Richard "Andy" Coathup passed away at the age of 80. Very few people pass through life on their way to heaven like Andy.

He was a very good son, born on March 28, 1941, to Alice and Clayton Coathup. Andy was a loving brother to Mary Alice (Jerry) Beckrich; a wonderful uncle to Rick (Leslie) and Scott Beckrich; a fun great-uncle to Mason, Garrett, Emme and Gretchen; and godfather to Mary Kay Thompson and Kelly Lake.

He was a dedicated teacher throughout his entire teaching career at Hermantown grade school. He also enjoyed refereeing basketball and volleyball games for many years. Andy enjoyed people and was well known in the community and volunteered his time on many community projects. His summers were spent golfing with friends and tending bar at the Cloquet Country Club.

Faith was very important to Andy. He attended Queen of Peace Catholic Church every weekend along with serving as an usher and donation collector until he could no longer attend.

Having a conversation with Andy was like talking with a history book. He knew what class you graduated with, how the sports teams did that year, and he could list classmates of yours. We have been blessed to have a family member and friend in our lives like Andy.

Andy, you will be greatly missed by your family and friends. A huge thank-you to all the staff at Sunnyside Health Care during his last few years. We always knew he was in good hands.

Services for Andy are pending. To leave an online condolence for the family, sign the guestbook at http://www.nelsonfuneralcare.net.

Pine Knot News, Aug. 20, 2021