Merle Newhausen

Merle “Andy” Andrew Newhausen Andy Newhausen, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, son, brother, and uncle passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, September 16, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was 65 years old and fought a tough battle with cancer over the last 5 years. He stayed strong and always kept a positive attitude throughout his journey, staying true to his faith. Andy was born on August 8, 1958, in Rockford, IL., to Merle Francis Newhausen and Jean Marie (Drake) Creech at Rockford Memorial Hospital. He was the youngest of three children. Andy graduated from Byron High School in 1976. He became a semi-truck driver shortly after where he drove for over 35 years. Andy was a proud member of Teamsters Local 325 and he retired on December 24, 2020. Over his 35 years of truck driving, he made many friends that he stayed close and connected with until the very end. In 2004 Andy married Beverly Henrey on July 4 th in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was said Andy was quite a wild child until he met Bev. She brought out the best of him as he did for her as well. Andy was a collector of guns and antique razors, he loved fishing, and relaxing with his dog. His wife was his best friend. Andy had many stepchildren, but he had one amazing daughter that he loved with all his heart, they talked every day, generally multiple times a day. He was so proud of her; Breanna was his greatest accomplishment in life without a doubt. Andy will always be remembered for his friendly personality, corny Dad jokes, and his colorful Hawaiian shirts.
Those he left behind: Wife, Beverly (Floyd) Henrey-Newhausen, daughter Breanna (Michael) Bird, stepchildren Tracy (Jon) Fraser, Chantel Talaba-Marrero, and Trevor Smith. His Mother, Jean (Bill) Creech, sister Paula Gifford, brother Michael (Chantel) Newhausen. Grandchildren Sophia Bird, Kaitlynn Bird, Andie Bird, Myles Bird, Amelia Bird, Tucker Fraser, Jaeden Fraser, Kayla Henrey and Jerry Henrey. Predeceased by: father, Merle Newhausen, nephew, Brett Gifford, stepson, Jeremy (Ashley) Henrey A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 12:00 (noon) at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 3 rd Avenue Rockford, IL. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111.