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BORN
1997
DIED
2018
FUNERAL HOME
ANDREW LENZ Obituary
November 12, 2017
Andrew (Drew) Steven Lenz of Stanwood, died peacefully from a snowboarding accident with his friend, Jake Amancio, on Mount Baker, November 12, 2017. Drew was twenty years old.
He was born to Steve Lenz and Jane Lenz of Stanwood on April 2, 1997, and attended Cedarhome Elementary, Stanwood Middle School, and Stanwood High School, graduating in the class of 2015.
During middle school, Drew began to develop his interest in snowboarding, and it became his passion for the remainder of his life. We are comforted to know on the day of the fatal accident, he was doing the thing he loved most.
Drew was a die-hard Seattle sports fan, and he was always ready to provide stats and scores from the Seahawks, Mariners, and UW Huskies. He loved his family and friends wholeheartedly, and he had a special knack for making people feel important and loved.
Drew is survived by his mom, Jane, dad, Steve (Marcie), brothers Bryce, Karl (Jessica, adored nephew, Carter), Alan (Kaylin), and John (Teresa), maternal grandpa Leigh Nold, aunts Claire (Jeff) Nold-Glaser, Lynn (Alex) Barashkoff, uncles Bill (Nancy) Lenz, Tom (Cindy) Lenz, Doug (Denise) Lenz, aunt Suzanne (Paul) Christianson, and numerous cousins and extended family throughout the area. Drew is also survived by many friends and well-wishers, all for whom his family is deeply grateful.
Drew was predeceased by maternal grandma Marilyn Nold, and paternal grandparents Jack and Beverly Lenz, all from Stanwood.
The family would like to publicly express sincere thanks to the Bellingham Mountain Rescue team under the guidance of Chuck Foster, Whatcom County sheriff deputies, Mark Jilk and Mason Stafford, and the US/Canadian Border Patrol, who all donated so many hours of their own time to help in the search for the past eleven months. We would additionally like to thank all the friends, family, community members and businesses, as well as non-local people who helped search, offered prayers, fixed meals, and donated their time to lend support. Our hearts are full of gratitude for all the effort provided by so many. Special thanks to the Amancio family for their continued support following the retrieval of Jake.
A Memorial Mass for Drew and Jake will be held at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Stanwood, 26900 78th Ave. NW, on Saturday, November 24, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a light lunch and memory-sharing in the church social hall. A family graveside remembrance will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of Gilbertson Funeral home in Stanwood.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Bellingham Mountain Rescue (a non-profit, volunteer) search group who assisted every step of the way. Bellingham Mountain Rescue, P.O. Box 292, Bellingham, WA 98227, or [email protected]
Rest in snowy peace, sweet Drew. We will miss you and your extra special hugs forever and a day.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for ANDREW LENZ
Sponsored by Gilbertson Funeral Home and Cremation Service - Stanwood.
J Milner
December 29, 2018
Ms Jane, Mr Steve & Family I am deeply sorry for your loss. My warmest condolences go out to all of you and his wonderful friends. May the God who "binds up the brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn" sustain your family during this difficult time. Isaiah 61:1,2
Daniel & Jennifer Gray
November 25, 2018
We would like to send our deepest sympathies to the families of Andrew & Jake. We will keep you in our hearts and prayers.
Karen Epperson
November 24, 2018
I recall several happy memories of Drew. One day we were at the Lenz home with my daughter Katie and my son Jeff, Drew who was about 3 or 4 years of age, came running into the kitchen and said to his mom in an excited voice, "I'm going show Katie how I ride my bike." (which was a trike) Jane replied "OK Drew but don't forget to wear your helmet." A few minutes later Jane and I looked out the window to see Drew tearing up the driveway on his trike with a helmet, yellow rubber boots and his tidy whiteite's.
Another time when the Lenz family was at our house picking out a puppy from our litter of Golden Retrievers for Alan, little Drew said to Katie in a serious tone, "I haven't seen you in a long time, I've missed you." He then took her hand and led her away to play. It was one of those special moments of childhood innocence that is precious and endearing.
One day Jane had to run some errands so Alan, John and Drew came by to play with Katie and Jeff. I whipped up some Kraft Mac and Cheese for lunch. All of the kids were eating away except Drew. Jane had taught her kids to be polite so he didn't say anything, he just stared at his bowl. Finally I asked, "Drew what's wrong?" He said, "there's black stuff on my macaroni!" It was pepper. I made him some more.
Dear Lenz Family,
I know your pain is immense right now. We want you to know that our family will always remember the darling little boy who brought everyone great joy, laughter and special memories.
Love Steve, Karen, Katie, & Jeff Epperson
Cheryl Baker
November 18, 2018
Dear Jane and family, I pray that you will find some peace to warm your hearts. With love, Cheryl Baker and family.
Eloise and Bruce Zelk
November 18, 2018
Drew, we will always remember your smiling face. You will be missed . We wish you and your whole family peace.
November 18, 2018
Such a tragedy. My love and sympathy to the family and your love of family and church will help you through these most difficult times. Dottie Duffy Palm Springs, Ca
Pat Hayes
November 16, 2018
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Sheralee Bachofner-Torres
November 16, 2018
Drew was such a Special part of my life, loved that little guy so much!!!! Happy I have so many wonderful memories of Drew, as I cared for him as a child. I loved him as my own. May the love of friends and family help you through your grief, not only now, but in the days and years to come. Hugs to you all!!
With all my Love and deepest sympathies,
Sheral Bachofner Torres
Susan and Jerry Campbell
November 16, 2018
You are so deeply missed sweet, funny, sprite of a boy and will live forever in our hearts and souls. Thank you for bringing so much joy, laughter and fun into our home and family. May your adventures continue, my little Leprechaun, and your spirit continue to keep our hearts full of the delight you brought to them. We love you, Buddy. So very, very muchAlways. MamaSue
Diane Spain
November 14, 2018
May your memories of Drew bring you comfort and may God embrace each and every one of you during this most difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers!!!
Karen
November 14, 2018
To the family and friends of Andrew Steven Lenz, please accept my sympathy. May you find comfort knowing that those who died God keeps them in his memory. And at Psalms 116:15 they are precious in God's eyes
Jennifer Eckman
November 14, 2018
Keep fond memories of Drew and his adventurous spirit close. He will be missed. Our family will keep you in our prayers.
Denise Paul
November 13, 2018
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. My heart goes out to you and your family!
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