Andy was born in Oakland, CA on April 1, 1947 to Paul Andrew and Margaret Ruth Abbas. He graduated from Hoover High School in Fresno in 1965 and continued his education at Diablo Valley College, Stanislaus State College, Denver Seminary and Fuller Seminary.
On July 18, 1970, Andy married JoAnn Elaine Thompson in Turlock, CA and shortly after began his journey as a youth pastor. From Turlock, his ministry took him to Colorado, Minnesota, and eventually back to the central valley in 1990 where he became Pastor at Lakeside Community Church in Hanford, CA, and also served as Police Chaplain for the Hanford Police Department. Andy felt passionate about sharing the Good News and helping those in need through his ministry at Lakeside. His love for serving others was also reflected by his missionary work in India, Africa, Central America, Mexico and Arizona, as well as his work with the youth camps at Mt. Hermon, Sugar Pine and Camp Victory mentoring young people.
He enjoyed the company of others, whether driving his three sons to 7-Eleven for late night snacks, talking about cars, doing a ride along with an officer, or meeting at a favorite restaurant…always with a desire to help others work through life issues. He said a cup of coffee went a long way when you had someone to share it with.
Andy leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife, JoAnn of Hanford; his sons, Timothy Andrew Abbas and his wife Gina of San Diego, Stephen Paul Abbas of Hanford and Jonathan Mark Abbas and his wife Kristin of Orange; his sister, Peggy Abbas Morrison and her husband Stan and their daughter Meaghan of Benicia, CA; his grandchildren, Joshua, Jenna and two forthcoming; extended family and many friends.
Andy was preceded in death by his father, Paul in 1989 and his mother, Ruth, in 2010.
A service in celebration of Andy’s life will be held on Saturday, June 4 at 11am at First Presbyterian Church in Hanford, CA. Reverend Dan Schauer will preside.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lakeside Community Church Youth Camp Scholarship Fund, 16942 10th Ave., Hanford, CA 93230.
Condolences may be offered at www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to People’s Funeral Chapel, 501 N. Douty St., Hanford, CA 93230. (559) 584-5591
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