Lt. Andrew Wade Hill

Lieutenant Andrew "Drew" Wade Hill, 52, of Windsor Locks, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 15, 2025, while performing his final act of kindness-a community service project building a deck for an ill veteran. A devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Drew lived a life of service, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his community. Born on December 27, 1972, in Charleston, West Virginia, Drew was the beloved son of Ralph G. and Elizabeth Ann (Jarrett) Hill of Windsor Locks. He grew up in Rock Island, IL, and graduated from Rock Island High School in 1991. After attending Western Illinois University, he answered a higher calling and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving as a Combat Engineer from 1992 until his honorable discharge in 1998. It was during his time in the Marines that he met the love of his life, Michelle (Haiko) Hill, to whom he was married for 30 wonderful years. In 2001, Drew and Michelle settled in Windsor Locks, where they built a home, raised their family, and became integral members of the community. For 21 years, Drew worked as a GSE Specialist for Bombardier, where his expertise and dedication were highly valued. That same year, he joined the Windsor Locks Fire Department, beginning a 24-year legacy of service. Promoted to Lieutenant in 2023, he also served as an Apparatus Steward and played a vital role in coordinating community events such as the annual carnival, Torch Light Parade, and Trunk-or-Treat. Beyond the firehouse, Drew devoted countless hours to supporting veterans, ensuring they felt seen, appreciated, and cared for. Drew embraced life with enthusiasm, especially when it came to the outdoors. He loved camping at Wawaloam Campground in Rhode Island, fishing, and kayaking. A passionate sports fan, he cheered for the Boston Bruins and UConn Huskies with unwavering loyalty. Above all, Drew was a loving husband and a devoted father to his two cherished daughters, Amber and Kayleigh Hill, who will forever carry his love and guidance in their hearts. He is also survived by his sister, Erin Washington; his niece, Nadine Washington; his mother and father-in-law, Kathy and Kevin Peterson; and his extended family at the Windsor Locks Fire Department. Relatives and friends may pay their respects during calling hours on Thursday, March 20, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Windsor Locks Funeral Home, 441 Spring Street, Windsor Locks, CT. A funeral procession will gather on Friday, March 21, at 9 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Mary Gate of Heaven Parish, St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 52 South Elm Street, Windsor Locks, CT. Burial with full Military Honors will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Windsor Locks Fire Department Social Service, PO Box 113, Windsor Locks, CT 06096. Drew lived with purpose, served with honor, and loved with all his heart. Though he is gone too soon, his legacy of kindness and service will live on in the many lives he touched. For online condolences, please visit www.windsorlocksfuneralhome.com.