Thomas Leeson Andrews, 48, who
only last April had to step down as president of the Wayland Athletic Boosters, died of cancer Wednesday, June 3.
Besides the Athletic Boosters, Tom was very involved in many organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America, coach of youth baseball and youth football and umpire in Dorr Recreation League. He served the community on the Thornapple Township EMS, Wayland EMS, and as a reserve officer in Allegan County Sheriff’s Department.
Tom enjoyed working on cars. He also loved to go hunting, snowmobiling, camping and boating.
“We were lucky to have Tom as a Booster, and even luckier to know him,” said a statement by the Wayland Athletic Boosters issued Wednesday evening. “He made an incredible impact in our community and served it with such heart. He will be greatly missed, and never forgotten.”
“Tom worked so hard for our community and our schools, said Wayland schools employee Jan Goodwin. “You could see him in the concession stand for every game.”
Tom is survived by his wife of 26 years, Valerie Andrews (Van Dyke); his children, Kyle, Cody, Katelynn Andrews; his parents, Thomas S. and Joyce Andrews (Leeson); his father- and mother-in-law, Doug and Ruth Van Dyke; his sister, Cathy (Dale) Freybler; his sisters-in-law, Vicky Van Dyke and Robin Van Dyke; and his nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Lori Strach and his brother-in-la
w, Dan Van Dyke.
A time for relatives and friends to visit with Tom’s family will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m.Saturday at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services in Wayland, 312 N. Main St. Memorial services will be held 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 7, at Wayland United Methodist Church, 200 Church St., with visitation prior to the service beginning at 1:30. Rev. Jeff Williams will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a fund for Tom’s children. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guestbook online at www.kubiakcook.com
PHOTOS: Tom and Andrews and his wife, Valerie.
Tom Andrews in April received an award from Athletic Director Justin Wilson at a special program marking his retirement as Wayland Athletic Boosters president.
