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Andrew Schenck Obituary
Andrew “Drew” Eugene Schenck, 45, was killed instantly as a passenger in a car accident in California on February 1, 2014. A Valparaiso native, Andrew was a well-loved son, brother, and friend. At Valparaiso High School he was an Indiana State Champion and All American Swimmer as well as an Academic All American. At Indiana University he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Environmental Affairs. Drew worked to further the field of outdoor education for over 25 years, most recently with disadvantaged youth in Yosemite National Park as a naturalist for Green Meadows Outdoor School. He shared his knowledge, skill and joy across six continents. His absence will be felt around the globe. Drew is survived by his parents: Bob and Liz Schenck; his brothers and sister: Mark, Brett, and Kathleen. The services will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1700 Monticello Park Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation at 10:00 a.m. Bartholomew Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
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Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Schenck
Sponsored by Joseph and Michael Johsnton.
September 3, 2022
I miss him still, and with every season, I think of all the things he loved - and everything he wanted to do with each possible minute.
He loved music, and he loved people. He most likely created and gave you a CD/tape, with a scribbled title written in sharpie and a warm bottle of wine pulled out of a secret stash.
This was a compilation of music he made- I'm sure he would love to have you all listen with him.
https://www.jango.com/users/41457224
Kathleen Schenck
February 12, 2021
I just returned to this page to read again so many loving thoughts about Drew, whose birthday is tomorrow. I miss him every day and always wil. But his spirit lives on. Thank you for all of your kind words. P.S. Good one, Joe : ).
Joe
November 26, 2017
So I keep on having a good beer (or two) in honor of Uncle Drew and it dawned on me that to this very day, he is still trying to get me drunk.
Some things will never change.
I miss you pal...
September 24, 2017
still thinking of his light in our lives, and how he made each of us brighter.
February 27, 2016
Keeping his memory alive. He was a wonderful,spontaneous,caring human being.Our world was a better place. I miss him dearly. Loved his letters and adventures.
Signa Gundlach
February 26, 2016
I was thinking about traveling through Mexico and California in my 20s now that I'm approaching 40. Thinking about those special years at Astrocamp, Shangu came to mind and my heart glistened and sank instantly. He was such a light of love and hope in this world--a true kindred spirit. I hope wherever he is that his soul is as happy and free and at peace as it was when he walked the Earth.
Stella Finfrock
November 3, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear about this accident and can't imagine the loss you all feel. There was always a warmth and a joy whenever Shangu entered a room. I worked with him at Astrocamp and will not forget him.
Gil Walker
November 1, 2014
Shangu was a program instructor at Astro Camp in Idyllwild in 2000. I had the pleasure of hiring him and then keeping in touch with him while he was in Madagascar and Peru. I so admired him, his philosophy and spirit of adventure. I just learned of his death. I am so sorry and shocked. He was truly a wonderful human being.I will never forget him. I am glad to hear the Pathfinder is naming a trailhead after him. He leaves us a wonderful legacy of love and peace towards nature and us.
Joseph Andrew Johnston
September 29, 2014
My name is Joseph Andrew Johnston i am the son of my uncles best friend. i am so proud to say my full name whenever anyone asks because of the man that my uncle was. even though we would only see each other so many times a year i couldn't be more proud to call him my uncle and for him to be my god parent. i love him more than words can describe and my heart aches at the sounds of songs that he told me about. he has impacted my life in such a giant way even if i am only 17 years old. i'll remember everything from playing pool and going to tony's pizza to get pineapple, eggplant, and broccoli on our pizza to the warm hugs he'd come home with after not seeing him for what felt like a lifetime. i love you uncle drew and i love you mama and papa schenck for bringing this man into the lives of all the people he touched over 6 continents. i will never forget you...
Robert Ryder
August 1, 2014
Drew was a great mentor and leader for me, at Stronghold, in the 80's. He was a beautiful, beautiful person. RIP friend.
