Michael (Mike) Edwin Andrews, 43, peacefully passed away the morning of Sunday, August 30, 2026. Born on December 31,1982 to Norbert and Cherie (nee Sauerbier) Andrews of Homewood, Illinois, Mike was the second born of three and first son; siblings Megan (nee Andrews) Konicek and Matthew Andrews. Quickly identified as an exceptionally gifted student early on in his education, Mike was always working ahead in his studies, science and mathematics being more preferable subjects. Equally talented in athletics, early exposure to multiple sports narrowed down to a dedicated soccer career on club and school teams through his graduation from Oswego High School in 2001.

Always fascinated with weather, Mike started college majoring in meteorology. After two years of study, Mike made the selfless decision to enlist in the Army. After falling shy of a perfect score on the ASVAB by one question, Mike had a host of options available to him upon enlisting, but wanted to go to the Airborne Infantry route, following in his grandfather Norbert P. Andrews's footsteps, who precedes him in death. An injury while training at Fort Drum led to an honorable discharge.

For just shy of 10 years, Mike lived in Tampa, Florida, where he worked as a sous chef. While not perhaps his original career path, friends and family cannot deny Mike's outgoing, hospitable personality-which made it a good fit and unlocked a new passion and true talent in cooking. Connecting friends together and making people feel relaxed and at ease were two strong traits Mike led with each day, without fail. A fierce friend, son, and brother, Mike devoted his life to those he loved and was unyieldingly loyal. Mike eventually returned to Oswego, Illinois in 2019, where he was able to connect with many of his friends in the area. Mike was the fun uncle to his nieces and nephew who he got to see more when back in Illinois.

Mike is preceded in death by his maternal (Howard and Veronica Sauerbier) and paternal (Norbert P. and Betty Jayne Andrews) grandparents and his loving mother, Cherie Lynn (Sauerbier) Andrews. Michael is survived by his father Norbert E. Andrews, sister Megan (Dwayne) Konicek, brother Matthew (Nina) Andrews, nieces Emersyn (12) and Collins (7), nephew Milo (10) Andrews, and by his friends who were also his very close family.

A celebration of life with family will be held at a later date in honor of his final wishes.

Cremation rights are under the personal care of Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL. 60543. For additional information please visit the memorial page at www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com or call 630/554-3888.