Andrew Warren Lacey

Andrew Lacey, born July 19, 1961 in Pendleton, Oregon, passed away unexpectedly on April 25, 2024. Andrew is survived by his wife, Janel, and two sons, Nick and Ryan Lacey. He attended Pendleton schools as well as BMCC before earning a B.S. in Forest Management from Oregon State University.

As a teen, he participated in Youth Conservation Corps for several years on the Malhuer National Forest. He worked seasonally with the U.S. Forest Service before entering the Peace Corps with his wife, serving in the Philippines from 1988-1989. Upon his return, he gained a permanent job with the Umatilla National Forest where he spent his entire 35-year career; first in Heppner, then in Pendleton at the Forest Headquarters.

During that time, he served in many capacities fighting wildland fires as well as assisting with several hurricane responses, the recovery of the space shuttle Columbia, and two USAID missions. Andrew highly valued serving others outside of work as well. He was a volunteer ambulance driver in Heppner, a monthly blood donor and an active member of the local Knights of Pythias providing fundraising opportunities for various local organizations. Even in death, his eyes and other tissues were donated to help others have a better life.

Andrew had a deep passion for nature throughout his life and spent many days hiking, camping, skiing, and doing other outdoor sports. He loved to travel in the US and abroad. He enjoyed DIY projects on his home, gardening with his wife, and hunting/collecting rocks. His family and his love of the outdoors meant the most to him. He lived life to the fullest. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 17, noon until 2pm, at the Community Park picnic shelter nearest the tennis courts.