August 1, 2014
So sad to find this on the internet. I worked with Drew at Stronghold, and loved him dearly. His energy and enthusiasm brightened everyone's day. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Alana McComb Pelren, Tennessee
Karen Harper
March 2, 2014
Bob and Liz,
We are so sorry for your loss of Drew. I was fortunate enough to meetand know of your son Drew. I was able to hear the many adventures he had not only through his own words but that of this father. Bob gave me many pictures (for framing) of treasured trips with his boys, and shared many of the wonderful stories behind them. May all the thousands of memories give you comfort and remind you of how blessed you are and have been. You shared with the world your precious gift - Drew - and for that we all are thankful. With our love and prayers, Jeff and Karen
Gary Kumfert
February 25, 2014
I haven't seen Drew since Alaska 23 years ago. We travelled to hippie fishing villages, logging camps, and remote areas among Alaskan natives. He was an unforgettable character.
Michael Erwin
February 22, 2014
I knew Drew from a summer spent in southeast Alaska. Such a positive energy about him. Sorry to hear of his death.
Julia (Betjemann) O'Brien
February 19, 2014
Drew was such an amazing person - I consider myself lucky to have been able to call him my friend. Deepest condolences for the entire Schenck family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Here's Shangu at Lake Tahoe inspiring Great Basin Outdoor School's early years in 2003.
Sue Jacox
February 13, 2014
Stephanie Brazil
February 12, 2014
Shangu was one of a kind. I traveled with him through his stories around the globe. After his journeys he would always think to bring back gifts for all of us. We will miss Shangu's love of life and nature. He touched so many lives. Thank you Drew for being my friend.
Helen de la Maza
February 11, 2014
Shangu inspired everyone he met with his passion for life and beautiful silliness. Thank you for raising such an awesome kid and sharing him with the world. My thoughts are with you.
Safari
February 11, 2014
Shangu had so many roles on this planet. He was an adventurer, a teacher, a sage, a magician, a friend, a leader, a student of the world and so much more. I was lucky enough to witness him in these roles and was even a recipient if his amazing warmth and kindness. The last time I saw him, it had been more than a year since we had previously seen each other. I was so overjoyed to see him, almost to the point of tears. He stuck with all of us. Even in absence, he sticks with all of us.
Carrie Raleigh
February 11, 2014
Shangu and I worked together for one year at Pathfinder Ranch. I was going through some tough times personally during that time and Shangu was an endless source of encouragement and positivity. I will always treasure the wisdom he shared with me in that year.
Shari Walls
February 11, 2014
Many are joined through his passing, but so many more were joined because of his living. Shangu connected with people in a way that few will ever be able to put accurately into words. My hope is that through our sorrow we will continue to find the inspiration to celebrate, to reach farther, climb higher, and fall deeper into this life that is so incredibly precious.
Drew on a canoe trip
Melissa Katigbak
February 11, 2014
Angie Ziobro
February 11, 2014
I will never forget the many lessons that Shangu taught me while I was a naturalist in California. It was through him that I learned that sometimes laughing, and just going with it is the best way to live. He made a lasting impression on Pathfinder Ranch, California Environmental Education, and the staff that he brought in to work on the mountain.
I'll never forget him, or the knowledge I gained through his guidance and friendship.
You will be missed Shangu.
Last april, before we went on one more crazy jaunt to Mexico
Deanna Erickson
February 11, 2014
I, like a lot of us in outdoor education, only knew Drew as Shangu. Here's what I wrote a few days ago as a tribute to him: My good friend Shangu (Drew) Schenck, passed away unexpectedly over the weekend. We collaborated hard for years, and we built really neat things together. He inspired me and taught me things. He espoused the everyday adventure. I don't know anyone who lived so fully. Sometimes I thought he was crazy. Now I think I get it. I miss him so much, and will continue to do so for a long time. I would love to stay in touch with any family members. I was glad to meet you at the service. I'm at deanna.erickson(at)uwex.edu.
Robin Andrade
February 11, 2014
Dear Liz and family,
Words cannot express my feelings upon learning of the loss of your son, Drew. Please know that love and light surround you during this most painful of times.
sherry & Al Corns
February 11, 2014
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel at the tragic loss of your son Drew. Our hearts go out to you and your family in your time of sorrow. Corns Family
Doc
February 10, 2014
I'll always remember the nights we stayed up far too late, taking turns picking music and playing board games. It was amazing that for months the person I felt I could be the most open with, and speak the most honestly with about my life, also happened to be my boss. Thank you for not only your knack for sharing stories, but your ability to get other people to share theirs.
