection included a painting from the school of Whistler. He also rescued another antique painting from obscurity which was covered in layers of black grime. With meticulous care, Andy painstakingly cleaned every inch with Q-tips, revealing the masterpiece beneath.

Andy’s artwork is yet another legacy he leaves behind.

British Sports Cars

In his lifetime, Andy owned, restored, and maintained about six antique, British cars. Currently, his garage houses three of these: two MG’s including the 1949 MG TC, 1969 MG-BGT with air conditioning and a 1966 Austin Healey. With his sports car enthusiasts club, The MG Club, Andy organized several trips including one where the caravan of antique cars toured all five Great Lakes. He shared tales of driving through the Tunnel of Trees, north of Harbor Springs and stopping at the legendary Legs Inn Restaurant famous for Polish cuisine and its panoramic vista, atop a 150’ bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. The cars were old but simple compared to today’s vehicles and if one broke down, they could generally make repairs while enroute.

Through this MG group he also organized an informal MG group known affectionately as the Miserable and Grumpys or Grumpy Old Men. He organized various outings to favorite notable bars, restaurants & antique car collectors around the state.

Members of the Grumpys have reached out and extended toasts to Andy.

Elk Lake

Our cherished times together at Elk Lake were profoundly significant for us and our families. Both Andy & I married into the circle of friends that met at the five little cottages just south of Elk Rapids on Elk Lake. This annual tradition, which began in 1946 with a gathering of discharged GI’s, evolved to encompass spouses, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, spanning a remarkable 75-year journey until the passing of the cottage owner around 2015. The group grew to nearly forty people who met over the two fourth of July weeks so no one had to drive during the holiday weekend. Inclusion was paramount for Andy; he found fulfillment in being part of such a closely knit group which truly enjoyed one another.

Andy would sometimes drive up in one of his antique convertible cars and always enjoyed embarking on excursions to his favorite spots. I fondly recall our visits to various locales – a quaint shop of antique art prints on Sutton’s Bay, indulging in pickerel sandwiches at another bar, exploring the craftsmanship of a wooden boat builder, partaking of our annual, happy hour Bloody Mary garnished with crawdad at Pearl’s, and dancing or even riding a bicycle through the local dive bar, the Town Club.

A man of many talents, Andy would sometimes wield his painting tools and easel, capturing the beautiful surroundings or depicting memorable scenes like Hillary’s African

Sunset. In his earlier years he lived life boldly, never concerned about self-preservation as he put on fireworks displays every July 4th for the entire group.

Reflecting on those cherished summers, Andy often remarked on the necessity of two weeks, as the first was dedicated to unwinding and the second to truly relaxing.

Food & Drink

Andy's love for food and drink was undeniable. On January 25 of this year he posted on Facebook,” Having procured the requisite victuals, Haggis, Neeps, Tatties, and Shortbread, a quiet supper to honor Robbie Burns is thusly planned…” as Andy observed Robert Burns Day recognizing the18th century Scottish poet.

Together, Andy and I ventured into the world of brewing, crafting not only beer but also the exquisite "Love Child", a braggot inspired by the likes of Shakespeare and Chaucer. Despite its hefty cost to produce, Andy was enthusiastic about this honeyed beverage & often entertained the idea of scaling up production for public enjoyment.

Andy possessed a refined taste for the finer things in life, as evidenced by his winning bid for a Cigar & Scotch tasting experience at an exclusive bar. Hosting a group of friends for an afternoon of fine scotches and premium cigars, Andy demonstrated his elegance and sophistication in every sip and puff.

Genius & Intellectualism

Andy was a man who found joy in both the vibrant social scene and the private depths of intellectual thinking. He was an avid reader of many genres. His love for deep, contemplative thoughts was evident in his keen interest in the art of conversation and his pursuit of knowledge.

Many have spoken of Andy's wide-ranging knowledge, his boundless curiosity, and his profound fascination with the world. His exceptional insight and creative brilliance set him apart in countless ways. He was one of those rare individuals with whom one could engage in discussions on virtually any subject, confident that his contributions would be both informed and insightful.

I vividly remember our conversations delving into topics as diverse as Steven Pinker's "Blank Slate," challenging conventional notions about the balance of nature versus nurture, or Richard Dawkins's "Selfish Gene," which illuminated the complex dynamics of evolution. Andy had a knack for drawing astute insights from articles such as those in The Atlantic, pondering why Americans, despite their high GDP, often fell short on the happiness index compared to other populations.

