William Andrew "Andy" Schlenker Sr.

SCHLENKER William Andrew "Andy" Schlenker, Sr., age 67 years, a native and lifelong resident of Covington, LA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 1, 2012. Devoted son of William J. "Willie" Schlenker, Sr. and the late Alice Kusch Schlenker. The beloved husband of Linda Townsend Schlenker and loving father of three children: Lesley Gatto (Gregory) of Slidell, LA, Andy, Jr. and Ashley, both of Covington. Proud grandfather of Caci Cooper, Andrew, III and Ashton Schlenker. Survived by two sisters, Marie Matrisciano (Jim), Theresa Braun (Larry) and his brother, Billy Schlenker (Cecilia). Also survived by several nieces, nephews and numerous cousins. For the past fifty years Andy worked as an electrician and for the latter thirty-six as an electrical contractor as owner of Schlenker Electric, Inc. He served in the U.S. Army during the "Tet Offensive" era of the Vietnam War and was a highly decorated soldier. Andy was an avid hunter and a member of the Safari International Club for many years. He loved life and lived it to the fullest. He will be best remembered by his family, friends and all who knew him as a meticulously hard-working, honest, dedicated man of immense integrity. He put others before himself and was always willing to give a helping hand. He brightened each day with a wonderful smile, hearty laugh and a great sense of humor. He will be dearly missed by all. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral service at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 9, 2012 at Fountain of Praise Church of God, 1041 Ronald Reagan Hwy. Covington, LA 70433. Visiting hours will begin Saturday at 10:00 AM. Interment at the Garden District Cemetery will immediately follow the service. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home of Covington, LA has been entrusted with arrangements. Please sign the family guestbook on-line at www.ejfieldingfh.com.