WSC mourns the recent passing of beloved Club member Bill Andrews (BA) after fighting a courageous battle with ALS. BA was many things to many people both in and out of the surf club and the water but to all he was a friend, a mentor, and the personification of surf stoke. Here's to stand up barrels forever BA. In case you missed it, see notice below from the family along with a personal note only BA could have crafted.
Earlier today, on the 26th of October 2017, Bill Andrews peacefully passed away. He left this world with full presence of mind, courage, and with the love and support of his family and friends. Earlier this week he asked us to post this brief message on his behalf:
---------- For those of you who followed my ALS journey, you'll know I was on this path for some time. I made a decision early on to not be a victim of the disease and I owned this experience to the end. Whether any of us wanted to accept it or not, I had been saying my goodbyes for the past year and because of all of you, my last year was exceptional.
As I told my family repeatedly, I had not a drop of fear and had been readily anticipating this new adventure. I've never been more at peace than I am now.
My story began more than 60 years ago, as a 12 year old boy in La Jolla. I loved more than anything, being out in the water, learning to ride waves, and falling in love with surfing. And more importantly, this time marked the beginning of my incredible bonds with so many of you.
I also wanted you to know, and to be stoked for me, that I went out with a sense of quietness and purposefulness that I felt reflected the way I liked to surf — paddling out in the dark, first man in the water, and alone with the waves.
I’ve asked there not be a memorial or service as I celebrated with you while I was alive. The celebration you all threw for me at Windansea was a major moment in my life and I was so appreciative of that support.
Thank you all for being my friends and for everything you did for me . It was an honor to know you and to be a part of your lives.
I love you, Keep Paddling.
BA