Andrew Michael Spiess

obit template2018-11-29T12:10:12+00:00

Andrew Michael
Spiess

Andy was taken from us too soon on February 2, 2023, in a snowmobile accident. He was 43 years old.  Beloved husband and best friend of Kathleen (nee Dooley). Loving father of Fredrick Whelan Spiess.  Devoted caregiver to Gordy, and preceded in death by Frampton and Elmer.

Cherished son of Ronald Spiess and preceded in death by his treasured mother, Lynn Wahlers Spiess. Dearest brother of Katherine Stempski (Evan), Scott Spiess (Kimberly), Joel Spiess (Daniel Heidenreich), and Kinsey Schneider (Michael).  Brother-in-law and master of mischief to Megan Dooley and Lance Dyzak.  Dear uncle of Kennyn, Beckham, Mak, Leon, and Lync.

Adored son-in-law of David and Martha Dooley.  Further survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Andy graduated from Greenfield High School in 1998 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from UW-Milwaukee. He married the love of his life, Kathleen Dooley, in 2008 at Old St. Mary Parish. Andy and Kathleen lived in Elmhurst, IL where Andy worked for Snap-On Industrial.

Andy never knew a stranger, and was always surrounded by family, friends and colleagues who knew his fervor for life and human connection. He was known for unique and hilarious one-liners to describe every situation. One of his catchphrases was “let her rip, tater chip,” which reflected his full-throttled attitude toward life, family, love and work. Andy’s love of boating was unrivaled, and he could be found most summer weekends in the captain’s chair navigating the Chain of Lakes, Lake Michigan, or any body of water with a boat ramp. As captain, he took care of every element of those beautiful days, making everyone on board feel welcome (as long as you removed your shoes), giving many of us some of the best memories of our lives.

His greatest accomplishment was being a father to Freddie, who he raised with adoration, a deep understanding for creating the joys of childhood, and a kindness that was his trademark. Andy lived with great pride knowing that Freddie will continue the family name and the legacy of his grandparents, David and Margaret Spiess and Elmer and Joyce Wahlers. His death leaves a void for all who knew him – his larger-than life presence will be greatly missed.

Family and friends will gather at Old Saint Mary Parish, 844 N. Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 on Friday, February 10, 2023 from 1:00PM – 3:30PM with a Memorial Mass being celebrated at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the ASPCA https://www.aspca.org

3 Comments

  1. CRYSTAL CAMPBELL (DILLARD) February 5, 2023 at 10:02 am - Reply

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    I attended OLS with Andy for 5th & 6th grade.
    I remember the snow ball fights on the playground. I remember him leading Prayer during Chapel.. Prayers of comfort and peace for the family and friends during this time

  2. Wendy Makal Matheson (Formerly Mampe) February 6, 2023 at 8:57 pm - Reply

    My deepest sympathy to the Spiess Family. I was fortunate to have you in my English classes at GHS.

  3. Richard Coldwell February 9, 2023 at 10:52 am - Reply

    Dear Kathleen and Family,

    Please let me express my deepest condolences for all of you. I consider Andy and good friend and work mate. We became acquainted when we were in training together back in 2007 at Snap-on HQ.
    He was a great guy and you knew he loved his family. I will keep you and the family in my prayers.

    Sincerely, Richard Coldwell

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