Andrew Frank Wise

Andrew Frank Wise, always known as "Andy," passed away suddenly, though peacefully, on March 30, 2024, in the arms of his wife and children. Always full of life and young at heart, Andy was 80 years old.

He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1967, where he met his wife, Janice. Andy earned a degree in business and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army at that time. He served with honor and was a decorated Vietnam War veteran and helicopter pilot, receiving, among other honors, two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Following his military service, Andy became a stockbroker but eventually returned to flying He was a commercial helicopter pilot, doing seismic work around the world, flying for Flight for Life, and working fire suppression contracts in California. He loved flying and amazingly survived four serious crashes; he often admitted his guardian angels worked overtime. Andy learned to love the sport of skiing while living in Germany. When his son competed in freestyle skiing, Andy began a 35 year commitment to the sport, not only championing the next generation but also working alongside the top athletes in the world. He traveled the US and the world serving as a Technical Delegate for over 50 events, as well as serving on countless boards and committees.

Ever a lover of antiques, along with a great deal, Andy collected everything from yo-yos and marbles, to German etchings and clocks, to glass floats from Japan. He could fix almost anything, was always ready to help, and often take over, any project, and would obsessively search for any specific item at estate sales for family and friends. While Andy had many interests, his greatest and most enduring love was for his family. He and Janice, the love of his life, were married in 1970, and began a life filled with love, laughter and adventure, living in both Germany and Japan, skiing, collecting, and traveling to numerous countries. They moved to Denver in 1974 where they raised two amazing children, Andy and Wendy.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Kate Wise, and his beloved grandson, Jake Andrew Wise, whose hand he now holds in Heaven. Andy is survived by Janice, his wife of 53 years, his son, Andy Wise and wife, Chrissy, and his daughter, Wendy, and husband, Mike Fujka. Andy's greatest joy since their births has been his adored granddaughter, June Kathryn Wise, who named him "Gumpa," and his treasured grandson and "mini-me," Charles (Charlie) Andrew Fujka. He is also survived by three sisters, Judy Wink, Susan Chriss and Terry Kesecker, as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

Andy will forever be remembered for his warm smile, eyes sparkling with humor, a caring and forgiving heart, his enveloping bear hugs and steadfast love. Although our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing he is in heaven watching over us and reminding us to, "figure it out!"

A Memorial Service to celebrate Andy's life and faith will take place at Wellshire Presbyterian Church in Denver, where he has been a member for over 40 years, on April 12 at 1:00 PM. A livestream for the service can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@WellshirePresbyterianChurch/streams, and will begin streaming 15 minutes prior to the start of the service. 

Burial will be at Ft. Logan National Cemetery in early summer. In place of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to Denver Hospice, please specify Footprints Children's Services, in memory of Andy's cherished grandson, Jake Wise.