Andrew Gerd Michaels

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Andrew Gerd Michaels

Beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and coach passed away unexpectedly May 25, 2006, at the age of 56, thankfully, with his family by his side.
Andy "Drew" Michels was born into the loving arms of his parents, Bob and Gerd, on Valentine's Day 1950. Andy grew up in Ballard, graduated from Ballard High School in 1968, and went on to join the U.S. National Guard. In 1973, he proudly became a member of the Seattle Fire Department. During these years, "The Drew" realized his true calling, coaching youth basketball and softball, eventually settling into his passion, coaching women's softball. He had great success throughout the years, leading many teams to state and regional tournaments. The highlight of his coaching career was when his "Drew's Goof's" women's team won the National Invitational Tournament and was ranked No. 1 in 1996, and then went on to win the Washington State Championship in 1997.
Andy was preceded in death by his special grandpa "on the hill" and his most loved grandma "at the beach"; infant sister, Michelle Marie; uncle, Hank Cooley; and his stepdaughter, Michelle, whom he loved dearly and whose death changed his life forever.
As untimely as Andy's death was, it allowed him to be waiting with open arms for his mother, who passed away peacefully 34 hours later, knowing that her loving son would be there to welcome her home.
Andy is survived by his loving father, Robert; little brother, Kenny; sister-in-law, Shawna; and the loves of his life, his nieces, Sofie and Amelia. He also leaves behind his Aunt Pasta and Uncle Jerry, Uncle Marty, and Aunt Martha, Aunt Jo, and Uncle Mike, and Auntie Ell, as well as many cousins. Andy also held a special place in his heart for his best friend, Billy, and his trusted companion, Kemp.
A memorial service to celebrate Andy's life will be held at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday June 6, at Calvary Lutheran Church, 7002 23rd NW, Seattle, with a reception following.