Andrew EASTON Obituary

Passed away peacefully at his home in South America on July 3, 2025, aged 77 years. Andy had a full and interesting life - he was raised in Hastings, graduated from Victoria University in 1969 and received a scholarship for postgraduate study at Colorado State University, where he met his first wife, Carol. They were raising two children in Rotorua before her death in 1987. Andy returned to the USA in 2000 and was later happily married to Patricia Gómez until the time of his passing. Andy is survived by his sister, Catherine Bailey, and his children, John Easton (USA), Elsa Wright (Christchurch), Rosanna (Australia) and William (Canada). A proud grandfather of Anastasia, Liam, Krista, Ava and also his other grandchildren. Andy made a prolific contribution to the orchid world and was still travelling internationally and making new advances in orchid hybridisation in his 'retirement'. Andy had a strong sense of humour, spoke his mind, was generous and maintained friendships across the world throughout his lifetime - both new and old. In accordance with Colombian traditions, Andy's funeral rites were completed over the weekend. He is remembered fondly by those who loved him.