Andrew Hector Reyes

Andrew Hector Reyes, age 41, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away on Saturday, July 17, 2021. Andrew was born June 15, 1980 in Smithville, MO. Andrew, or “Drew” was the second born son of Damian Reyes and Rosa Noyola. Ultimately, Andrew would wind up the second of six boys. His brothers Damian, Luke, Simon, Jacob and Thomas were the light of his life and he relished growing up in the busy home that was his.

As a small child, it was easy to see that Andrew had an affinity to attract others. His positive attitude, radiant smile and relentless sense of humor brought joy to everyone around him. Beginning with his family, he would constantly make his brothers, cousins and other family members laugh hysterically. We could always depend on Drew to make us happy. No matter what.

As he grew in his adolescent and teenage years, his natural ability to make people laugh grew as well. Quick-wit and ability to find hilarity in any situation were hallmarks of Drew’s humor. This talent coupled with a developing self-awareness and emotional intelligence helped foster so many beautiful friendships for him.

Following graduation from Bishop Miege high school, God granted Andrew a calling that he would fall in love with. He was able to secure a highly competitive position as an anesthesia technician for Children’s Mercy Hospital. And, he loved working there. Sure he was proud of the job. But he loved working with children; and the kids seemed to love the big kid in him too. His kind heart and gentle spirit were perfect qualities for this mission. Later, he would use the training and experience to land similar positions within operating rooms around the city.

If you knew Andrew, you also know that he loved his sports. I mean really loved his sports. He was a die- hard Mizzou and Chiefs fan and he would defend those teams to the end. Win or lose. No matter what. You were not winning an argument or swaying his mind. He was loyal that way.

You also know that Drew didn’t just love cheering and watching sports. He loved, loved, loved to play them as well. Especially as a kid. He would spend hours and hours outside, in the comforting neighborhood of Westport playing basketball, baseball, football- it didn’t matter. At the “Red Church”, GA parking lot, or some random field somewhere behind an apartment complex. He just loved playing.

His true love though was basketball. As an atypical short-stuff guard, he possessed an uncanny ability to hit 3s- right in your face! He didn’t care if you were taller than him or not. He’d pull up and knock it down. His freshman coach once said he was the best shooter who never got the chance to play Varsity. Stories vary but I personally witnessed a game where he made 9 threes!

More than anything, Andrew loved life and everything that it brought. I mean everything. He would dance his little dances, jam out to his favorite songs on repeat, walk and run at the park because he loved nature and being around people. He loved attending Catholic Mass and the listening to the stories of the Bible. He loved being around friends. Loved his family. He was proud of his Mexican heritage and would balance that with his love to be an American. It was all love, all the time for Drew.

There are so many stories unwritten. Stories that can only be told word of mouth. Stories about Drew that will last a lifetime. This is the way he lives on through us.

Toward the end he loved watching video clips of old movies. I think in final that he wouldn’t mind leaving you with one of his favorite movie lines. One he’d watch over and over recently.

“Remember, my sentimental friend, that a heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others” – The Wizard of Oz

A visitation for Andrew will be held Wednesday, July 28, 2021 from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 7023 W. 71st Street, Overland Park, KS 66204. A rosary service will occur Wednesday, July 28, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 10:15 AM, 7023 W. 71st Street, Overland Park, KS 66204. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at 10:30 AM at Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 7023 W. 71st Street, Overland Park, KS 66204. The committal service will occur immediately following the Mass on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 8321 Quivira Road, Lenexa, KS 66215.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleyhoge.com for the Reyes family.