Epilogue

In his final years, Andy remained unwavering in his pursuit of excellence, evolving as a father, grandfather and friend. Similar to Leonardo DaVinci, who retained many of his artworks throughout his life, continuously enhancing and altering them, Andy’s life mirrored a work in progress, like the Mona Lisa – constantly evolving and inspiring.

As we bid farewell to Andy, let us carry forward his spirit of curiosity and creativity. Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy will endure in so many ways and will inspire future generations.

I would like to close with a statement from Hillary’s father-in-law, Jeff Stewart, who summed up this idea very succinctly in the following words:

Andy was the embodiment of the phrase "a process, not an event". From unfinished houses to unfinished antique automobiles, Andy was never really done with anything. There was always another chapter, another addition, another adjustment, modification, repair, enhancement, or improvement. Remarkably, that included Andy himself. He was, in his final years, still evolving, growing, re-creating and strengthening family relationships and being an ever-better father, father-in-law and grandfather. Indeed, Andy was never done. And that was a good thing.

Good morning and welcome to the celebration of the exemplary life of Andy Hanzel. I am Rob West, friend of Andy’s since the early 1980’s. Today, we gather to honor Andy’s legacy, as his daughters Hillary and Avrille have asked me to share a few words about the extraordinary journey of Andy over the past 76 years.

Andy was an eccentric, multifaceted individual, challenging to encapsulate in mere words; he was constantly evolving and growing into a new person on his journey through life. His intellectual curiosity, creative genius and keen insights set him apart. His life was interwoven with personal achievements, family memories, professional milestones, artistic endeavors and adventures spanning the globe. Yet, beyond his countless accomplishments, it was Andy’s exceptional qualities as a friend, family man, educator, and innovator that truly define him -- a true Renaissance Man in every sense.

Early Life

In the early chapters of Andy's life, he emerged as a golden boy. Born on January 14, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in the neighboring Parma, he was the eldest of four children. Andy possessed a rare combination of gifts: a talented artist, a sharp intellect, and a striking handsomeness coupled with a big personality. Old high school photographs record his appeal, and he was nominated by peers as "Most Likely to Succeed" in the Parma Senior HS Class of 1966. He revered his parents; his father, Andrew Hanzel Sr., a pioneer in his own right, who embraced yoga long before it was popular. Meanwhile, his mother, Anne (Krinov) Hanzel with her artistic flair, nurtured Andy's own creative spirit. His early introduction to painting through the gift of a paint-by-number set from his mother set the foundation for a lifelong love of painting.

Andy was known to be a bit mischievous in his youth. One story Andy shared happened with his close childhood friend, Ernie. Together, they embarked on an adventure with an old, jalopy, pushing it downhill to be worked on by a local mechanic while foot pedaling "Fred Flintstone" style. Ernie steered and Andy served as brakeman, utilizing a piece of picture hanging wire attached to the rear parking brake lever. Onlookers’ responses to them inside the car with their feet hanging out the bottom was priceless.

Andy’s lifelong passion for the Beatles was ignited with his attendance at their 1964 performance in Cleveland. Later a friend, Lynette Powell, won a Cleveland radio contest to be flown to London to meet the Beatles. She brought with her a painting Andy created depicting the group. This original artwork was signed by all four members of the Beatles. This became one of his most treasured possessions. Hillary recalls it was Paul McCartney who said in the radio broadcast on air, “Well done, Andy.”

With several friends, Andy co-founded a rock & roll band, The Penny Arcade. As the lead singer, they performed many originals as well as music from the Beatles, Cream, Jimi Hendrix and Linn County Blues Band. The Penny Arcade was a popular band in the

Cleveland area winning the "All Ohio Battle of the Bands.” Shortly after, The Penny Arcade played at their biggest venue yet, the Cleveland Stadium in front of 17,000 people alongside other bands such as Bobby Vee, Lemon Pipers, Poor Girls, and James Gang. The high point of their band was when they opened for Cream on May 11, 1968 at the Agora Club in Cleveland. Andy also served on one occasion as “roadie” for the English rock band, The Who, by attending to equipment for their concert.

Moving beyond his musical triumphs, Andy's heart remained steadfast in his childhood dream – designing cars. Guided by this unwavering passion, he pursued his art studies with a scholarship at the Cleveland Institute of Arts (CIA), graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Industrial Design in 1971 with a minor in Art History. These early beginnings put him on a trajectory for artistic, automotive greatness.

