Andrea Wasmer Durkee

Andrea Wasmer Durkee, a caring mother, loving grandmother, loyal sister, devoted friend, and longtime member of the Chatham community, passed away on Wednesday October 15th, 2025, after a long-fought health battle. Born in Rockville Centre, New York, Andrea spent her early years in Chappaqua, where she attended the Horace Greeley School System. As a teenager, she worked at the Chappaqua Pharmacy as an associate—her first experience in a life spent supporting others through hard work, dedication, and all with a grounded and humble spirit. Some of Andrea’s fondest memories growing up were made during family trips to Nana and Dadda's (grandparents) cabin in Vermont and summer vacations in Chatham. Playing in the marshes, relaxing on the beach, and helping her mom with various projects shaped her lifelong love for nature and family. As Andrea navigated school, work, and friends, she found enjoyment in her successes and graduated high school in 1970. After moving to Chatham in 1979, she began working at Doyle's News in Brewster before finding her true professional home at Chatham Fish and Lobster Company in 1982 as a bookkeeper. Andrea truly loved working at Chatham Fish and it quickly became clear that this position was more than just a job—it was an extension of her family. Additionally, Andrea was a woman of tradition and quiet resilience. She enjoyed reading, music, traveling, crafting in her younger years, and meaningful adventures with friends—from Quebec to the local grocery store. She was always up for something new. But when she was home, and it was quiet, she enjoyed more than anything cuddling with her cats, who were her beloved velcro companions, and watching TV. Her work ethic and values will continue to live on in those who knew and loved her. Andrea was preceded in death by her brother Kenneth Wasmer of Harvard, MA, husband Ray Durkee of Chatham, MA and son Jim Wasmer of Northfield, VT. She is survived by her brother Walter Wasmer Jr. of New York City, NY, her daughter Danielle Durkee of Greenwood, ME her daughter-in-law Christy Jo Wasmer and granddaughters Kylie Jo Wasmer and Kira Wasmer of Northfield, VT. Andrea also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and a sea of friends. Her friendships were the support that she drew upon many times throughout her courageous fight over the years. Her life was marked by quiet strength, steadfast dedication to her family, and a deep sense of gratitude for the simple joys that made life meaningful, including her friendships, adventures, travels. Andrea took great pride in her work, but even more in being present with her children. Whether at school events, concerts, or attending games, Andrea never missed a chance to support her children. Andrea wished to express her deep gratitude to those who supported her throughout her life and final journey. She was thankful every day for the love she gave and received. She will be missed—and remembered always.

Please join us for a celebration of life on Saturday, November 8th from 1-4pm at Nickerson Funeral Home, 87 Crowell Road, Chatham, MA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to:

-Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer or to The United States War Dogs Association.