Andrew Joseph McCarthy

Andrew McCarthy, age 81, of Mokena, passed away on August 22, 2025.

Andy was born in County Wexford, Ireland, and came to America in 1952, settling in Canaryville. It was there, while attending school, that he met the love of his life, Sandra Gagen. Andy sat behind her in class and playfully dipped her hair in the inkwell at his desk. That innocent moment grew into a lifelong love, and on December 20, 1966, Andy and Sandy were married. Together they lived in Canaryville and later on the south side of Chicago, where they raised two children, Michelle and Kevin.

A proud union roofer, Andy also built a side business with his brother Phil called McCarthy Brothers, specializing in shingle roofing. He was a hands-on father who included his children in everything, from washing cars and playing catch in the backyard to working the grill as the family's "wing master." Andy and Sandy could often be found running the concession stand at Michelle and Kevin's ballgames at Scottsdale Ford City.

Family time was at the center of his life. Andy loved taking his grandchildren camping in his RV and enjoyed summers at Hi-Tide Campground in Sandwich, Illinois. He once took the family on a memorable road trip to Naples, Florida. Skilled with his hands, he built Michelle a desk, Kevin a wishing well, and Sandy a windmill, each crafted with care.

In 2024, Michelle was blessed to take Andy to Ireland to celebrate his 80th birthday, giving him the gift of returning to his homeland.

Andy is survived by his daughter Michelle McCarthy, and his grandchildren Kylie, Jack, and Brett McCarthy. He is also survived by his siblings Maureen (the late John) Bennett, Peter (the late Jean) McCarthy, Phil (the late Maria) McCarthy, and sister-in-law Margo McCarthy.

He is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife Sandra McCarthy, his son Kevin McCarthy, his parents Michael and Teresa McCarthy, and his brothers John and Michael McCarthy.

Please join the family for a visitation on Friday August 29, 2025 from 3 until 8 pm at Vandenberg Funeral Home, Mokena, 19604 S. Wolf Rd. Mokena, IL 60448. Visitation will continue on Saturday August 30, 2025 from 10 am until procession to St Mary's Catholic Church 19515 115th Ave, Mokena, IL 60448 for a 11:30 a.m. Mass of Christian burial.  We will then process to Resurrection Cemetery for burial.