Andrew White McGhee

Andrew W. McGhee, of Chicago and Lakeside, Michigan, died peacefully at home December 16, 2016. Born in 1931 in Pittsburgh to Katherine Easton McGhee and John Francis McGhee, he moved with his family to Los Angeles in 1938, where he was raised by his mother and stepfather, Dr. William Norris. He attended Beverly Hills High School and the Lawrenceville School, and was graduated from Stanford University in 1952 with a BS in Civil Engineering. He married the late Karen Maxfield McGhee in 1954. They were married for over fifty years.

After two years as an officer in the U.S. Navy, based out of Japan, he returned to California where he worked for the Pyrex Company. In 1962, Andy moved his family to Chicago. “It was the best decision we ever made,” he always said.

In Chicago, he worked in manufacturing until 1972, when he founded his own company, Packaging Systems, which he later sold to National Can. After, he devoted his time to the City of Chicago, serving as Chairman of the Newberry Library, the Latin School, and the Racquet Club of Chicago, and on the boards of Off the Street Club, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository, amongst others. He deeply adored Chicago and all of his friends there. He also leaves behind scores of beloved friends and family in California.

Andy loved a good game – tennis, dominos, and bridge - and will be remembered for his graciousness, generosity, curiosity, and wit. You always knew when he was in the room.

Andy is survived by his three daughters, Kristen Boothe (Tom) of Portland, OR, Drew McGhee (Peter Davidson) of Brooklyn, NY, and Easton Stevenson (Jay) of Chicago; seven grandchildren; his sisters Ann Zink, Virginia Dickinson (George), and Nancy Burris; his sister-in-law Carol McGhee; and his dear friend Carol Graham. His brother John predeceases him. Andy will be remembered on Wednesday, February 1, at one o’clock, at the Racquet Club of Chicago. Donations may be made in his name to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, the Newberry Library, or Off the Street Club.