Julie Dowsing
February 10, 2014
As the occasional nurse at CGMOS, Drew always checked to make sure I was safe and assist me with sick students. A true friend, a joy to chat with - I will miss him immensely as we all will.
Brett Schenck
February 10, 2014
Thank you all for your condolences and nice thoughts about Drew! I am Brett, one of his older brothers. He loved people and nature. He was full of humour and fun. We will miss him. Feel free to leave your contact information. I knew him growing up in our family. But, I am finding through communications with others that Drew contacted, what great things Drew did during this travels.
Chris Funk
February 10, 2014
I have very fond memories of Drew as a kind soul who was a friend to all. I remember looking up to his taste in music and as well being a great athlete who seemed he was straddling both worlds that can be so divided in youth. Much love to his family, he will be missed Chris Funk
Morty and Drew
Greg Morton
February 9, 2014
Drew was the first person I met when I moved to Valpo from Pennsylvania back in 9th grade. I could not have picked a better friend to have met. I knew Drew was special the first minute that I met him. Words can't describe how important he was to me during my high school and college days. Though we hadn't stayed in touch as much as I would have liked since then, I always knew Drew would be a huge contributor to this world...and was he ever! What a life we can all celebrate! One thing about Drew is that I never had anything but the best time of my life whenever I was with him. He had this amazing positive outlook and took each day...each minute and enjoyed life to it's fullest. We all need to have a little bit of Drew with us every day...I know I will. Drew....thank you for the memories and helping all of us realize that we need to live life to its fullest everyday.
Sandy Highlan
February 8, 2014
Our deepest condolences to the entire family. May God give you strength and comfort.
Bob and Liz , So sorry you have to go through this terrible loss.
Vince Delumpa
February 7, 2014
My heartfelt sympathy to Brett, my best friend growing up in Valpo, and his family for the loss of Drew. I remember those days so clearly when I'd see Drew walk into the room. He was so smart and sure of himself. Drew, may God hold you in His hand.
Vince Delumpa
February 7, 2014
Many of us have come to know the world as more than too big and certainly often too lonely, yet at least one thought they knew the depths of the abyss. Shangu's exit one more reminder that I knew not enough of loneliness, and there were still deeper canyons to endure. I hope the other wolves of the Himalayas are well.
Kwaheri, Shangu, Kwaheri
Horse Wrangler, Pathfinder Ranch
February 7, 2014
To the entire Schenck family and friends
We are terribly saddened by the loss of Drew. May God watch over you during this terrible time and comfort you as you heal.
Love and prayers
Dan and Lisa Wareham
Bridgette Decker
February 7, 2014
Dear Liz and Family,
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your son, Andrew.
With so many good memories, may your heart begin to heal with knowing Andrew was Loved by many.
God Bless you and may you feel His loving arms around you today and always. Peace be with you.
taken in 1990 in Bloomington, IN
Jennifer Ferro
February 7, 2014
Claire Hayward
February 7, 2014
All our thoughts and prayers are with this amazing man's family. Where to even begin, my friend. The world will not sparkle the same without you in it. I will miss you walking through my office door every day with your "latest brilliant idea". I still wait for you to come in every day. It just doesn't seem real. You were always trying to find ways to make things better, of course with your own unique twist and flair to it. You touched the lives of so many, children and peers, and will forever leave an imprint on our hearts. Your legacy will live on and I am honored to have called you my friend. Green Meadows Outdoor School will not be the same without your smiling face and amazing zest for life. We all struggle daily without you here. This is not the end...until we meet again, my friend. Gone but truly never ever forgotten... the Red Tailed Hawk.
Jennifer Ferro
February 7, 2014
I knew Drew from Indiana University and have many fond memories of him. He was a loved by everyone and had such a gentle soul...what a loss! My heartfelt condolences go out his family at this difficult time.
Robert Bassett
February 7, 2014
Very early Saturday morning, I received a phone call that three of our Naturalists had been in an accident and that we had lost Drew aka "Shangu".
I was shocked and in disbelief and my heart still aches. In our line of work, we very quickly become more than just workmates, we are family, and losing Shangu has been like losing a family member.
Shangu brought an unmatched experience to our program that made us all want to be better. His love of life and working with kids was contagious.
