The world got a little quieter Saturday, June 26th when Andrew Ervin Gehrand loving son, brother, uncle, and friend passed away at the age of 35. Andy spent two months in ICU, but the real cause of his illness was never determined.

He was born July 14, 1985, graduated Union Grove High School in 2004, and graduated Gateway College with many welding certificates. While Andy was a jack of all trades his true passions were running the family farm with his dad and brothers; collecting toy tractors, being a talented welder/fabricator; creating memories with family and friends; and taking care of the animals (especially the baby pigs—those were his favorite!!).

To know Andy was to love Andy. His bigger than life personality and infectious laugh was hard to miss. He had a heart of gold that showed in the way he cared for people and his animals.

When he walked into the gates of heaven, we know he was not only greeted by his beloved dog Sadie, but was also welcomed with open arms by his grandparents; Leslie and Sarah (Brandes) Gehrand and Ervin and Ethel (Baum) Wilks. Andy always liked to talk, so we know they have a lot to catch up on.

Those of us who will stay here and not be part of that heavenly conversation yet are his loving parents, Robert and Ellen (Wilks) Gehrand; his brothers James (Susan) Gehrand; Thomas (Jessica) Gehrand; Michael (Amy) Gehrand; sister Christy (Marco) Celeste; nieces and nephews Tierney, Tyler, Benjamin, Harley, William, Daisy, and Will; many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, loyal friends and other family including his four footed friends, Brandy and Coco.

There will be a private service to lay Andy to rest. Family and friends are invited to a casual open house on Sunday, July 11th from 1-5pm at County Line Hall (103 200th Ave, Union Grove, WI) to remember and honor Andy's life.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Andy Gehrand Memorial Scholarship or Union Grove United Methodist Church, where Andy was baptized, confirmed, and a lifelong member.

Although he's left a great void for all of his loved ones left behind, we know we will be all reunited again someday and Andy will be the one to greet us with his big smile. Sadness is temporary, but love is forever- till we meet again Andy…