Professional Life

In the early stages of his professional journey, Andy embarked on a memorable six-month stint in England around 1972. He explored destinations such as Oxford, Bath, and London, enjoying the sights and indulging in authentic British cuisine. Andy's love for British beers grew as he delighted in sampling them daily. While working for Vauxhall Motors Styling, he solidified his admiration for British culture and earned himself the title of a true anglophile for life. As his souvenir, he had his first British car shipped back home.

Transitioning to his career at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, MI, Andy dedicated the majority of his efforts to shaping the automotive landscape as a respected designer. He worked for numerous years in Oldsmobile and contributed to the 1986 Oldsmobile Toronado as well as many other models. His most significant production contribution was the 1995 Buick Riviera, developed in collaboration with Eric Clough. As his career progressed, Andy traveled the globe on behalf of GM, researching cultural utilization of car features in Europe and China.

In his final chapter at GM, Andy ascended to the role as Manager in the Advanced Brands Studio and was involved in advanced design projects and several concept cars. Andy's legacy extends beyond design, earning thirteen patents, a testament to his ingenuity and pursuit of excellence. Among his notable inventions are designs for a versatile automotive fastener system and a tailgate apparatus, showcasing his enduring impact on the industry.

Academia

Andy's journey led him from the industrial landscape to academia. He began his teaching career as an adjunct professor of Transportation Design at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. Following his retirement from GM, he embraced a new role as a Professor of Industrial/Product Design at Lawrence Technological University. His legacy at the university endures through his commitment to human-centric design principles. He is fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to his students by always setting the bar high.

I would like to share a few tributes from his students:

Student 1: Professor Hanzel had a remarkable ability to push students beyond their comfort zones. He challenged us to question our assumptions and constantly seek new perspectives. His insistence on transforming our way of thinking about design wasn't always easy, but it ultimately ignited my passion for design which continues to this day.

Student 2: I would not be where I am without his sacrifice of time and his patience. I'm black, and in 1989, to find a professor who was not prejudiced against me was extremely rare. I was so grateful for that. He will never be forgotten. He left us all better off than when he found us. Student 3: Your dad seemed like the kind of person who never seemed to stop learning or laughing. The way he taught a human centric approach was the reason I stayed in industrial design and he’s one of the few people I’ve seen who carried the belief that humans are critically important from work and into life.

Family

Andy will be fondly remembered by his family for his unique ways of expressing his love. Andy and Tanya were married in 1983 and together they sculpted a life of wonder in Romeo. It is important to highlight Tanya’s profound influence in allowing Andy to grow into the person he became. Her unwavering support and willingness to afford him the time and freedom to pursue his dreams over their 37 years together deserves special recognition. While living in Romeo they enjoyed their “enclave” of friends and the exuberance of the annual Peach Festival in their early years on Main Street. Their home became an extension of the celebration with bagpipers encircling their front lawn with a special performance following the parade.

Andy & Tanya maintained high aspirations for their daughters, Hillary and Avrille throughout their childhood. Andy used every opportunity to share his passions and ignite their inner emotions. Hillary recalls a second-grade school project she worked on with her dad. They created an elaborate display of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Andy got so involved and made such an elaborate display that Hillary was almost embarrassed to bring it into school because it was so over the top. He influenced her pursuit of the disciplined English style of horseback riding with her first crop and helmet on her 8th birthday. His pride swelled at each of the girls’ major achievements, notably Arville’s degree from Oxford, another testament to his deep love for all things anglophile.

In 2002-2003 Andy fought a difficult battle with cancer. He was frankly told that he may not live as it had metastasized throughout his body. His was eternally grateful for the treatment provided by Henry Ford Hospital system. They gave him a stem cell treatment which saved his life & eventually lead to normal health for the next twenty plus years.

As his daughters found partners in life, Andy embraced them as his own sons, forming bonds with Paul & Scott that transcended blood. Andy’s grandsons, Calvin and Hunter, held a particularly endearing place in his heart, the subject of his fondest conversations and dreams. He acquired an antique squeezebox or concertina and talked of teaching the boys to play it someday. As with his daughters he attended concerts with Calvin and dreamt of and built a beautiful fairy house for his grandsons to enjoy and to nurture their imaginations.

