Kay Andrich 1919 ~ 2012

Kay Andrich, 93, of Anacortes, passed away in her home on April 14, 2012 following a brief hospital stay. She left this world just as she lived her life, with dignity and grace.

Born Kathryn Ruth Handy on Feb. 22, 1919 to Ralph Handy and Hazel (Valentine) Handy, she was a lifelong resident of Anacortes.

Kay attended Whitney School, Columbia Jr High and graduated from Anacortes High School with the class of 1937. After graduation, Kay worked at JC Penny’s in Anacortes.

In 1942 Kay married Ned Frank Andrich and had 5 children. They joined the United Methodist Church in 1950 where all of their children were baptized.  

Kay was a homemaker and mother while working part time at a travel agency and later for the Washington State Ferries. After her family was raised, Kay took art classes at Skagit Valley College and created beautiful silver jewelry and floral arrangements. Kay was very active in her church and local bridge group. Kay also loved to travel, read, and do exquisite needle work for herself, family members and her church.

Kay’s neighbors will always cherish and appreciate how she constructed a fire pit to encourage everyone to gather, grill and enjoy each other’s company. She delighted in sharing her gorgeous view of Guemes Channel and welcomed others to enjoy it with her.

Kay is survived by three children: Linda Andrich Mrsic (Jozo) of Nampa, Id; Dee and Bret (Jean) and Grandchildren Sean and Kelly Ferren, Nicholas, Lindsay, Spencer and Laura Andrich, and Todd Moen. She was preceded in death by son David in 1955; Daughter Wendy Andrich Moen in 1970 and husband Ned in 1985.

Kay will be deeply missed by her family, neighbors and friends but will always be remembered as a gracious hostess and lovely person. In lieu of flowers, donations to Friends of the Forest or Anacortes Food Bank would be appreciated.

A memorial service is being planned for this summer.