Birth date: Jan 25, 1943 Death date: Dec 30, 2020
Andrew Wierengo III, age 77, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020. He was born in Muskegon to Andrew and Cornelia (Funkhouser) Wierengo Jr. He graduated from Muskegon High School, University of Michigan and received a law degr Read Obituary
I am so saddened to hear of Judge Wierengo’s passing. He was an inspiration to me and will be deeply missed in Muskegon.
A Beautiful Soul
A sibling, a veteran, a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a friend, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul.
Andrew was rarely home when I was young - college, law school, and war kept him busy. My memories of his homecomings were celebrations with great joy for all of us. Parties, music, waterskiing, boating, and lots of laughter. Later, life gave me a chance to connect with him as an adult and I found that he had that rare quality of someone who really listens and is 100% present in a conversation. His humor, faith, and joyfulness were inspirations to me when we talked. A funny, handsome, smart, gentle and caring brother to all his siblings, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul
His time in the service was something I never knew much about. But, from some stories he shared more recently, I learned he was stationed about as close to the front line as you can get and that he and a few of his fellow soldiers got into mischief occasionally, showing he managed to have fun and laugh even in tough situations. A strong, fun loving, brave, soldier, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul
Andrew was husband to two remarkable women. My brother Frank and I were flower girl and ring bearer at his wedding to Mary Ann. I thought I was in a fairy tale - Prince Andrew and Princess Mary Ann. But as we all know, people change and life changes. Later in life, when Andrew married Vicky, I was blessed with another amazing sister-in-law. Now, I want you to know that our family was probably not the easiest to enter, but through time it became clear to all of us that Vicky and Andrew were meant for each other. A devoted, loving, humble husband, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul.
His children, Steffanie and Tighe were his pride and joy. He was an active and involved dad, playing in the pool or lake, going to their sporting events, or just talking. He sometimes expressed himself to them through writing, one particular poem he wrote when Steff was leaving for college. It was about staying connected through the moon and beautifully showed the depth of his love for them. Andrew also loved his step children, Hilary and Brett, making sure he was always there for them with encouragement, a joke, or a hug. A kind, gentle, thoughtful, supportive father, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul.
Grandchildren became a huge blessing in his life – Andi Elizabeth, Cooper, Drew, Jake, & Mayson. He stayed involved in their lives, often traveling to watch their sporting events and other activities. Last year even included a memorable trip to Detroit to watch Cooper and the Mona Shores team win the state football championship. His pride at their accomplishments and involvement in their lives leave them with many wonderful memories. An involved, loving, fun grandpa, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul.
From law school, to District Court judge to everyday life, Andrew had a huge heart for others and was a friend to many. He helped those in need, listened more than talked and always had time for anyone needing some wisdom. An encouraging word, some tough love, a joke, a hug, or a prayer were some of the many ways he expressed support to his friends. A wise, funny, generous, affectionate friend, my brother Andrew had a beautiful soul
As I think of Andrew now, I am most grateful for his incredibly strong faith. To his family, it is a true gift he gave us, as he peacefully and joyfully made his way to heaven. We will mourn the loss of what he was to us - the great brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. But we can also celebrate wonderful memories, and cherish the unwavering peace brought by the knowledge that God has my brother Andrew’s beautiful soul.
Tighe and my children, Andi and Cooper Wierengo were fortunate to have such a compassionate and devoted Grandfather. They were shown what a genuine person should look like thru the years of guidance, support and love shared by Andrew. His calming presence made him the ideal role model for a world so full of challenges. Condolences to his entire family.
Vicky I am so sorry for your loss. Andy was such a thoughtful and kind man. His imprint will be on our community permanently. Just and compassionate with everyone he interacted with. These recent years, what a pleasure to serve with Andy on the Muskegon Rescue Mission.
Our friendship began in the late 70’s. Andy as a young lawyer represented me as a small business person, a dispute with the then General Telephone. We enjoyed a victory and that enthusiasm continued over the next 45 years. Andy Wierengo a wonderful man of faith will surely be missed, yet his inspiration will continue.
To Andy's friends and family: As a Muskegon attorney I've known Andy for 40 years not only when he was in private practice but when he was district court judge. I've played several rounds of golf with Andy. Golf is a game which show the true character of a man's soul. "Drew" was I called him exemplified great empathy and understanding of a person's foibles and call to success. I will miss you.
So sorry to hear of the loss of this fine man. Andy has been a dedicated member of the Agewell Services Senior Transportation team since 2018. His optimistic attitude and calm demeanor were always appreciated by those he served and those he served with. He will be greatly missed.
Vicky, I am very sorry to hear of Andy’s passing. I certainly wish you all the best. You were both happy together and that is such a blessing. You will be included in prayers. We love you, David & Dawn Hagerty
Vicky and family,
I enjoyed practicing in Andy’s courtroom and his campaign advice was the best advice I received. I am saddened by your loss and send deepest condolences.
Prayers for peace,
Paula Baker Mathes
