Andrew J Lechner

Andrew John "Andy" Lechner Passed away peacefully with his family at his side on January 23, 2012. Andy was born in Cleveland, Ohio on September 12, 1927. He graduated from Lorain High School in June of 1944 at the age of 16, the same year that he met his future wife. After completing one year at Notre Dame University, Andy enlisted in US Army Air Force serving as an aircraft mechanic, stationed in the Aleutian Islands. After completing his service he returned to Notre Dame University and soon after married the love of his life, Genevieve "Jeanie" Misner on August 7, 1948. In 1950 he earned his degree in mechanical engineering. Over the next 40 years Andy and Jean moved around the country following his illustrious career, relocating from Ohio to West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, California, North Carolina, and eventually settling in Washington for their retirement close to family. Throughout his life Andy was a truly generous spirit. He was a man of faith and demonstrated this through his work with the Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul, and Bread & Roses here in Olympia, the place he came to call home. Andy enjoyed traveling to visit his children and grandchildren, who are scattered across the country. Every fall he cheered on his beloved Fighting Irish, never missing a game. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his strong work ethic, and his never-ending devotion to his family. Andy was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jeanie. He is survived by his sister Beatrice Ellis and her family, his niece Audrey Kastl (Cliff), his seven children, Susan, Andrew (Victoria), Kathleen, James (Michele), Carolyn (John), Richard (Laura), and Robert, and his ten grandchildren, Mary (Boyd), Jessica, Jay (Katherine), Melissa (Trevor), Nicholas (Maria), Justin, Jared, Andrew, Matthew (Kaeley), and Stephen A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2012 at St. Michael's Church in Olympia at 10:30 a.m. with a reception to follow. A private interment will be held afterwards at Calvary Cemetery. The family requests that donations be directed in Andy's name to the Providence St. Peter's Foundation, Fund #207 for Integrative Cancer Care, 413 Lilly Road NE, Olympia WA 98506.