Andrew (Andy) Jack Bilich, of Lake Jackson, TX, was born on November 6, 1931 in New Orleans, LA to Dominick and Sarah (Hill) Bilich. He was proceeded in death by his parents, brother Henry Bilich, and daughter Anne Louise Bilich.
He attended F. T. Nicholls High School in New Orleans, where he played football as center.
Andy attended Southwestern Louisiana Institute in Lafayette (now the University of Louisiana), where he continued his football career and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, IL and his Master of Arts degree in Education from Central Michigan University. He was also trained as a Lay Minister with a certificate from Concordia College in Mequon, WI.
He served in the United Stares Air Force during the Korean War and earned the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Andrew married Bernice Louise Wessel on August 20, 1960, and they were married over 64 years. The family lived in Missouri, California, Washington, and Michigan. Andy and Bernice spent their retirement years in Lake Jackson, TX, most recently at Carriage Inn.
Andy started his career in the banking industry. After going back to school and receiving his B.A., he spent 13 years as a Lutheran School teacher and principal. He also taught elementary school in St. Charles, MI and Meridian, MI and retired after 32 years in education. He also worked at Ware-Smith Funeral Home in Midland, MI.
He was on the Board of Directors of the Mission and Ministry Commission for the Michigan District, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. Andy was an active member in his church and in his later years volunteered at the Texas Port Ministry in Freeport, TX. He also started a card ministry in his retirement, sending monthly cards via the mail or email.
Andy loved crafts, including building model boats and cars which he often shared with friends. He loved telling stories about Louisiana from his youth and was a lifelong New Orleans Saints fan.
He is survived by his wife, Bernice, and children, Sarah Bilich Cheesman (Shawn), Rachel Bilich Cloeter (Michael), Harold Bilich (Mika), Monica Bilich Glauser, and grandchildren Andrew Cloeter, Matthew Cheesman, John Cloeter, Nathan Cloeter, Tanya Duhon (Chuck), Heidi Dressler (Paul), Samantha Bilich, and Harold (Hal) Bilich (Angelica).
A viewing will be held on Friday, October 25 at 10 a.m. followed by worship service at 11 a.m. at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Lake Jackson, TX with Rev. Terrance Adamson officiating. Andy will be buried in Midland, MI. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to The Lutheran Hour or a charity of your choice.