Andrew David Bickler

On May 4, 2022, the Lord called a faithful servant home.

Andrew was born to Tom and Linda Bickler on August 22, 1975 in Akron, Ohio.   The family traveled 2000 miles with Andrew’s three brothers and their dog to settle in Helena, Montana in December of that same year. The dog was the best traveler during that trip across country. Andrew’s childhood was full of adventures with his three brothers and he could be described as full of energy and always on-the-go.  At 2 ½ years old he jumped on a bike and took off without training wheels.  This was probably the first sign of how Andrew would live his life, determined and willing to try anything.  He was never afraid to learn new things and was a master at figuring things out.

Andrew met the love of his life and soul mate, Shohneen Marie Hatling, and married on October 7, 1995, the year he graduated high school.   He was pretty excited that he was marrying an older woman and never let her forget about it!  Together they created two beautiful daughters, Brooke Lynn and Sydney Marie.  The love they shared expanded and the family grew by three more beautiful children, Jordan David, Poppy Helen and Emmanual Andrew (Mani).  Expanding again, the family celebrated Brooke’s marriage to Trystan Bryant Allen, and Andrew gained another son.  Love grew again and his first granddaughter, Blayke Lynn was born on August 9, 2021.  He was a loving husband, father and grandpa who would do absolutely anything for his family.   He was always looking for ways to make his family’s life easier.  Andrew was his children’s biggest cheerleader.  He was the first to celebrate their victories, or the shoulder to cry on through hard times. Hugging him was extra special because you could always hear his heart beating. 

For the past 15 years, Andrew served as the Facilities Manager for Helena First Assembly of God.  He never felt that this was just a job, but considered his work a true ministry and his co-workers’ family.  He spent countless hours doing so many things to support the church, but his favorite part of the job was the reason why he did what he did.  He lived his life as an example and often said he was simply a ‘‘road sign’’ pointing people to Jesus.

Andrew’s time on this earth ended too soon but he lived all of his years to the fullest.  He showed a big heart from the time he was a little boy and was quick to comfort and help others in need. He was a kind and compassionate man. Walking in integrity was important to Andrew and it showed in every aspect of his life.  He chose to tattoo integrity on his forearm and license his vehicle as a reminder of walking it out daily.  Serving others was always a part of his nature. He was a magnet for those that needed a helping hand and there wasn’t a week that went by that he wasn’t helping someone.  Not only did he do most of the cooking for his family, he became well-known as the volunteer cook for many church or camp events.  

Everyone that met Andrew felt like they had an instant friend.  His smile was contagious and his booming laugh infectious.  If we can learn anything from this tragic and untimely loss, it is to love with your whole heart as tomorrow is not guaranteed.  We could all learn from this family’s motto; “Always say I love you, and give that kiss and hug goodbye.”  Hold your loved ones close and tell them every day how much they mean to you.

Left to cherish his memories, his wife Shohneen, his children Brooke (Trystan and Blayke), Sydney, Jordan, Poppy and Mani.  Parents Tom and Linda Bickler, Brothers Donald, Jimmy (Chelly and Tawni), and Tim Bickler.  Special family and friends Ryan and Whitney Baker and family, Kenny and Karen Wood and family, Henry “Art” Youngs, Hoss and Terry Morris, Gary and Alynna (Lynn) Hatling, Levi Hatling and Arnold and Carissa Hatling and family, and numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.  Andrew had so many special people in his life it would be impossible to name them all.  He didn’t know a stranger.

His smile, laughter and bear hugs will be forever missed. 

A celebration of Andrew’s life will be held at Helena First Assembly of God, 2210 Dodge Avenue on Thursday, May 12th at 11:00.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Valley Bank of Helena to help support the family during this difficult time.  Checks can be made out to Shohneen Bickler and mailed to Valley Bank; PO Box 5269, Helena, Mt 59604 or through Venmo @Shohneen-Bickler. 

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