Andrew Eric Waits

Andrew Eric Waits was born on September 29th, 1960 in Tulare, CA to parents Gary Waits and Norma Jean Hayes. He graduated from Tulare Union High School, later studied Criminology at Fresno State and graduated from the police academy before accepting a position at the Fresno County Sheriff's Department. He ultimately left the Sheriff's Department due to health reasons. Following multiple career opportunities, including long-haul truck driving and warehouse operations at Electric Motor Shop, he retired by 2012. Andrew, better known as Andy, is survived by his wife Rebecca Waits of 18 years; his step-daughter Stephanie Cervantes, her husband Lennon; his granddaughters Lilyan, Lynore, and Lockheart; his mother Norma Waits; his sisters Rachel Meisner and husband Dennis, Charlotte Archer and husband Stephen; his ten nieces and nephews, Monica Meisner, Shawn and David Archer, Callie Wilson, Brittany Archer, Mallory Mitchell, Emily and Alex Wilson, Rhett Meisner and Christopher Archer. Andy was a big man with a gentle heart. He married his childhood friend, Rebecca Montero, on October 16th, 1999; the two had met in Kindergarten at Pixley Elementary School. An active family man, he attended many if not all annual reunions of both the Waits and Mendoza families. He enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews camping in the mountains, game nights with his wife's family, and spending time at his mama's house with she and her twin sister Emma, watching old time cowboy movies and playing games online. Throughout his life, Andy had varied interests in social activities. His early life was consumed by his involvement in the Boy Scouts of America, an interest he shared with his father. He became involved in music as well at this time, and his love for playing the trumpet remained with him throughout his life. He shared his love of music with his nieces and nephews, most of whom played instruments throughout their school years. Known for his flawless performance of Taps, Andy was often requested to play at funerals and events requiring Military honors throughout the Central Valley. While in high school, Andy was also selected to participate in Boys State, a prestigious recognition from the American Legion Organization. In his later years, Andy's interest in family history led him to become involved in the local Civil War Reenactment Society, a pastime that meant a great deal to him. Rising to the rank of First Sergeant, he again encouraged his entire family to participate as much as possible. From the theme of his wedding to Rebecca, the many reenactments events, the balls and memorials, his passion for the society was evident in all aspects of his life, and deeply included his family. In his final years, Andy joined the Visalia Mighty Oaks Chorus group participating in numerous local Barbershop themed performances throughout the year. His family and friends will always remember Andy as a man of deep, quiet faith, who led a humble life. A giving man of many talents, he lived his life on his terms, committed and loyal to those whose paths he crossed. He will be missed. Visitation will be held at 4 pm till 7 pm on February 6, 2018 at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel. A Graveside service will be held at 12 noon on February 7, 2018 at Grabtree Cemetery, 33164 Globe Dr., Springville CA 93265. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 pm on Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at Tulare United Methodist Church.

Andrew Eric Waits

September 29, 1960 - January 23, 2018