Obituary
Andrew "Andy" Nelson Block, age 43, of Kalamazoo, passed away unexpectedly on August 18, 2026, in Kalamazoo. He was born January 28, 1983, in Kalamazoo to Wayne and Kristine (Buttery) Block.
Andy was a 2002 graduate of Gull Lake High School, where he was a proud member of the football team. He went on to build a dedicated career at Kaiser Aluminum, serving for many years as a maintenance lead. Andy had an extraordinary ability to figure things out- a natural problem solver and innovative thinker. He remained calm, rational, and steady in even the most challenging situations. He loved to tinker and taught himself to repair just about anything, often finding practical solutions where others saw only obstacles.
Andy was happiest outdoors. An avid hunter, fisherman, and lifelong lover of the outdoors, he cherished every opportunity to spend time in nature. Some of his most treasured memories were made on hunting trips to Alaska and Colorado with his dad Wayne, experiences that reflected the deep bond they shared.
Andy and Wayne were also active members of the Pheasants Forever Southwest Michigan Chapter, where Andy served as vice president for several years. Through his involvement, Andy dedicated his time and passion for conservation and preserving the outdoor traditions that meant so much to him.
In the quieter moments of his evenings, Andy could often be found simply sitting outside, taking in the world around him. He found peace in those moments, reflecting on the blessing's life had given him and appreciating the beauty of the nature that filled his home and his heart.
His creativity extended well beyond his work. Andy found joy in carving and meticulously detailing duck decoys, taking pride in the patience and craftsmanship each one required. Whether working with his hands, solving a problem, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Andy approached everything he did with patience, creativity, and genuine joy.
Above all else, Andy adored his family, especially his daughters, Evelyn and Maggie. He loved teaching them archery, taking them fishing, and sharing with them the beauty and wonder of the great outdoors. He cherished the quieter, playful moments just as much from painting fingernails to playing dollhouse-and found tremendous joy being with his girls.
Andy will be deeply missed by his daughters, Evelyn and Maggie; his parents, Wayne and Kristine Block; his grandparents, Fred and Joan Buttery; his sister, Katie (Aaron) Herrera; his nephew, Jaxson; the mother of his children, Lauren Block; and many beloved cousins, aunts, and uncles. He will also be greatly missed by his trusted and beloved black Lab, Willy.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Wayne and Alareka Block, Aunt: Karen (Buttery) Knight.
A celebration of Andy's life will be held at The Fountains Banquet Center in Parchment Michigan on August 29th starting at 2:00 PM. Casual attire requested, (camouflage welcome) as we celebrate Andy's joy for hunting and the outdoors.
In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Andy's memory to Pheasants Forever Southwest Michigan Chapter 76 @ 5773 N. Sprinkle Rd. Kalamazoo, MI 49004 or Tunnels to Towers Foundation 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
Please visit Andy's memorial webpage to share condolences and memories with his family at https://www.Langelands.com