It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that family, friends, and the wider fishing community share the passing of Andrew Wheeler of Fairhaven, Massachusetts, a dedicated commercial fisherman, beloved son, brother, and friend. Andrew passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, humility, and the deep compassion he showed to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Originally from Villa Hills, Kentucky, Andrew built a life rooted in perseverance, courage, and an unwavering connection to the sea.
Andrew devoted his career to commercial fishing, a demanding and often unforgiving profession that requires both physical strength and emotional resilience. As an Owner/Operator in the industry, he approached his work with a rare combination of skill, leadership, and respect for the ocean. Fellow fishermen admired his discipline, his strong work ethic, and the way he treated every crew member like family. Whether navigating rough waters or helping a new deckhand find their footing, Andrew led with patience, heart, and integrity. His dedication to the craft was more than a job—it was a calling that shaped his identity and inspired those who worked alongside him.
Away from the water, Andrew was known for his kindness, quiet confidence, and ability to make people feel welcome. With a warm smile and a steady presence, he built meaningful connections everywhere he went. Friends describe him as loyal and dependable, someone who showed up without hesitation and never expected anything in return. He carried the values of his Kentucky upbringing throughout his life—respect, hard work, generosity—and these qualities made him deeply cherished by all who knew him.
Andrew also had a deep love for nature and the outdoors. Whether exploring the coastline, enjoying a peaceful moment by the harbor, or taking in the calm of early morning on the water, he appreciated the beauty around him in a way that grounded and sustained him. His experiences growing up in Kentucky and later building his life in Massachusetts shaped a unique perspective that blended Southern warmth with coastal resilience.
Though his passing has left an unimaginable void, Andrew’s memory will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched. His family and friends will forever remember his compassion, his unwavering spirit, and the joy he brought into every gathering. In the fishing community, his legacy lives on in the lessons he shared, the standards he set, and the friendships he forged with those who worked by his side.
As loved ones grieve this heartbreaking loss, they find comfort in remembering Andrew as the remarkable man he was—a hardworking fisherman, a trusted friend, and a beloved member of both his Kentucky roots and his Massachusetts coastal community. His life, though gone too soon, will be celebrated and cherished always.
