ESCONDIDO, Calif. — John Edward Andres, age 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2012, at his home in Escondido, Calif.
He was born March 8, 1923, in Ashtabula, Ohio, the son of Adam and Veronica Andres. After high school, he joined the Army, serving in Okinawa during WWII and receiving the Bronze Medal. In 1951, he married Isabel Mann, and they raised four children.
For 23 years, he worked as a linesman for the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Co. A visit to California prompted a move to Escondido in 1968, where he and Isabel owned and operated George & Ann’s Drive-In until 1979. They built Andres Center on the property in 1980, managing it and other properties until retiring at age 88.
Johnny loved God and was dedicated to his family and his country. He attended St. Mary’s Church for 40 years and later, the First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed helping others. After losing most of his eyesight, he continued training at the Braille Institute. He never gave up and was an inspiration to many.
Johnny was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Isabel in 2010; and sisters, Mary and Helen.
He is survived by daughters, Susan (Ric) Tolhurst and Mary Stewart-Giordano, both of Escondido; sons, Paul (Ariane) Andres of Washington, D.C. and David (Wendy) Andres of Tracy, Calif.; grandchildren, Stephen (Julie) Tolhurst, Rebecca (Billy) Styers, Adam Stewart, Julia Andres and Katie and Tucker Andres; and great-grandchildren, Lauren, Andrew and one to be; brother, Frank Andres; and sisters, Stella Canon and Antoinette Kalister.
A Memorial Service celebrating Johnny’s life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 24th, at 11 a.m., at the First United Methodist Church, 341 S. Kalmia St., Escondido, Calif., followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Braille Institute, 4555 Executive Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, or to the First United Methodist Church.
Obituary and condolences at starbeacon.com.
