Andrew Paul Braden

Born on July 16, 1959, Andrew Paul Braden of Phoenix, AZ, formerly of Indianapolis, IN, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2025, after a courageous life-long battle with cancer. Andrew's resilience and determination through countless surgeries, radiation treatments, and targeted chemotherapy inspired all who knew him.

Andrew's life was marked by his incredible talents and passions. A man of great logic and mechanical aptitude, he could repair almost anything, from plumbing and electrical to mechanical projects, and had a knack for working on pre-computer-age automobiles. He was ambidextrous, a skilled cook, and possessed the rare talent of maneuvering vehicles with trailers like a pro. These talents showcased his curiosity and resourcefulness.

Though Andrew's life took unexpected turns, he followed paths that reflected his love for learning and problem-solving. Initially considering careers as a mechanic or even a pilot, he ultimately found his calling in engineering. His studies at Indiana University/Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) led to a successful career in Production Management. Along the way, he pursued further education, including a Master of Science in Management, showing his dedication to self-improvement and perseverance. These achievements were made possible, in part, by his employers who valued his ambition and supported his growth.

For Andrew, his greatest achievement wasn't measured by degrees or promotions, but rather by the loving family he built with his high school sweetheart and wife, Kathy, his steadfast partner and best friend through all of life's joys and challenges. He was endlessly proud of his children, Andrea and Christopher, and cherished the adult relationships he shared with them. The love of his grandchildren, Harper and Axel, brought him immense joy.

Andrew lived by a simple yet profound motto: "Be honest, be respectful, and remember family always comes first." His belief in the importance of honesty, fidelity, respect, family, and humor were the guiding principles of his life, leaving a last impact on all who knew him.

Though his illness altered his path and limited his ability to travel as he had hoped, Andrew's life was a testament to perseverance, love, and integrity. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable talents and achievements but also for the legacy of love and strength he leaves behind.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Kathleen A. Braden; his daughter, Andrea L. (Braden) Roberts (Steven); his son, Christopher W. Braden; his grandchildren, Harper L. Roberts and Axel B. Roberts; his sister, Katherine E. (Braden) Conway (Joseph); his nieces and nephews, Lauren Fogle (Kyle), Madelyn Shanahan (Adam), Nathan Conway (fiance Lily), Lisa Fox (Chuck), David Fruecht (Heather), Sarah Fruecht, Robb Lombard (Ron), Angie Prophet (Greg), Marc Buchanan (Ann), Rachel Humphrey (Brian), Steven Elsbury (Nancy), Duane Elsbury (Tracy), and Julie Wilson (Kyle). He is also survived by several cousins, extended family members, and close family friends.

Andrew is preceded in death by his mother, Ruth A. (Van Arsdall) Braden; his father, Paul E. Braden; his stepmother, Virginia E. (Treadway) Braden; his sisters, Jean A. Braden and Theresa L. (Braden) Fruecht; and his nephew, Bryan Buchanan.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Andrew's memory may be made to Hospice of the Valley, https://www.hov.org/donate/.