Tory Edward Andrews

Tory was a lifelong resident of Dighton. He was educated in the Dighton schools and was a Dighton-Rehoboth High School Graduate, class of 2004.

Like most individuals, Tory was very complex. He sometimes struggled in high school math class, but he was always able to win math-based card games...even when loopy on pain meds while waiting for a heart transplant. As a boy he was as curious as a cat, which had the downside of him finding out the hard way that broken glass cuts flesh and stepping on sewing needles hurts. Tory wasn't someone that told jokes, but he always had a subtle smile on his face like he saw something funny about life that you didn't notice.

Tory was always willing to lend a helping hand to everyone and he especially loved helping and spending time with children. He was a wonderful Uncle to his nephews Conner, Cole and Isaac. He loved teaching Conner and Cole about gun safety and joining them in firing many rounds of target practice while ensuring they kept all of their fingers and toes intact!

Tory worked for Dave’s Fresh Marketplace as a maintenance technician. During the COVID-19 pandemic he was proud to be an “essential worker” and help his community stay fed. And he definitely enjoyed the perks of free food!

Tory is survived by his mother Lorie (Andrews) Van Hook and her husband John of Dighton, brother Kyle Van Hook of Lakeville and his wife Danielle, his Grandmother (Grammy) Cheryl Longton of Dighton and her husband David (whom Tory affectionately called “Grumpy”), and many other family members residing in Massachusetts and southern California.

The family would like to thank the many health care professionals who helped Tory survive childhood leukemia at age 3 and made it possible for Tory to have a heart transplant at age 17. The family is also eternally grateful to the wonderful community of people, many of whom the family never had the pleasure of meeting, who were so kind in helping and supporting Tory during his many childhood medical procedures.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life from 11am to 3pm on Sunday October 10th at 7 Hill Street, Lakeville.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Tory’s name.