Edward William Andres Obituary (1928 - 2017)

Edward William Andres, 88, of Decatur Illinois passed away on Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he wintered for 25 years and spent the last few years of his life. Ed was born on August 4, 1928 in Decatur to Henry and Lillian Andres. He grew up in Decatur and after graduating from Stephen Decatur High School in 1946 went on to serve in the Army during the Korean War. Ed was an auto mechanic at his fathers garage, Hank Andres Garage, for 20 years, and later was employed at local auto dealerships. He is predeceased by his Mother and Father, wife Joyce and sister Marjorie. He had no children. Eds Uncle, Emil Andres, drove in nine Indy 500 races and Ed loved racing, following it with great passion. He retired at age 60 and enjoyed many years of large model plane building and model plane racing, both in Decatur and in Scottsdale. He was a member of the Decatur Aero Commanders R/C Club, the Loren Hodge Chapter 274 of the Experimental Aircraft Association, the Indy 500 Collectors Club and the Sun Valley Flyers of Arizona. Ed and his love of 27 years, Gwen Jeske, also of Decatur, spent many happy hours ballroom dancing as well as country western, line and square dancing. They explored the Southwest at every opportunity and often attended fairs and festivals. Ed was also a bingo buff. He played both violin and banjo, and was fond of country western music. Ed bravely fought several types of cancer during his final years. Ed and Gwen were snowbirds, traveling between Decatur and Scottsdale with their dog, Chi Chi, their happy, furry traveling companion. Ed was affiliated with Trinity Lutheran Church. He will be missed and remembered forever by those who loved him and those whom he loved. A memorial service to celebrate and honor Eds life will be held on August 4, 2017, at 11 am at his gravesite in Graceland Cemetery in Decatur. Dawson and Wikoff West Wood Street Funeral Home is assisting with local arrangements. Memorials to the American Cancer Society please. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.dawson-wikoff.com.