Andrew Henry Dersch

Andrew Henry Dersch August 6, 1937 – April 3, 2025 With deep love and respect, we announce the passing of Andrew Henry Dersch, a devoted engineer, cherished father, grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully on April 3rd, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on August 6th, 1937, in Detroit Michigan, Andy's life was a testament to unwavering dedication, kindness, and a profound impact on all who were fortunate enough to know him. His warmth, compassion, and generosity will forever live on in the hearts of his loved ones. Andy, as he was known to his friends and family, spent his life in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he passed away surrounded by those who loved him. After moving to Arizona at the age of five, with his family from Detroit Michigan, he graduated from North High School in Phoenix before proudly serving in the United States Air Force, where he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. While stationed in Little Rock, Arkansas, Andy met and married the love of his life, Mary Jo, in 1959. Together, they raised two children, Mark Andrew, and Andrea Leigh. In addition to his mechanical engineering work at Air Research, Andy furthered his education by attending night school at ASU, where he earned a degree in business. His career took him around the globe, but his heart was always with his family. After an incredible 40 years of loyal service to Air Research, later Honeywell, Andy retired, giving him the opportunity to spend his golden years doing what he loved with Mary Jo: traveling, playing cards, collecting antiques, and helping those around him. One of his most cherished traditions was spending time on the beach with his wife and daughter. There he would collect sand dollars and hand them out to children on his walks along the shore. It was in these quiet acts of joy and generosity that Andy's gentle, loving spirit truly shone. Andy held deep pride in his German heritage, a connection that was woven into the fabric of who he was. With parents from Germany and Austria, he often spoke of his roots with great affection. His German cousins held a truly special place in his heart, he cherished them not just as extended family, but as brothers and sisters, and he loved them dearly. Through his work, Andy had the opportunity to visit Germany often, which allowed him to stay close to the family he adored. When Honeywell offered him a position overseas, he joyfully accepted and alongside Mary Jo, made the move to Wiesbaden for five unforgettable years. Their time there was filled with adventure, meaningful friendships, and beautiful memories they carried with them always. One of the most treasured moments in recent years was Andy's final trip to Germany, just five years ago. It was a journey full of reflection, joy, and love - a fitting tribute to the bond he held so close to his heart. Andy was deeply proud of his children and their accomplishments, particularly the fact that both became educators in Arizona. His pride extended to his son Mark and granddaughter Alexandra, who also graduated from ASU, making three generations of ASU graduates in the family. Above all, Andy was a true family man. He was always there for his loved ones-coaching, volunteering, and showing up for every school activity. Even after his retirement he was always willing to lend a hand, whether helping prepare classrooms for the school year or volunteering in his community. Andy was well-known for his personal touch, knowing all his neighbors by name and offering help whenever it was needed. Andy was a man of simple joys-a good fatty brisket, an ice cream cone from McDonald's with Mary Jo, and always a little wink for those he loved. He never said an unkind word about anyone and had a gift for seeing the good in people. With his sweet smile and quiet grace, he focused on the positive in his life, leaving those around him feeling uplifted and deeply cared for. He will be remembered as a warm, generous soul who touched the lives of all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Jo; son, Mark (Jeannie); daughter, Andrea (Ed); granddaughter, Alexandra; and brother, Robert (Judy). The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses who provided care and comfort during his final months: Dr. David Cho, Dr. Amir Azadi, Dr. Apar Gupta, Dr. John Wanebo, and the dedicated staff at Scottsdale Osborn. In keeping with Andy's wishes, there will be no memorial service. He often shared, "There should be no mourning - celebrate my life with happiness." It was his hope that those who knew him would remember the joy, laughter, and love he brought into the world, and carry that spirit forward in their own lives. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Andrew, please visit our floral store.