Andrew John East

Born to Douglas and Audrey East in Newport, Wales on May 29, 1955. Andy grew up in a loving home with his younger sister, Linda. He spent the first half of his life in Wales where he met and married his teenage sweetheart, Sue, in 1975. Shortly after, Andy and Sue welcomed two children, Nicola and Matthew, and began their next adventure bringing them to Virginia in the 90s.

Andy was a remarkable hard worker and was always looking for the next challenge. Beginning his career as an electrical engineer, Andy eventually moved into the world of manufacturing, ending his successful tenure in safety and compliance. By dedicating himself to each of his positions throughout his career, Andy was blessed with many lifelong “mates” over the years to which he was incredibly grateful.

He was well known for his sense of humor, and his infectious laugh – often at his own jokes. Andy took great delight in his retirement, and truly enjoyed his newfound friendships at Colonial Heritage. Second to spending time with Sue, he was always most happy when with his grandchildren. Of all his accomplishments, his role as Dee was by far his favorite. Indeed, the center of his world; Rhys, Cadyn, Keegan, Olive, and Hazel could not have found a more loving, caring and fun grandfather. Spoiling them at every turn, Andy truly reveled in the relationships he had with each of his grandchildren.

Andy was an avid golfer (beaten only one time by his son Matthew), world traveler, and beer enthusiast. He loved working on house projects…ever reluctant to hire help since no one could complete a task as well as him 😊 And while he would never ask for help, he was always the first to offer. Helping family, friends, and even strangers was always a natural practice for him.

Andy is survived by his loving wife, Sue, their children Nicola and Matthew, their spouses Brian and Julie, and grandchildren Rhys, Cadyn, Keegan, Olive and Hazel. Andy will be missed by all who had the pleasure of meeting him, and will be lovingly remembered by his family who will honor and celebrate his life each day. The world doesn’t seem quite as bright without him.

His service will be held on Thursday, November 10, at 11 am at Nelsen Funeral Home – 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. There will be a short reception following the service and then pints and food in honor of Andy at Craft 31 – 3701 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations to the American Heart Association be made in his name.