Andrew T. Muldowney

Andrew Thomas Muldowney, 33 of Byron, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2014 in his home. Born August 6, 1981 in Rockford, Illinois to Thomas and Rosemary (Naze) Muldowney. Attended Boylan Catholic High School before Graduating high school from St. John Northwestern Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin. Received his Bachelors Degree at Northern Illinois University. Andrew was currently pursuing a nursing degree at St. Anthony's School of Nursing in Rockford.
Andrew's sisters were a constant loving presence throughout his life as he was the baby of the family. If Andrew needed them, they were there, always. He was always grateful for their love and unwavering support. He considered their husbands like the brothers he never had. While Andrew was a very private person, he also had a loving heart. If Andrew saw someone in need, he would quietly offer his assistance and be happy with a hug as thanks. He never sought recognition or attention and always had a soft spot for anyone who needed help. He spent considerable time this past year visiting an ailing uncle to offer love and support to both him and his aunt, which further encouraged his desire to pursue the nursing field. He preferred a very simple life with "no hassles". Your parents, sisters, nieces and nephews and the rest of your entire family will miss you deeply, Andrew. We will miss that big smile that could light up a room and your deep belly laugh that was so contagious. Please know that you brought so much joy to all our lives. Your untimely passing will leave such a huge void that can never be filled. We will be comforted knowing that you are at peace in the loving arms of Our Lord. We were proud of you, every day of your life. You never gave up hope. God bless you, Andrew, our dear and beloved son, until we meet again. "You are Loved".
Survived by his parents; Thomas and Rosemary; Sisters and Brothers-in-law; Jessica and Shawn Connors, Katie Muldowney and Jason Arnold and Libby and Mark Samuelson. Andrew dearly loved his nieces and nephews; Goddaughter Angelica Muldowney, Ian and Isaac Samuelson and Samuel, Amelia and Goddaughter Evelyn Connors. They all loved Andrew very much and they provided Andrew with some of the greatest joys of his life. He always looked forward to when "the children" would come to visit. Fishing was one of their favorite activities to share, along with swimming, hiking through the forest and visiting the neighboring llamas. There were endless video games, movies, chess and card games that always got Andrew laughing when they didn't follow the rules, but he didn't care. He just loved being with them. Grandmother, Rita "Mimi" Naze. Andrew had a deep love and respect for his Mimi and she offered Andrew her constant love, encouragement and support throughout his life. He is also survived by many loving aunts and uncles who were always there to offer a helping hand a shoulder to lean on. And also survived by many special cousins, too numerous to name. Every one held a special place in Andrew's heart. They shared so many happy memories throughout their entire lives. There was never a dull moment when with any of them. If they hadn't been together for a while, it didn't matter. When they gathered the fun just picked up right where it had left off. Andrew would be the first to say that he was very lucky to be part of such a wonderful loving family. He loved you all very much and was so very grateful for the love and continued support each and every one of you showed to him during his life. Andrew's family would like to thank everyone who has offered their love, support and especially their thoughtful prayers for Andrew this past year. You provided a great strength when we didn't have it. And a special thank you to Vlad Holobiev for his caring attention to Andrew over the last year. You became a trusted friend, for which we are very grateful.
Predeceased by his grandparents, Glenn and Bernadette Muldowney and Anthony Naze; uncles, