James A. ‘Andy’ Vertrees, 57, passed away peacefully at his home in Vincennes, Indiana on August 19, 2024. Andy was born in Lansing, MI, on November 22, 1966, to James and Carol (Bays) Vertrees. He graduated from North Daviess High School in 1985 and studied music at Vincennes University.
Andy was a passionate musician who played saxophone and keyboards as a soloist and with bands including Rebel Storm. A devout believer in God and a lifelong Bible scholar, he loved engaging in theological discussions and discovering new insights from his extensive collection of Bibles and religious works.
Andy’s greatest gifts were his affable, kind nature and quick sense of humor. He loved people and made friends wherever he went. He was compassionate and brought comfort to those in pain by offering a prayer and a listening ear. Andy lived to make people laugh and brought much joy to our lives.
He is survived by his father and stepmother, Jim and Natalie Vertrees of South Riding, VA; sisters, Gina (Lee) Vertrees of Bloomington, Heather (Greg) Mosbarger, of Terre Haute, and Michelle (Keith) Taylor of South Riding, VA; stepbrothers, Jeff (Jade) Nay of Porto, Portugal, and David (Michelle) Nay of Monument, CO; several nieces and nephews.
Andy was preceded in death by his mother, grandparents, Eleanor Bays, Leo and Clara Vertrees, and his beloved cat, Ocie.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Vincennes Animal Shelter.
All arrangements have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon, Indiana. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.mengfuneralhome.com.
