Andrew Hettinga

Andrew P. Hettinga, 91, Wausau, died Sunday, March 4th 2012, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Andy was born August 23rd 1920, the son of the late Peter and Annie (TePaske) Hettinga, on the family farm in the town of Easton. In 1945, Andy was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a diesel mechanic in the Philippines during World War II; earning the good conduct and victory medals. After his honorable discharge, he returned home and on September 30th 1950, was united in marriage to LaVerne A. Yolitz, at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, Wausau. He worked as a technician at Midwest Breeders, which later became 21st Century Genetics, for 38 years. After retirement, he began his second career, working at McDonald's for 22 years.

Always active and on the go, Andy enjoyed keeping busy and being social. He took great pride in caring for his home, yard, and gladiolas. His hobbies included fishing and reading western novels. In his spare time, Andy was Santa Claus to all the children at the Wausau Center, a main gate attendant at the Marathon County Fair, and an avid walker at the Wausau Center. His smile and friendly "hello" will be missed by all that knew him. Andy also sang in the St. Stephen's Choir and Men's Chorus for over 50 years.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 61 years, LaVerne; two daughters, Melody (Tom) Spencer, Jackson, WI, and Nelda (Arvo Britten) Hettinga, Wausau; and sister, Evelyn "Evie" (Gerald) DeBore, LaMars, IA.

Along with his parents, he was predeceased by four brothers, Ray, Dick, Hank, and Kenneth; and three sisters, Jane, Nell, and Agnes.

A celebration of Andy's life will be held at noon, Thursday, March 8th, at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, Wausau. Full military honors will be provided by the American Legion Montgomery Plant Post No. 10, Wausau. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Wausau. Family will receive guests on Thursday, at church, beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in Andy's name.

A sincere 'thank you' to everyone in the Palliative Care and Hospice Units, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital, and especially Dr. Thomas Rengel and his staff, for the outstanding care and concern given to Andy and his family.