Houses

Andy’s passion for restoring Greek Revival houses was a testament to his love for preserving history. His first house was on Main St in Romeo. Each detail of the house was meticulously restored to its original grandeur and then a second small house was relocated into the backyard. From the oil lamps illuminating each room to his personally hand-sewn velvet curtains, every element was carefully curated. Andy and Tanya received a Certificate of Merit for Historic Preservation by the Romeo Historic District Commission in 1992. Even after its sale, Andy remained very invested in the house. Whenever a new owner moved into the house he would stop by, introduce himself and then proceed to educate the new owners about its rich history and why things were done the way they were.

But Andy sought an even greater challenge. Many of you are aware of the Greek Revival 1858 Ashal Bailey house that he and Tanya purchased for a symbolic $1 and relocated about a mile to Sisson St in Washington Twp. Moving it cost about $35K to have powerlines & other utilities moved so the house could fit down the road. “Location, location, location” is the real estate mantra, but it meant nothing to Andy who did not see location as an insurmountable obstacle. With the same dedication he showed with the first house on Main Street, Andy spent much of his adult life refurbishing, upgrading & adding onto the Sisson house which was nestled amidst rolling hills and ponds on 10 acres of beauty. Andy, whenever possible, restored original features and scoured for antique elements to maintain authenticity. I recall him talking of searching out antique glass for windows & even old shapers to recreate moldings. The house became Andy’s canvas, a living testament to his craftsmanship and reverence for the past. Each room was a masterpiece, adorned with museum quality paintings and furniture. While the work was ongoing, Andy never sought completion, as the journey of restoration was his true passion. In rescuing the St. Clement Catholic Church rectory from destruction and elevating it to its former glory, another aspect of Andy’s legacy is preserved.

Art

Andy was a true master of the fine arts, showcasing exceptional talent in both oil and acrylic painting. His works, including those displayed here today, showcase his creativity and skill.

Andy had many unfinished artistic dreams. In his final conversation with Hillary, he expressed his desire to paint a favorite scene from a Christmas card featuring his beloved grandsons, Calvin and Hunter. This shows how Andy expressed his love and he wanted to use his talents to create a lasting legacy for his grandsons.

Beyond his own creations, Andy had a keen eye for beauty, serving as both a collector and a restorer of fine art. His collection included a painting from the school of Whistler. He also rescued another antique painting from obscurity which was covered in layers of black grime. With meticulous care, Andy painstakingly cleaned every inch with Q-tips, revealing the masterpiece beneath.

Andy’s artwork is yet another legacy he leaves behind.

British Sports Cars

In his lifetime, Andy owned, restored, and maintained about six antique, British cars. Currently, his garage houses three of these: two MG’s including the 1949 MG TC, 1969 MG-BGT with air conditioning and a 1966 Austin Healey. With his sports car enthusiasts club, The MG Club, Andy organized several trips including one where the caravan of antique cars toured all five Great Lakes. He shared tales of driving through the Tunnel of Trees, north of Harbor Springs and stopping at the legendary Legs Inn Restaurant famous for Polish cuisine and its panoramic vista, atop a 150’ bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. The cars were old but simple compared to today’s vehicles and if one broke down, they could generally make repairs while enroute.

Through this MG group he also organized an informal MG group known affectionately as the Miserable and Grumpys or Grumpy Old Men. He organized various outings to favorite notable bars, restaurants & antique car collectors around the state.

Members of the Grumpys have reached out and extended toasts to Andy.

Elk Lake

Our cherished times together at Elk Lake were profoundly significant for us and our families. Both Andy & I married into the circle of friends that met at the five little cottages just south of Elk Rapids on Elk Lake. This annual tradition, which began in 1946 with a gathering of discharged GI’s, evolved to encompass spouses, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, spanning a remarkable 75-year journey until the passing of the cottage owner around 2015. The group grew to nearly forty people who met over the two fourth of July weeks so no one had to drive during the holiday weekend. Inclusion was paramount for Andy; he found fulfillment in being part of such a closely knit group which truly enjoyed one another.

Andy would sometimes drive up in one of his antique convertible cars and always enjoyed embarking on excursions to his favorite spots. I fondly recall our visits to various locales – a quaint shop of antique art prints on Sutton’s Bay, indulging in pickerel sandwiches at another bar, exploring the craftsmanship of a wooden boat builder, partaking of our annual, happy hour Bloody Mary garnished with crawdad at Pearl’s, and dancing or even riding a bicycle through the local dive bar, the Town Club.

