Anyone who has made the Anacortes 4th of July parade a tradition will remember Andy Stevens, self-described patriot and supporter of the U.S. military. Andy, a Navy veteran who served in Vietnam, came to this area the first time by way of NAS Whidbey. He was an accomplished musician, with band credits including The Pioneers (see photo, album cover) and a performance at The Grand Ol’ Opry. His impressive resume also included a booking and recording studio in Nashville as well as work at the Shell Oil Refinery, and his own Anacortes business as a video producer. If he wasn’t appearing in a parade, Andy could be found Sundays, year-round, at the intersection of Commercial Avenue and 12th Street. He waved the American flag, and often political signs. His favorite role was that of grandfather, with nine grandchildren. Andomar (Andy) F. Harju Stevens died at his home at age 80 on November 21, 2022. A celebration of life will be held in the Spring.