Oct. 2, 1947 – Mar. 30, 2013

R. Andrew ”Andy” Erhardt lost his courageous battle with cancer on March 30, 2013. He was 65 years old.

Andy was born October 2, 1947, in Glendale, Arizona. After graduating from Seligman High School he enlisted in the United States Navy. Andy served his country honorably, fighting the war in Vietnam. After his tour of duty in Vietnam, Andy attended school at the University of Arizona, where he played football and majored in History.

On March 26, 1977, Andy Erhardt married Cathie Bradley of Walnut Creek, CA. They moved to Bend, OR in 1978, where they raised their seven children. Andy worked for Wagners and Albertsons until he retired in 2009. He continued to run his small business, which he started with his wife in 2001.

Andy was known for his gruffness, sense of humor, strong work ethic and tremendous heart. He was a selfless man, putting others first. Andy always provided for his family even when he had to go without. While working in the grocery business, Andy would often purchase groceries for those who could not afford them. He was always there to help out.

When not at work Andy enjoyed the outdoors. He always made time to hunt and fish with family and friends. Andy believed a bad day of fishing was always better than a good day at work. Andy looked forward to every football season. He watched as many games as he could. From high school football to professional football, if it was televised, Andy would watch it. He truly appreciated the game for what it was. He enjoyed listening to Johnny Cash, Charlie Daniels, Willie Nelson, and Merle Haggard. Andy always appreciated a good western movie, especially with John Wayne or Clint Eastwood.

Andy is survived by his wife of 36 years, Cathie; and seven children, Sean (Patty) Erhardt of Napavine, WA, Don (Andrea) Green of Bend, OR, Carl (Dee) Erhardt of Beaverton, OR, Shannon Haas of Redmond, OR, Chris (Amanda) Erhardt of Redmond, OR, Heidi (William) Miller of Bend, OR, and Stacie Erhardt of Bend, OR. Other survivors include 10 grandchildren and three siblings, Charles Erhardt of Arizona, Jean Wisneski of Texas, and Dorthy Hougaard of Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Andy’s name to Hospice of Redmond, 732 SW 23rd St. Redmond, OR 97756. A private ceremony will be held to celebrate the life of Andy Erhardt.