Andrew Jonathan Saunders

Andrew went to school in Ridgecrest, CA where he found a love for playing music in jazz band with the trumpet, as well as playing guitar almost nonstop with his many friends. In addition to his musical talent, Andrew was also an accomplished discus thrower, being voted MVP two years in a row before competing in a CIF Championship.

Andrew joined the US Army after high school. Once he graduated from basic training at the top of his class, he went to Apache helicopter mechanic training, where he also graduated top of his class. After tours in Ansbach, Germany, and Afghanistan, Andrew learned that he had been accepted into flight school, realizing his dream. After graduating from warrant officer school, he finished flight school as the “Distinguished Graduate.” He was then assigned as a Blackhawk pilot at Fort Carson, CO, where he was living at the time of his death.

Andrew lived life to the fullest and brought out the best in everyone who knew him. He loved deeply and made lifelong friendships at every turn of his life.

Andrew is survived by his mother Susan Lasell, step-father Richard Lasell, brother Brian Hoppus, and sister Sarah Hoppus. A visitation will be held at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA on September 15 from 4 - 8pm. He will be celebrated at 9:30am on Wednesday, September 16, at March Air Force Base Chapel, followed by burial at 11:30am in the Riverside National Cemetery.