Honouring Andrew’s Legacy: A Story of Selflessness and Hope
At the Move for Life Foundation, we are privileged to share stories that inspire, heal, and remind us of the profound impact one person can have. Today, we honour Andrew Puetz—a young man whose vibrant spirit and selfless decision to become an organ donor transformed tragedy into a legacy of life. Continue reading to learn about Andrew’s infectious laughter, unwavering loyalty, and the strength that continues to touch lives far beyond his own.
A Light That Never Fades
Andrew Puetz was larger than life. “He lit up every room,” his family recalls, describing a 22-year-old with a smile so genuine it could brighten the darkest days. Known for his quick wit and playful catchphrases, Andrew had a knack for making everyone laugh—whether he was cracking jokes, breaking into spontaneous dance moves, or sporting a bold outfit that reflected his unique style. His passions were as vibrant as he was: cheering for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Calgary Flames, working alongside his dad on the family farm in Marysburg, and bringing people together with his boundless energy.
“Andrew was deeply loyal,” his family shares. “His friends and family were his priority, and you could always count on him to make sure everyone was having a good time.” His hands-on approach to life shone through in his work at the Lake Lenore CO-OP Ag, where he spent summers as a student, and in the countless moments of joy he created for those around him.
One cherished memory stands out: the Christmas before his accident, when Andrew jokingly insisted his cousin Megan, expecting her first child at the time, name her son after him. “He said his name was the best,” his family laughs. Months later, Megan and her partner chose “Andrew” as their son’s middle name—a tribute to Andrew whose spirit would live on. When Andrew’s niece was born the following year, she was named Andi, a heartfelt nod to her one-of-a-kind uncle. These moments capture Andrew’s essence: a man who brought love, laughter, and connection to everyone he met.
A Decision Born of Strength
Andrew’s name means “strong,” and nowhere was that strength more evident than in his decision to register as an organ & tissue donor. Though his family isn’t certain what sparked his choice, they believe it may have been influenced by their community’s experiences—like the loss of a family friend’s baby awaiting a heart transplant or the Humboldt Broncos tragedy, where Logan Boulet’s organ donation inspired a movement. “Andrew had a deep sense of generosity,” his family reflects. “It’s possible those stories stayed with him.”
On February 17, a tragic accident in Calgary changed everything. Andrew’s life was cut short, leaving his family in unimaginable grief. Yet in that moment of heartbreak, they faced a decision that would define his legacy. “When we learned of Andrew’s wish to donate his organs, we didn’t hesitate,” they shared. “It was the hardest thing we’d ever done, but we knew it’s what he wanted.”
The decision was gut-wrenching. “It felt like a nightmare we couldn’t wake up from,” they admit. But honouring Andrew’s choice gave them a flicker of light in the darkness. On what would have been his 23rd birthday, his organs were donated—his eyes restored vision, his lungs, heart, liver, and kidneys saved lives, and his skin offered healing to burn victims. “His final act wasn’t just a gift,” his family says. “It was a miracle for others.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Knowing Andrew’s legacy through donation saved multiple lives, brings his family a complex mix of comfort and awe. “It’s hard to wrap our heads around,” they say. “But knowing his gift gave others the chance to live, to see, to breathe—it brings some peace.” They hope the recipients feel Andrew’s love and live their lives to the fullest, perhaps even waking up with a bit of his humour or signature dance moves.
Though they haven’t yet connected with the recipients, the family plans to when the time feels right. “We want to hear their stories,” they say. “Andrew’s legacy continues to impact people, and we want to honour that.” If Andrew could see the lives he touched, they imagine he’d flash his cheeky grin and make a witty remark—something like, “Told you I was incredible!” But deep down, they know he’d be proud of the ripple effect of his courage.
To keep Andrew’s memory alive, his family hosts an annual memorial golf tournament followed by a social gathering at their Marysburg farm—a place Andrew loved. “It’s a chance to share stories, laugh, and celebrate the joy he brought us,” they explain. Friends and family come together, ensuring his spirit remains a vibrant part of their lives.
A Message of Hope
Andrew’s story is one of love, loss, and the transformative power of organ & tissue donation. “We hope people remember Andrew for the light he was,” his family says. “His life was filled with joy, and his final act reflected who he was—generous, courageous, and full of heart.” They want his story to inspire others to consider organ & tissue donation and understand the profound difference it can make. “It doesn’t ease the pain of loss,” they acknowledge, “but it brings light in the darkness”.
To families facing a similar decision, they offer this advice: “Honour your loved one’s wishes. Knowing they gave the greatest gift possible—the gift of life—brings peace.” For the Puetz family, Andrew’s choice has been a beacon of hope. “We’d tell him his final act was heroic,” they say. “He showed the world how selfless he was, and we’ll keep his legacy alive by inspiring others to live with generosity, kindness, and maybe a few dance moves.”
Join Us in Andrew’s Mission
Andrew’s story is a powerful reminder of why the Move for Life Foundation exists—to celebrate the heroes who give life and inspire others to do the same. We invite you to honour Andrew’s legacy by registering as an organ donor, sharing his story, or supporting our mission to raise awareness. Visit www.moveforlifefoundation.com to learn more and take the first step.
Let’s keep Andrew’s light shining—together, we can move for life.