Obituary of Andrew Tyra

Andrew Tyra, Jr. Command Sergeant Major, Retired, California National Guard, passed away on June 10, 2012 with his loving family by his side. He was 83. Andrew was born in Modesto, California on April 8, 1929 to Andrew Tyra, Sr and Ollie (Olds) Tyra. He was a graduate of Turlock High School, Class of 1947. A resident of Santa Cruz for the past 64 years, he worked for Coast Counties Electric and P.G.& E retiring after 37 years. In 1948 he enlisted in the California National Guard, retiring as Command Sergeant Major with 30 years of service. He was also a Command Sergeant Major of the 149th Armor Honorary Regiment, where he received the St. George Medal. Andrew was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church since 1957. He was also a member of the P.G.&E. Retired Employees Association, Santa Cruz Toy Makers and a past president of the Capitola/Soquel Little League. He was an avid SF Giants fan and enjoyed woodworking and model building. He was a person of tremendous curiosity and enjoyed pursuing many interests which he shared with his whole family. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Tyra; two sons, David Tyra and Daniel Tyra; two daughters, Andrea Tyra and LeighAnne Wehrman; sister, Priscilla Tyra; he is also survived by nine grandchildren, Josh, Sarah, David, Brandon, LeighAnne Aulani, Elijah, Matthew, Kyle and Gianna and four great grandchildren, Tristan, Heaven, Jordan an d Jaelynn. Services will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church 801 High St., Santa Cruz, CA. on Thursday June 14, 2012 at 10:00 am. A viewing will be held at church on Thursday beginning at 9:00 am. Arrangements are under the direction of Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel. Please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com light a candle or express your condolences to Andrew's family. In lieu of flowers contributions are preferred to Messiah Lutheran Church Furnace Funds, 801 High St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060 or to Heartland Hospice, 2511 Garden Rd., Monterey, CA