Andre Popov "Andy" Vasilev

VASILEV, Andre "Andy" Popov Left this world peacefully, with family by his side, on March 1, 2018. Predeceased by his wife and companion Elizabeth, he leaves behind son Murray (Sharon), daughter Susan (David) and beloved grandsons Michael, Matthew and Bryn. He also leaves behind his in-laws, Barry and Carla Hoag, who were a constant source of support through the years. He loved them and their three kids dearly. Andre will also be greatly missed by his best friend of over 60 years, Dr. Hans Heimlich, as well as Ruth and the family. Born in Chernichevo, Bulgaria, in February 1924, Andre was the only child of Sonja and Nicholas Popov Vasilev. Instead of following his father and grandfather into the orthodox priesthood, Andre attended Karlovo Military School and graduated from the Nicholas Vaptsarov Naval Academy in Varna. His naval career was cut short by the rise of Stalinism in postwar Bulgaria. His father's work with the Orthodox church put him on a blacklist in the new regime, and he was effectively sentenced to death as the engine mechanic on a minesweeper. While docked in Allied-controlled Vienna, Andre managed to escape and declare refugee status. He eventually made his way to Canada by way of Montreal, then onto Cabbagetown in Toronto. After a year, he moved to Victoria, where he found work as a marine mechanic. Shortly thereafter, Andre met Hans Heimlich in a chance encounter in Beacon Hill Park. Through this friendship, some years later, Andre met Heimlich's next-door neighbour Elizabeth (Bette), and her two children. The story goes that within weeks Bette asked Andre to marry her. The marriage papers were signed at City Hall, and they celebrated with hamburgers at Beacon Hill Drive In. At the time, Andre was working as a machinist/mechanic for Burrard Yarrows in Esquimalt. In 1968, Andre moved the family to North Pender Island, commuting to his business Marine Motors in Victoria. Andre was a self-described "collector," and those who remember these years remember the towers of logs and driftwood he gaffed from the ocean, the lawn of broken cars, and sheds full of marine-green tools. He also collected music, poetry, and instruments to accompany them. He was never short of words to say or songs to sing. His Eastern charm, easy smile and quick wit were the stuff of Island legend. Andre will also be remembered for his great generosity and loyalty, knack for matchmaking, and zest for politics and the politically incorrect. In the late eighties, Andre and Bette moved back to Victoria where they enjoyed retired life. Andre had many visits with the Heimlichs, close Bulgarian friends, extended family and the 'Automotive Coffee Club.' He was blessed to be friends with Yasser Youssef and his family, who were so kind to their 'Uncle Andy.' Huge thanks to the wonderful people at Highgate Lodge, the professional Beacon Home support staff, Dr. Ted Rosenberg and his amazing team, and Simon and the incredible crew at Save-on-Foods Pharmacy on Blanshard Street. While it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to support our precious elders with the care and dignity that Andre received. A celebration of Andre's life will take place Sunday, August 19th from 3-6pm at the Pender Island Legion. You can leave the car at Swartz Bay and walk on the ferry, the Legion is only a short walk on the other side. All are welcome!