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1961 - 2021

BORN

1961

DIED

2021

Andrew Merskin Obituary

Andrew Merskin

Palm Springs- - Andrew Merskin was born in Texas on November 16, 1961 to Guy and Nancy (Powers) Merskin and instantly was dubbed their favorite (only) son. Andrew forged a 59 year trail of laughter, kindness, wit and wisdom. He passed on February 9, 2021 at Desert Regional in Palm Springs, surprising everyone.

He will be greatly missed by his friend, partner and husband Sven Vennen. Meeting in 1993 they quickly became friends, then partners, then husbands in 2013. Andrew will also be missed by his father Guy, his much older sister Kathleen Merskin, younger sister Mary Culshaw (Mike), Nephew Auguste Wicke, Jackie Comras who he introduced as his mother-in-law (but really wasn't), as well as many, many friends.

Andrew passed knowing that Uncle Buck was the best movie ever, and that everyone loved to be honked and waved at, even if they only looked slightly familiar. Although less than an average life span, Andrew did not live an average life. He traveled, he sang, he laughed inappropriately, he could make up a witty commentary on any situation and make anyone around him laugh when they really shouldn't. He was also the most organized person on this planet.

No services are currently planned, but the idea of a celebration of life this November on what would have been his 60th birthday is in consideration if COVID restrictions are lifted. For those interested feel free to share your memories while enjoying a delicious green apple martini. It's what Andrew would have wanted.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Desert Sun from Mar. 2 to Mar. 7, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Merskin

Sponsored by thedesertsun.com.

16 Entries

Andy Merskin

September 17, 2021

I didn't get to meet Andrew in person, but I wanted to share a funny story of how we met. It turns out we are cousins -- I am his 1st cousin, once removed, son of Richard Merskin.

My mother was looking for my profile on Facebook when she found another person named "Andrew Merskin", and told me that it clearly wasn't me.

So I went and looked and confirmed that: yes, she was in fact right!

Not two weeks later, Andrew reached out to me in a private message and remarked that we had the same name (I'm also Andrew, legally), and from there we shared our stories and family ties. I've since lost those messages unfortunately (thanks Facebook).

He later emailed me some great information about the Merskin family provided by Guy Merskin, and I learned that our last name was originally Myszkowski.

I'm saddened that physical distance and this pandemic never afforded us an opportunity to meet sometime, but I believe our mutual hope in Heaven and the places Jesus is preparing for us will give us yet another chance!

Blessings and condolences for his departure, and much love to you all.

Andy

Dennis G James

June 3, 2021

My Dear Friend Andrew. You will be greatly missed and loved by all who knew you. So many beautiful memories. We knew each other since the early 1980s in the Detroit area, Michigan State and Birmingham. Andrew always put people in a good mood. His wit, intelligence and kindness were boundless. When I visited in Palm Springs, Andrew and Sven treated me like family and I am so grateful to have been a part of their lives, even though the miles separated us. God Bless Always, Dennis James

Connie Davidson

March 11, 2021

Sven, so sorry to hear about your loss. I did not have the pleasure of knowing Andrew but I do know that while he was with you he was having the time of his life. Love from the entire Moore family. Connie

Andrea

March 6, 2021

Oh Andrew – I remember you chuckling with glee when the best practical joke ever was revealed. And as I was swearing at you then and for months afterward - when you were still laughing. You will be missed as much as you were adored.

Patrick Jordan

March 5, 2021

Oh Poodle - Noodle will be remembered with such love in my heart. He was so smart with a super sharp tongue that I just loved almost as much as you. He will be missed but not forgotten at all and the great thing is that each time I think of Andrew I have the biggest grin on my face. Sending you love and a Cheshire cat grin myself Sven. XOXO PJ

Deb Merskin

March 5, 2021

Sharing a nice moment from our Ludington, MI summer family gatherings. Caption?

Hon. Joel Agron and Alan Scott

Planted Trees

Alan Scott

March 5, 2021

I don't know where to start - like all of you who were lucky enough to know Andrew. He lit up every room he was in with his infectious smile and silly jokes and antics. I was honored to work with Caballeros - the Gay Mens' Chorus of Palm Springs when Andrew was a member and then a board member. He and my husband and Michael N. ALWAYS sat in the back row of the Baritone section where they thought they could get away with the most mayhem. How many times Andrew would leave StreetBar after rehearsal saying over his shoulder, "Drive real fast and run red lights!" But Andrew wasn't just silliness. He was fundamentally kind and loving and really took joy in spreading happiness to everyone he met - including the strangers at whom he blew his car horn and waved. He is a cherished gift in my life and my husband's, as are you Sven. Joel and I send our love and support and warmest thoughts and prayers for strength and peace as you adjust. God speed Andrew. Drive fast and run red lights on your journey.

Carole H.

March 5, 2021

Sven, I'm so sorry to hear that you lost your beloved Andrew.

Deb Merskin

March 4, 2021

Andy and I were cousins. Our dads are/were brothers. Andy was one of the funniest, most animated, driven people I know. Ever since we were kids, focused and on task. If you wanted an opinion (well ok, ask any Merskin and you’ll get an opinion) he had that at the ready and was usually right. His wit, sharp responses, keen eys and steadfastness were/are legendary. I’ll so miss you Andy, deciding what we’d have for meals, making legendary food for our family gatherings, our little fights for which movie we’d all watch, are so near and dear. If ever there’s a decision to make, I’ll ask myself WWAD?

Lyndall

March 4, 2021

Sven, in the 35 years we’ve been friends I’ve never known you to be as happy as you were with Andrew in your life. Few people in the world have such fortune. May his memory always be a blessing.
Love,
Lyndall

CR Silva

March 4, 2021

Oh Sven ~ I am so, so sorry! What a terrible shock. My experience of Andrew was virtually/literally always upbeat. An unmatched wit coupled with that occasional hint of sarcasm. Always with a smile! Always eager to assist wherever & however needed!
God Bless & GodSpeed!
Loving hugs, CR

Buck Irwin

March 4, 2021

Andrew was a sweet friend who left this world way too soon. I will miss him dearly.

Robin L Black

March 4, 2021

Dear Sven,
I am so sorry for your loss. May your years of happy memories spent with Andrew bring you comfort at this difficult and sad time.
Sending love and healing prayers,
Robin L. Black

Dick Taylor

March 4, 2021

He was sweet and a joy to be with! I am so sorry to learn of his passing! Sending a prayer for Andrew along with love for Sven!♥♥

Maritza

March 4, 2021

So deeply saddened to hear the news of Andrew’s passing. I will remember him as sweet, kind, happy go lucky and fun-loving with a great sense of humor. Sending prayers to Sven and his family and friends.

Maritza Rojas

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