Andrew Besander Jr

Andy was born July 18, 1969, in Ishpeming, son of the late Andrew and Dolores (Mathison) Besander. As a child, Andy loved spending time with his dad – hunting, fishing and tinkering. He also enjoyed his time in Calumet visiting his grandparents.

Andy graduated with the Ishpeming High School Class of 1988, where he served as class president and played football and tennis. Known for his vibrant personality, Andy had a gift for making people laugh and for bringing groups of friends together so everyone felt included, he was the nucleus.

After high school Andy began his career at Robbins Flooring Mill in Ishpeming and rose to the role of Boiler Technician. He later worked in the boiler and kiln department at Potlatch and with the Power Plant at the Marquette Branch Prison. He retired in 2020, leaving behind a reputation for his reliability and hard work.

In retirement Andy indulged his passions: antique hunting, rock collecting, riding his motorcycle, and telling stories, and oh boy, could he tell a story! He loved collecting – his home was full of treasures and his stickers – and he took great joy in giving collectibles to his friends. Andy cherished the time he got to spend with his close friend’s twins, Abby and Andy Faull, who he loved very much. Andy was also a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and never missed Svengoolie on Saturday nights. Andy’s stories and knack for bringing people together will be deeply missed by so many.

Andy is survived by his sister, Debra Besander; aunts, Jean Harmala, Laural Rosemergy, and Jill LaFave; an uncle, Lowell Besander; many cousins; and numerous special friends who meant the world to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew Sr. and Dolores; and his sister, Lynn Marie Besander.

A memorial service will be held at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home on Friday, December 5th, with visitation beginning at 3:00pm, until the time of service at 4:00pm. Pastor Mike Fox will be officiating.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.