A man of many talents, Andy would sometimes wield his painting tools and easel, capturing the beautiful surroundings or depicting memorable scenes like Hillary’s African

Sunset. In his earlier years he lived life boldly, never concerned about self-preservation as he put on fireworks displays every July 4th for the entire group.

Reflecting on those cherished summers, Andy often remarked on the necessity of two weeks, as the first was dedicated to unwinding and the second to truly relaxing.

Food & Drink

Andy's love for food and drink was undeniable. On January 25 of this year he posted on Facebook,” Having procured the requisite victuals, Haggis, Neeps, Tatties, and Shortbread, a quiet supper to honor Robbie Burns is thusly planned…” as Andy observed Robert Burns Day recognizing the18th century Scottish poet.

Together, Andy and I ventured into the world of brewing, crafting not only beer but also the exquisite "Love Child", a braggot inspired by the likes of Shakespeare and Chaucer. Despite its hefty cost to produce, Andy was enthusiastic about this honeyed beverage & often entertained the idea of scaling up production for public enjoyment.

Andy possessed a refined taste for the finer things in life, as evidenced by his winning bid for a Cigar & Scotch tasting experience at an exclusive bar. Hosting a group of friends for an afternoon of fine scotches and premium cigars, Andy demonstrated his elegance and sophistication in every sip and puff.

Genius & Intellectualism

Andy was a man who found joy in both the vibrant social scene and the private depths of intellectual thinking. He was an avid reader of many genres. His love for deep, contemplative thoughts was evident in his keen interest in the art of conversation and his pursuit of knowledge.

Many have spoken of Andy's wide-ranging knowledge, his boundless curiosity, and his profound fascination with the world. His exceptional insight and creative brilliance set him apart in countless ways. He was one of those rare individuals with whom one could engage in discussions on virtually any subject, confident that his contributions would be both informed and insightful.

I vividly remember our conversations delving into topics as diverse as Steven Pinker's "Blank Slate," challenging conventional notions about the balance of nature versus nurture, or Richard Dawkins's "Selfish Gene," which illuminated the complex dynamics of evolution. Andy had a knack for drawing astute insights from articles such as those in The Atlantic, pondering why Americans, despite their high GDP, often fell short on the happiness index compared to other populations.

Epilogue

In his final years, Andy remained unwavering in his pursuit of excellence, evolving as a father, grandfather and friend. Similar to Leonardo DaVinci, who retained many of his artworks throughout his life, continuously enhancing and altering them, Andy’s life mirrored a work in progress, like the Mona Lisa – constantly evolving and inspiring.

As we bid farewell to Andy, let us carry forward his spirit of curiosity and creativity. Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy will endure in so many ways and will inspire future generations.

I would like to close with a statement from Hillary’s father-in-law, Jeff Stewart, who summed up this idea very succinctly in the following words:

Andy was the embodiment of the phrase "a process, not an event". From unfinished houses to unfinished antique automobiles, Andy was never really done with anything. There was always another chapter, another addition, another adjustment, modification, repair, enhancement, or improvement. Remarkably, that included Andy himself. He was, in his final years, still evolving, growing, re-creating and strengthening family relationships and being an ever-better father, father-in-law and grandfather. Indeed, Andy was never done. And that was a good thing.

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To those of you who may have not met me before, I'm Andy's youngest daughter Avrille. Or as dad would call me, Avz, Avzer, Wavz, or Avz Cabavz. I know most people would probably say this about their dads, but my dad thought his daughters were just the best.

One of the greatest joys of my life was how proud I was able to make my dad with our shared experiences in England. I will never ever forget when I called him to tell him I got accepted to the University of Oxford for business school. The noise I heard on the other side of the phone was somewhere between a shriek, a howl and a pure-joy-never-been-happier laugh. To say my dad was proud is an understatement. Over the next year my dad visited me twice in England and we made some pretty special memories, from joining him at some old pubs in London to visiting his friends from his Vauxhall days, Jill & Peter Birtwhistle, and Ken and Paula Greenley, and exploring the many wonders of Oxford. You could see the joy on his face as he reminisced about one of his favorite phases of life and he got immense joy that I was now having a similar life experience. He and my mother returned for my graduation a few months later, held in the historic Sheldonian Theatre built in 1664. Mom and Dad were sure to snag a front row seat and, again, I think there's never been a prouder father.

