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Andrew James Werhane, 42, of Poplar Grove, Illinois, passed away on April 26, 2025. Born on October 26, 1982, and raised in Lena, the son of Mary and James Werhane. Andy was a deeply devoted husband, father, teacher, lifelong seeker of knowledge, and loyal fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears. Known for his humility, kindness, great taste in music, and endless passion for the game of golf he will be deeply missed.

Andy graduated from Lena-Winslow high school in 2001. He was an athlete throughout high school - playing on both the football field and baseball diamond. He also worked in the family's trucking business, Werhane Enterprises, washing and maintaining trucks. The work ethic and commitment to constant improvement he developed during these years extended into all of his future pursuits.

Andy continued his education at Eastern Illinois University, graduating with a BA in English and a High School teaching certificate in 2007. He earned an MA in Educational Technology from Concordia University in 2016, and another MA in Educational Leadership from Aurora University in 2023. A longtime and passionate educator, Andy made a lasting impact on the community of Belvidere during his time at Belvidere High School and later as Assistant Principal of Washington Academy.

He was a teacher, mentor, coach, and leader who simultaneously raised the bar and provided encouragement for both students and colleagues. A committed coach of baseball, bowling, and especially golf, he inspired countless students with his guidance and compassion.

In 2009, Andy met the love of his life. They married on November 12, 2011, and together they welcomed two cherished children: Olivia Katherine on November 2, 2012, and James Arthur on September 21, 2019. He was an adoring husband and father whose love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life.

Andy is survived by his cherished wife, Sarah Werhane; their children, Olivia Katherine Werhane and James Arthur Werhane; his parents, Mary and James Werhane; mother and father-in-law, Timothy and Suzanne Heagney; siblings, Nicholas James (Katherine) Werhane, Joseph James (Genevieve) Werhane, Ryan James (Heidi) Werhane; brothers-in-law, Timothy (Samantha) Heagney Jr., and Thomas Heagney; nieces and nephews, Lillian, Ellaina, Noah, Brinley, Allie, Charlotte, and Layton Werhane; grandparents, Fred and Betty Werhane, Ronald and Patricia Mahon, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends students and colleagues whom he loved dearly.

He is predeceased by little Baby A, and his nephew, Patrick Michael Heagney.

Andy's visitation will be between the hours of 3-6pm on Saturday May 10th at Belvidere High School located at 1500 East Ave, Belvidere, IL 61008 with funeral service to follow at 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, gifts for his children will be gratefully accepted via multiple options.

1)  https://venmo.com/u/Andy-Werhane-Family (Last four digits of the associated phone number: 6549)

2) https://www.ugift529.com/ (Code: S0H-Q96)

3) Cards and letters may be mailed to Sarah Werhane. PO Box 5, Caledonia IL 61011

4) To share the priceless gift of your memories, favorite moments, favorite photos, or lessons learned from Andy please send your message to DearMrWerhane@gmail.com