Andrew M. Mathiesen, lifelong resident of Carson City, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2009, at the age of 71 years.
Andy was born December 7, 1937, at Mae Noonan's laying-in home in Carson City to Silva (Hendricks) Mathiesen and Elmer C. Mathiesen. Andy was a proud fourth generation Nevadan.
Andy came to this life a seeker of knowledge and understanding. He loved to engage in conversation and debate, always coming away with a new nugget of information. Ever a great teller of tales, you never left a contact with Andy without a new joke or story to share. He was a man of many passions, first and foremost for his family and friends.
He graduated from Carson High School in 1956 where he played on the varsity football team that went on to win Carson High's first state championship. He was also a member of the marching band, playing trumpet. He later attended the University of Nevada, Reno where he continued to play trumpet in the ROTC Band. He served in the US Army where he enjoyed rifle team competition. He competed for and achieved a position on the team to represent Sandia Base in the 1962 NRA National Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio. On returning home he enjoyed hunting, extending his talents to include archery. His hunting trips provided meat to the table or a wonderful story of the "big one" that got away. His love of the outdoors provided many cherished memories with family and friends.
For many years he was a student and teacher in the martial arts, always pushing body and mind. He studied varying disciplines, including Shorinji Kempo Karate, Jujitsu and sword forms.
He worked for the Nevada Highway Department as a transportation analyst. He retired in 1991 after more than 30 years of service to the department.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, brothers Bill and Hardy Mathiesen and sister Sylvia (Mathiesen) Campbell.
He left us with a joyous heart and blessing each extra moment he had with his daughter and son-in-law Sarette and Todde Wolfe; son and daughter-in-law Brandon and Linda Mathiesen and granddaughters Brianna and Jessica Mathiesen, secure in their love. Andy is also survived by his sister Sharon Shank and sister-in-law Catherine Mathiesen. Andy also leaves a large, loving extended family all of Carson City.
Andy began the next part of his great journey with his beloved children at his side.
At his request, no services will be held.
Autumn Funerals & Cremations is in charge of arrangements.