Andre R. Vanmeerhaeghe

Andre R. VanMeerhaeghe was born on December 17, 1939, and passed away on June 30, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather, a friend, a service man, a provider, a fighter, a survivor, a fisherman, a hunter, and a personal hero to his family.

Andre was born and raised in Belgium before immigrating to the United States in 1956. He served in the US Army from 1958 – 1961. Andre married the love of his life, Frances, on July 8, 1961, and they shared many adventures for 62 wonderful years. He started his career at Kenneth Smith Golf Company. He became a volunteer Officer at the Lenexa Police Department and worked for the Kansas Gas Service for 17 years. Andre was a member of the Knights of Columbus through Good Shepherd Catholic Church and was a proud recipient of the lifetime achievement award in 2012.

In October of 1985, Andy and Fran opened a franchise of The Pizza Shoppe on 87th in Overland Park. Customers knew Andy as the “Pizza Man” for 20 years. After retiring, they became baristas at Healthridge Fitness in Olathe where Andy became known as the “Muffin Man”, baking for 4 years.

Andy was an avid fisherman, hunter, shooter, and enjoyed doing anything outdoors. Smoking cigars was a treasured pastime. He had a gift for gab and could tell stories for hours. His legacy will continue through the lives of his children and grandchildren.

Andre is survived by his wife, Frances, and his 5 children, Andre L. (Dana) VanMeerhaeghe, Philip (Betty Jo) VanMeerhaeghe, Yvonne (Todd) Wallen, Monique VanMeerhaeghe, and Nicole (Erik) Bode. He was also blessed with 11 grandchildren and 2.5 great grandchildren. Andre was preceded in death by his parents, Andre G. and Mary Louise VanMeerhaeghe.

A visitation will be held at Amos Funeral Home in Shawnee on Thursday 7/6 from 5:00-7:00pm with a Rosary at 4:30pm. Mass will be held on Friday at Good Shepherd Catholic Church at 10:30 am with lunch immediately following. A graveside ceremony with military honors will take place starting at 1:30 pm at Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens.

As an alternative to flowers, consider donating to the American Cancer Society, Good Shepherd on behalf of the Knights of Columbus, or to a charitable organization of your choice in Andre’s name.