One of the last conversations we had was sitting around the lunch table on Friday. I was asking everyone what they had learned this week. When it was Shangu's turn he said, “Sometimes it is more important that we let the kids make memories instead of trying to get through what we have planned. There was only three inches on snow on the ground this morning but the kids wanted to make snow angels. So instead of finishing our memory hike, we all made snow angels and it is an experience they will never forget.” It was a good lesson for us all to remember why we do what we do. It is to teach the kids to not just live this life, but to experience it. As we all know, Shangu knew how to experience life!
Thank you Shangu for the time we had with you. We are all better for having known you. I will miss your latest idea and I will miss you my friend.
Bob Bassett
February 7, 2014
Bob and Liz--Incredibly sad to learn about Andrew! My sympathies to you and your family. Barbara Shankland Bolesch
Matt Krysinski
February 7, 2014
Drew had a very, very special gift of giving a little piece of himself to everyone he met. And since Drew was made up primarily of unbounded joy, that's what he gave. There are hundreds if not thousands of people carrying around Drew's joy and passion for life itself. I consider myself so very lucky that I am one of those people.
Andrea Johnston
February 6, 2014
Whether one believes in a religion or not, and whether one believes in rebirth or not, there isn't anyone who doesn't appreciate kindness and compassion.
Dalai Lama
I never met anyone like Drew, so down to earth, so kind, so giving, such a big heart. I will miss my friend, my kids will miss Uncle Drew and my husband will miss is best friend.
I love you Drew
Kathy Hunter
February 6, 2014
I am so sorry. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Melissa Katigbak
February 6, 2014
In our time together , Drew brought me to the most beautiful places. There he took my hand and gently helped me see, feel, laugh, love and breathe in a way i didn't think was possible. I will miss him tremendously.
February 6, 2014
Drew was a good friend to my sons James and Jeff, a best friend with my son, Joe, and a close, honorable uncle to my grandsons, Joe and Mike. His warm, funny, caring presence in their lives will be missed terribly. His wisdom, gentleness and thoughtfulness will be remembered by all who knew him. We can only thank God that we had this wonderful person in our lives, even though for too short a time. Our prayers go out to his loving family and friends. He will remain in our hearts forever. Jeanne Johnston. Munster, Indiana
February 6, 2014
Drew was a good friend to my sons James and Jeff, a best friend to my son, Joe, and a close, honorable uncle to my grandsons, Joe and Mike. They could not have had a warmer, more beautiful person in their lives. He will be sorely missed. I know many other people were deeply touched by his caring, compassionate nature. I can only thank God that we were honored with his presence, even if it was for too short a time. God bless his family and friends, you are in our prayers and Drew is in our hearts forever. Jeanne Johnston
Henry Liu
February 6, 2014
RIP Shangu, one of the most inspiring men I have met so far. You were a great mentor to me while I was in the Galapagos, and I still owe you a frisbee that got buried in the sand on our last day on the islands.. I'm rattled. I can't help but remember all those good times I had with you, either pulling up a leaky can of rotting crap together from the highway in Isabella island, telling us how you got your name "Shangu" while we all sat on the beach, teaching me how to bodyboard and inspiring me to become a surfer or just chucking around a disc. Shangu, you will be missed greatly, truly. I will treasure the words you told me as to how to become a greater leader. Universal nomad, rest in peace.
Midge Rivers
February 6, 2014
Drew was an amazing young man who touched so many lives with his love, caring, gentle heart and his zest for life. May he enjoy eternity surrounded by God's love.
Mike Halus
February 6, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of Drew's death. The family, especiallt Bob and Liz are in our prayers
Andrea Garcia
February 6, 2014
You truly were "Born Under a Wondering Star." My life was enriched through knowing and working with you,
Julie Henderson
February 6, 2014
Drew taught me early in my life to live and enjoy life to the fullest and to stay in the present. His spirit and his pure, sweet heart will live on forever in all of us.
His family are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so grateful to have called him my friend.
Peace, Love, and Harmony Forever.
Ben Bear
February 6, 2014
All of his many California (and beyond) friends are thinking of you all during this difficult time. We certainly will miss his zest for life and heart of gold.
Kathleen Schenck
February 5, 2014
You're my brother and I love you.
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