WALTER JOHN ANDREWS, JR.
It is with great sadness, that we announce the passing of Walter John Andrews, Jr. of St. Louis, Missouri. Walt departed this earth on November 3, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his wife and children, at the age of 81. He was born on February 16, 1943 in East St. Louis, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his father Walter John Andrews, Sr., his mother Mildred Edith (Jacobson) Andrews and his sister Patricia Ann (Andrews) House.
Survived by his faithful wife of 61 years, Elna Mae Miner; together they built a strong, loving family who have stayed together, prayed together and even played together. This includes their 3 children: Sherri, Dave & Steve; 7 Grandchildren: Clete, Chris, Kyle, Brooke, Hannah, Tyler, Jake; 4 Great Grandchildren: Hayden, Skylar, Chloe, Jake Jr and Amelia on the way; 1 Great-Great Granddaughter Rilynn; and 1 Adopted niece: Loretta. He also left behind many nieces, a nephew, cousins, as well as other family members, many good friends and business acquaintances.
Walt made a very successful career and was very well known, in the railroad industry. Starting at St. Louis Refrigerator Car Company for 29+ years and then at Metro East Industries, Inc. for 14 years before he retired as Executive Vice President in 2008. At one time, he was very active in his church and used to be one of the Royal Ranger leaders for the boys.
During his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and friends. He loved playing softball, wallyball, golfing, fishing, tennis, traveling, working on special projects, playing cards or even just working in the yard. He cut down trees, built chicken coops, painted fences, and even made a garden house. Whatever, whenever or however he was needed, he was there.
He was also quite the thrill seeker. Whether it was a hot balloon ride, a roller coaster, a zip line or even skydiving – he took part in it. He even took a swing out over the Royal Gorge in Colorado. He always had an amazing smile while doing it and was usually doing these things with his family.
He had a very giving heart and was known for his generosity and good deeds. He enjoyed helping others but particularly his grandchildren anyway that he could. He was loved by all and will be missed by so many especially during the holiday season, which he made so magical.
Visitation at Kutis South County Chapel 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd on Wednesday, November 6, 4-9 p.m. Funeral Service Thursday, November 7, 10:30 a.m. at Peoples Church. Burial Shepherd Hills Cemetery. Memorials to The Lymphoma Foundation of America, appreciated.
condolences to the Andrews Family
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Walt. Walt was an amazing man who cared about his employees at MEI and had a kind heart. Walt will be missed by all. Walt had an infectious smile. Elna, and family, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Thoughts and prayers for the family.
I did not know him for very long buy he made a big impact on me the first time I met him and we talked about things. Such a wonderful person.
Dorina and I will keep Walt and his family in our prayers. He had a way of bringing out the best in people. He was a great friend as well as a great Supervisor. God bless you Walt and rest in peace.
So sorry for your loss Chris you are in our thoughts and prayers Love Mary and Jim Voirol-Kathy ,Kelly,Kari and Kevin and their familys
I am so so sorry Elna, Brooke , Hannah, JT, Dave, Steve, and Sherri for your loss of the great great man Walt! He was a great man larger than life, funny, so very kind and generous and would do anything for anyone. Loved Elna,his kids and grandkids so so much!
I have great memories of him and I know u will find peace in the lifetime of memories u have with him!!!!
Sorry I can’t be there today, I am traveling .
I am there in prayer for what I am sure will be a big celebration of his life 🙏🏻❤️💕
Our sympathy to all of you. Walt truly was a great guy. We both knew him from Metro East Industries. Ralph knew him even before that. He was a great mentor. May special memories bring you comfort in the days ahead
So sorry for your loss. Condolences to all the family.
Thinking of you all today. Love you all. Hugs and prayers.
Thoughts, prayers, condolences, and love are with the Andrews family during this challenging time. Walt was such a special person and truly brought so much happiness and kindness to all that he encountered. I have so many great memories throughout my childhood of spending time with Walt, Elna and the rest of the family. Whether it was swimming endlessly in the pool, having Walt’s famous steaks & shrimp scampi, “No-double dipping” at Lombardo’s, playing Wallyball at the club or having lunch at MEI in the Caboose – Walt was always full of happiness and joy. Walt was a man with strong morals, respect for all and a huge heart. While this time is difficult, we rejoice that we will one day be reunited with Walt for Eternity with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Many Prayers are with the Andrews family.
Rick and I extend our sympathies to Elna and family for your loss. Walt was a special guy and will be missed by all who knew him. Praying that God will bless you with comfort and peace.
RIP Walt, our prayer to the Andrews family. I worked for this really great guy for many years at St Louis Refrigerator Car Company. Alway upbeat, positive and wanting everyone to do their best.
I also got to share off work time with Walt, remember the intense Wallyball games, softball, golf and boating times with him. Memories I still cherish today.