Andrew Vinmans

McFarland/Stoughton- Andrew S. Vinmans, 42, was wrapped in his angel’s wings and soared ahead to his next chapter on Sunday, November 20th, 2022.
Andy was born to Laurie Larson Downs and Steven P. Vinmans on May 2nd, 1980. Growing up in McFarland, he enjoyed Scouts, sports, music, camping, pets, family, and friends, proudly graduating with the class of 1998.
Andy was an inquisitive kid who continued to teach himself throughout his entire adult life. While school may not have been his forte, he was a self-taught computer ‘geek’, building and repairing computers for many friends and family members. Also a naturally gifted mechanic, he shared his talents with many who needed a hand, and passed his knowledge along whenever the opportunity arose. Andy had a wide variety of interests, including politics and shooting sports. Whether it be learning about new technology, the best video game system, or teaching himself new grilling, smoking, or cooking techniques, internet research, reading, and problem solving was of high priority to Andy. Nothing however, compared to the greatest source of his pride and joy, his family. Big brother to Amber, Austin, and Alli, he tried to make the simple things in life an adventure for his siblings, bridging the large age gap by creating amazing, fun memories. They provided the 'training ground' for building his 'Dad skillz'. Grown and married, his kids meant the world to him, and he didn’t miss an opportunity to share their triumphs. The best of Andy will be carried on in this world through his traits that they share: Quick wit, empathy and compassion for both people and animals, a desire to learn, kindness, patience, (most of the time) curiosity, and a joyful ‘spark’ seasoned with a slightly stubborn side.
Andy is survived by his daughters, Jasmine McCane, (Makenzie Teague) and Ashlee (Josh) Schram, his son, Andrew (AJ) Thomas Vinmans, granddaughter, Rosie Amber Schram, his parents, Laurie and Tom Downs and Steve (Connie) Vinmans, brother, Austin Downs (Samantha Kvalo) sister, Allison Downs,  grandmother, Elsie Larson, bonus brothers, Casey, (Tori) Joe, (Alejandra Torres) and Bill, (Rachel) Downs, lifelong friends Tom (Lindsey) Johnson and Brett Charlesworth, former wife and mother of his kids, Sherry Grant, and a host of much loved aunts, uncles, and cousins, from the Larson and Vinmans clans.
His sister Amber Brook Vinmans, grandpa Lyle Larson, and grandparents Nona and Pat Harrington went ahead to get things ready for Andy. We know there was a joyous reunion of so many, involving no pain nor fear, no disease nor sadness, no anger, anxiety, or grief, and for that, we are grateful. The healing for him is complete!
Please join us for a Celebration of Andy’s life at McFarland American Legion Post 534, 4911 Burma Road, McFarland on Saturday, November 26th, 2022, beginning at 1:00 PM. A time to share memories begins at 1:15, followed by food and fellowship. A dish to pass is appreciated if convenient.
At the risk of missing someone, gratitude to all who loved unconditionally, and supported Andy above and beyond. Grandma Elsie, Papa Tom, Heather, Sven and Dorothy, Tommy, Brett, Austin, Alli, and of course, Jas, Ash, & AJ, thank you all.

Please share your memories of Andy by posting on his Tribute Wall.

Cress Funeral Service

5801 Highway 51, PO Box 105, McFarland

(608) 838-0655