Andrew Wade Boettcher, 16, of Russell, passed away on May 21, 2023 at Wesley Medical Center with his family by his side from injuries sustained in an accident.
Andrew was born Jan. 19, 2007 in Hays, the son of Wade M. Boettcher and Amber M. Oliver. He was living in Russell and attended Russell High School. He has been very active with wrestling and football since third grade. He enjoyed playing online video games, spending time in the weight room and hanging out with his family and friends.
Andrew was the kid that always tried to do the right thing even when no one was looking. He never wanted praise or glory. It was no surprise to his family that he chose to be an organ donor. He will continue to help others with his donations.
Andrew’s surviving family include his mother Amber Oliver of Russell, Kansas; father Wade Boettcher of Russell, Kansas; brothers Austin Boettcher of Hays, and Dax Hoop of Russell; sister JoHanna Boettcher of Russell; aunt Shauna Pfaff (Matt) of Leonardville; maternal grandparents Mike and Lisa Winkleman of Haysville; paternal grandparents Paul and Delores Boettcher of Russell; cousin Cody Pfaff of Leonardville; and nephews Noah and Lincoln.
The funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 1, 2023, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell. A private burial of ashes will take place at a later date. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations made to Andrew Boettcher Memorial Fund. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.