Andrew “Andy” Hunter McEachron

Andrew “Andy” Hunter McEachron passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026. He was preceded in death two years to the day by Barbara G. McEachron, his beloved wife and the love of his life.

Andy is survived by his children, Scott and Debbie McEachron, Sandra Hintz, and Catharine McEachron; his grandchildren, Chris, Laura (Chris), Rachel (Tom), Mara (Sola), Max (Monica), Alex (Megan), Caroline (Seth), Nic (Mara), Will (Britta), Timothy, and Meghan; his great-grandchildren, Lilly (Brenden), Caleb, Brody, Kelsi, Brooke, Kennedy, Cameron, Grace, Max, Ellie, Drew, Charlie, and Ryan; and his great-great-granddaughter, Paisley. Andy was immensely proud of his family and cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.

Andy was born on February 18, 1932, in Wausau to Elizabeth and Edgar “Scottie” McEachron. He grew up in Wausau alongside his two brothers, Steve “Mac” and Ed. He attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he was a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity and earned a bachelor of science degree in economics. Through ROTC, Andy prepared for military service and entered the armed forces as an officer.

In Sayner, Andy met Barbara, the love of his life, through his best friend, who was also Barbara’s first cousin. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and a shared love of the outdoors. They were married on January 8, 1955, and just weeks later, on January 23, 1955, began their journey together in the United States Air Force. Determined to remain together throughout his service, they embraced military life as a team. Andy completed flight training and became a fighter pilot, ultimately retiring as a captain.

A true entrepreneur, Andy pursued many successful careers throughout his life. Yet, above all of his accomplishments, his greatest joy was always Barbara and their family. Nothing made him happier than gathering many family and friends at their cottage on Lake Tomahawk in Minocqua throughout the year.

Andy delighted in teaching family and friends how to water ski, drive a boat, build a fire, back up a trailer, and tackle countless other practical skills. Every family member carries a favorite story about Andy’s enthusiastic instruction and guidance. His home was always open — not only to family, but to friends and neighbors as well.

Days spent Up North were filled with swimming to the raft and across the bay, skiing, golfing, berry picking, sailing, and evening boat rides after the day’s work was done. And there was always work to be done — especially after waking to the sound of Andy’s beloved marching music.

Andy lived a full and remarkable life. He embraced the outdoors, treasured time with loved ones, and made the most of every opportunity life offered. His legacy of love, laughter, adventure, and devotion to family will continue to live on in all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Minocqua Country Club.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “Howard Young Foundation,” PO Box 10 Minocqua, WI 54548, howardyoungfoundation.org or “New Hope for Kids, Inc.,” 544 Mayo Ave. Maitland, FL 32751, newhopeforkids.org. Bolger Funeral Home is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com for condolences.