Celebrating the Life of Andrew "Andy" J. Vandecaveye

July 25, 1959 – October 25, 2026

Andrew "Andy" J. Vandecaveye, 67, of Sarasota, FL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Angela Hospice Care Center in Livonia, MI.

Born in Monroe, MI, to Andrew and Teresa (Bettinger) Vandecaveye, Andy grew up attending St. Mary Grade School and graduated from Monroe Catholic Central High School in 1977. Driven by a passion for problem-solving and leadership, he earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Michigan, followed by an MBA from the University of Toledo in 1986. That same year, on November 28, Andy married the love of his life, Lisa A. Diehl.

Andy built a distinguished career in automotive engineering, dedicating many successful years to Ford Motor Company and Navistar before retiring in June 2024. Throughout his professional journey, he genuinely enjoyed collaborating with his colleagues and building lasting workplace relationships.

Outside of his career, Andy loved to hit the golf course and cheer on his favorite college teams—most notably the Michigan Wolverines and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Andy lived by the belief that there were no strangers, only friends he had not yet met. Above all else, he cherished time spent with those he loved, especially his granddaughter Chloe, his nephew Connor, and his wide circle of friends.

Family & Loved Ones

Andy is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Lisa; his daughter Anna Vandecaveye and her husband Rob Mengel; his cherished granddaughter, Chloe Mengel; and his siblings, Ellen Graves of Monroe, Tom (Debbie) Vandecaveye of Ida, MI, and John Vandecaveye of Monroe. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Teresa, and an angel grandchild lost to miscarriage.

Services & Remembrance

A memorial Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Bacarella Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers or donations, Andy’s lasting wish was for everyone to simply spend more time creating memories with their family, friends, and loved ones.

Online condolences may be shared at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com.