I am also so thankful that Dad got to be there when I married my husband, Scott, last fall. He loved Scott and while they only had a few years together, he welcomed him into the family as his own son. Some of you may know it wasn't a traditional wedding, it was a small gathering in the backyard of our very new, yet not yet renovated house. Dad came over almost every day in the weeks leading up to the event, trimming bushes, laying mulch, cleaning tile floors and our wood trim, and making sure the house was perfect for the big day. On our wedding day, I surprised Dad during the reception by asking him for a first dance, which we hadn’t previously discussed. Given we didn't have a dance floor, or anything prepared, he was at first confused, but didn't take long for the man who loved to dance to be out in the grass spinning his daughter around with the happiest smile on his face. I wasn't sure what my dad would think about our nontraditional wedding, but a few months later, he said to me "You know avz, your wedding was absolutely perfect. Just perfect". As someone who doesn’t easily give out praise, this meant a lot.

As she mentioned, my sister and I were fortunate to have worked with my dad on his estate plan earlier this year, prompting him to think about what he wanted his legacy to be. It became very clear that dad wanted his legacy to be focused on supporting his grandkids and future grandkids, which he made a point to ask me about frequently. I was over his house this week trying to find important things that we wanted to have here today. I stumbled across a notebook that had a message on it from Dad. I thought he articulated his wishes for his remaining days much better than I could:

“I would like to leave as much as possible to alleve any college debt and promote my progeny to be exposed to the trial and travails of the world while also the majesty and wonder the future holds. “

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Andy and I have traveled a lot of miles, figuratively AND literally. 46 years, hanging out together, we shared not just interests, but point of view. Part of what made him him was a natural technical intuition, which I appreciated.

His knowledge of obscure mechanical details combined with his constant curiosity about how things work (or why they break), and his ability to see potential in things others might miss, gave him the ongoing confidence to imagine, and execute Herculean projects, like saving historic buildings by moving them from miles away and restoring them. Or saving old cars by pulling them apart and then repairing them himself.

Among his many talents, he was a bit of a 'McGyver', and when confronted with a technical challenge, he could take it personally, and it could become a grudge match.

Our first road trip northern Michigan we stayed in a little motor cabin west of St. Ignace. Quaint. Rustic. A little funky. Old. It had a single room with a couple of beds and with a small gas stove in front a stone fireplace. Early August, but up there the evenings tend to cool down. We were getting settled in and I opted to shower up while Andy decided to get some heat going. "You've lit those before, right?" He was almost insulted that I'd ask.

I've showered, dressed for bed, and shaving, when I hear a loud "FWOOMP!', kind of like the sound a large bag of laundry would make after dropping 2 stories on the ground.

Opening the door, there's McGyver, sitting on the floor, arms behind him, legs out in front, with a stunned look- red face, his hair and mustache frizzed like a Hallowe'en cat, and his eyebrows partially blown off.

I never failed to learn stuff from Andy: on that trip, he taught me that there is a limit on how long to let the gas run before lighting the pilot.

Andy preached the gospel of 'learning to fix things yourself'' as part of self-reliance as a character trait, a philosophy that IS useful but that can also have limits. I think on some of the many road trips in groups of vintage British sports cars, it meant the difference, either for him or for someone in the group, between being stranded and getting home.

When I became the owner of one of those cars, having Andy on speed dial proved to be a godsend. One summer evening years back, my wife Jan and I were out in our MG when it suddenly just stopped running. We coasted off onto a side street and tried to root-cause the problem, to no avail. So, I called Andrew and described the behavior. "Sounds like fuel." Pause. "I'll call you back." A few minutes later. "Does the fuel pump work? Did you drain the fuel lines to the carburetors?" We went down a mental checklist he was composing as we talked.

Phone rings about 15 minutes later: "Go back and pop the cap on the gas tank." So, I did. "Now see if it starts." Fires right up.

He remembered me describing making a new seal for the gas tank because the old one leaked; "What did you make it out of?" "Rubber." There was the problem: the old leaky one was made of cork to vent the tank, a detail he knew that I missed when I made the new one. The seal created a vacuum, and the gas wasn't flowing. He didn't know right away, but he pieced together cause and effect.

He and I related on so many different levels, and I feel privileged to count him as one of my closest friends. I should probably start learning to fix stuff myself.