Andrew B. Morris

He lived life on his own thoughtful terms, guided by conviction and a deep love for the natural world. He found his greatest joy in the embrace of the open water, the beauty of the ocean, and the thrill of sailboat racing. Nature was his sanctuary—whether it was the sea, the lakes, or simply the quiet of the outdoors, he felt truly at home when surrounded by it.

He graduated from Iona University before serving in the Navy with distinction as an officer, decorated for valor under combat during the Vietnam War. His faith was central to him—he was Catholic and deeply religious. And yet, in his own way, he often invoked the name of the Lord, Jesus, and all the saints… usually with a few choice words mixed in. It was part of his humor, part of his humanity, and part of what made him unforgettable.

When his parents died, he was just 27 years old, and he inherited the responsibility of raising his own siblings. It was a profound example of the importance of family in his life, and of the devotion that defined him from an early age.

Some of his happiest hours were spent at the yacht club, sitting at the bar with friends, sharing stories, laughter, and endless conversation. He loved people and could talk forever, finding joy in connection as much as in the wind filling a sail.

At home, he was the well meaning ringmaster of our wonderfully chaotic family. He attempted, often unsuccessfully, to discipline his large household, but in truth, that was part of his charm. His efforts brought laughter, his missteps became stories, and his persistence showed the depth of his love.

He believed life should be enjoyed, not mourned. He wanted us to remember him with smiles rather than tears, and to celebrate the joy he found in the world around him. His legacy is not one of strict rules or solemn rituals, but of laughter echoing through the house, of friendships forged at the yacht club. We honor him best not by silence, but by living with the same delight, appreciation for nature, faith, and love of people that he carried with him every day.

The family is deeply grateful to Dr. Louie Coulis, who served as his cardiologist for six years, and to all the wonderful nurses who cared for him at Aurora with compassion and dedication.

He is survived by his wife Susan, two siblings (Elizabeth and David), three children (Susie, Nancy, and A.J.), and eight grandchildren.