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Andrew Lessard Obituary

Andrew Joseph Lessard, 24, son of former Santa Clarita, CA residents, Kate and Doug Lessard, passed away suddenly on Sunday, April 10, 2016 in Austin, TX.

Andy lived in Santa Clarita from July 2004 until July 2014. He attended Rio Norte Junior High School and Valencia High School, graduating in 2010. He played AYSO Soccer, Hart Baseball, and boys soccer at Valencia High School his freshman year. He loved to skateboard, and spent many hours at the City of Santa Clarita Skatepark. He also loved music and enjoyed playing his acoustic and electric guitars.

Andy had many friends and was always loved for his infectious shy smile and caring, loving personality. But, unfortunately, early in high school, he began experiencing symptoms of depression and social anxiety, which led eventually to drug addiction. His family has always been open about his struggles, always providing him with unconditional love and support in his battle with addiction and the mental illness that led him down this path. In July 2014, Andy made the decision to move to Kerrville, TX to live in a sober living home and work on his sobriety. He lived nearby his older brother, Cameron, who was married and living in the Dallas area. In July of 2015, his parents relocated back to Houston for Doug's job, and were closer to Andy, which they all were happy about.

Andy had enrolled in community college in August of 2015, studying Power Technology and was finally on a good path. He received a 4.0 in the fall semester, something he was immensely proud of. He retreated back into depression and anxiety in the spring semester of 2016, finally succumbing to a fatal heroin overdose.

Andy was happiest when he was with his family and his beloved 12-year-old Golden Retriever, Sydney. His favorite family times were the annual ski/snowboard trip to Lake Tahoe each winter and the week they spent at Newport Coast each fall. Over Easter weekend 2016, he was able to meet and hold his newborn niece, Elle Juliette Lessard, daughter of Cameron and Denise. He thought she was pretty special and they had an immediate bond.

He is survived by his parents, Kate and Doug Lessard of Houston TX; brother, Cameron and wife Denise of McKinney, TX; sister, Betsy Lessard of Scottsdale AZ; grandmothers, Agnes Lessard and Ann Kennedy; many uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Memorial Services will be held at 4:00pm on Friday, May 20, 2016 at United Methodist Church, 25718 McBean Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Light of Hope foundation (www.alightofhopescv.org).

The Signal, May 17, 2016
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Published on signalscv.com May 17 to May 23, 2016

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Published by Santa Clarita Valley Signal on May 17, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Lessard

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Allan and Susankeeley SZKLARSKI.

May 11, 2025

Mother´s Day 2025, dearest Kate, I too know the pain. The holidays are hard. But I continue to move forward for the rest of my children. I never forget Derek and I keep his memory alive every holiday. Today I had my mom´s pic out as she died of cancer in 1989! I know Douglas misses his mom today as well. Happy Mother´s Day dear. You are blessed.

Sue Szklarski

May 11, 2020

Thinking of you today and praying for a better tommarrow. So sorry!

May 11, 2019

On the upcoming anniversary of Andrew, I pray that both of you (Kate and Doug) have found peace and the joy to continue living. I am sure the pain and memories of your beloved son Andrew will take up space in your hearts forever. This is just a remembrance note that he will never be forgotten.

Brian

April 16, 2019

He was such a sweet soul and lives in our family always! He is in my thoughts almost every day❤

Susan Pettit

May 23, 2016

I cannot express the sadness I feel for the loss of your son who worked hard to fight his demons. As someone in long term recovery I feel in my core when we lose a brother to addiction. There are no words to comfort you all just prayers for healing.

May 19, 2016

Rest in Peace, beautiful young man. My heart aches for your family's loss and all that they've been through. May your soul shine down on those walking your path & lead them to safety.

Kevin Kornegay

May 18, 2016

Bummer. Thoughts to family. Viking forever!

May 17, 2016

Thinking and praying for The Lessard Family this week.
Your neighbors,
Linda and Greg Floyd

May 17, 2016

Thinking of you during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers to your entire family. The Burch family.

Al and Sue, David, Daniel,Douglas and Danielle, and Derek in Heaven at 23! Szklarski

May 17, 2016

We are so sad and truly sorry for the loss of Andy! We are praying for you and wish you comfort in kindness in the days ahead. We hold on to the precious photos, memories and tributes we are told while a piece of our hearts is now in heaven. He struggled and tried but gone to soon. God bless him and you!

Mike Fligg

May 17, 2016

Very sorry for your loss......

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