Andy W. McHugh

An easy going man who enjoyed life and all it had to offer with those he loved by his side, Andy McHugh was beloved by everyone who knew him. He had an endearing sense of humor, and his love for making those around him laugh brightened the days of many. Andy’s kindhearted nature was unending as he always placed the needs of others before his own. One of a kind, Andy will be forever remembered in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

The year 1963 was a turning point in the history of America as the culture of the U.S. was moving along at a rapid pace. Fashions became more daring, and the introduction of “Beatlemania” forever changed the music scene. An age of innocence was lost with the assassination of President Kennedy while mounting trouble in Vietnam and the continued campaign for civil rights was news of the day. In the lives of Herbert and Marjory (Swander) McHugh, however, the hope of better tomorrows throughout these changing times was evident when they welcomed the birth of their son, Andy into their arms on February 5, 1963.

Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Andy was the youngest of the boys in the McHugh home. A young boy typical of his generation, Andy joined his siblings, Scott, Terry, Alan, and Peggy in their bustling home. His father worked in the air conditioning and refrigeration trade while his mother remained at home as a homemaker. Throughout his youth, Andy enjoyed numerous adventures with neighborhood friends and he found his share of shenanigans with his brothers, too! Happy-go-lucky right from the start, Andy enjoyed the companionship of several family dogs as a kid who were never far from his side.

Having attended the local schools, Andy was well known for being the class clown with his fun-loving and humorous ways. He played football in high school, and during his senior year, he landed a job working at Long John Silvers. It was also while in high school when Andy met the love of his life, Lyn. They began dating, and they soon became high school sweethearts. After graduating from Plainwell High School in 1982 and with a deep, abiding love, Andy and Lyn were happily married that very year on November 13, 1982, in Kalamazoo.

Andy and Lyn soon shared the love of children in their lives with the births of Katie and Lance. Andy loved being a father and he took an active role in his children’s lives. He was always involved in their activities, and he was sure to be there for them at each of their events. For a time, he served as a coach for his daughter’s softball and his son’s baseball and football teams. Many family memories were made and enjoyed taking trips around Michigan and spending time in South Haven. Even having fun family time together in the yard created treasures of memories always to be remembered. Andy’s continued love for family pets remained and as a family, they always had cats, dogs, and birds to enjoy.

Ever the hard worker, Andy provided a good home and family life for those entrusted to his care. Having always worked in the meat industry, he began as a meat cutter and worked his way up to journeyman and manager. He was employed with Save-A-Lot. Although Andy liked a good, tender steak, he loved going to Red Lobster and he always liked Chinese restaurants and Asian cuisine. Fond memories and great times were also shared each year when Andy headed up north for a boys weekend with his father, brothers and nephews Brian and Josh. These cherished times were filled with much laughter and reminiscing, and no less several stories to tell! In his free time, Andy liked to golf. He was also a huge Detroit Tigers and Lions fan and he was always watching sports on TV.

With his light-hearted ways, bringing laughter to the days of others was typical of Andy. Outgoing and friendly, he was a humble man who never required much to be happy. Andy’s kindness and generosity served others well as he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Most importantly, he was very proud of his children, and in his family and good friends he found the greatest joy. Deeply missed, Andy will be fondly remembered by those who knew and loved him best.

Andy McHugh, age 53, of Plainwell, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at his home. Visit with his family and friends and view his life story film on Saturday, May 21, 2016, from 10-11 a.m. at the Life Story Funeral Home, Plainwell; 120 Woodhams St. (685-5881) where his funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Andy’s family includes his wife of 33 years, Lyn; his parents; his children: Katie Lyn (Jake Bleeker) McHugh and Lance Andrew McHugh; siblings: Scott (Pam) McHugh, Terry (Linda) McHugh, Peggy (Nate) Vlietstra, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Alan McHugh. Please visit Andy’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a favorite memory or photo of Andy and sign his memory book online.