Andrew J. Spheeris

1924 - 2016

Spheeris, Andrew J. Left us peacefully on July 24, 2016 in Sedona, Arizona at the age of 92. Survived by wife Nancy, daughter Calli (Joe Conti), son John (May), son Chris (Mercedes Ortega), grandchildren Alex (Alessandra), Kosta, Angela, Ariana, and many loving relatives and friends. Preceded in death by parents John and Helen Spheeris, brothers George and Paul, and niece Ellen Spheeris-Reihnke. Services in Sedona and Milwaukee will be private and Andy will be laid to rest beside his parents in Milwaukee. Born on June 6, 1924 in Milwaukee, he co-founded the city's largest privately-owned sporting goods store with brother Paul. Andy, a World War II US Army Air Force Lieutenant, survived a deadly plane crash in 1945. Always vibrant and charismatic, Andy co-chaired the Democratic Party's Jefferson-Jackson dinner in the 1950's. After retirement, he contributed years of humanitarian work in rural Mexico and continued his charity work in Sedona. From age 84 to 89, Andy taught Ancient Greek history, World War II history and other subjects at Sedona's Yavapai College. In Andy's own words: "Don't weep for me dear family and friends. Who has lived a better life than I have? I have seen the world and had many adventures. Best of all, I have had an outstanding wife and family. I am thankful that I could live in a place like beautiful Sedona, the garden spot of the world. What a great way to say goodbye. I'm in a nice quiet place now. Enjoy your life dear ones as I have so that when it's time to say good bye, you'll all say NO REGRETS. Love you all. See you later, hopefully, much, much, later." Andy, rest in peace and thank you for the many years that you shined your bright light on those who were fortunate enough to know you.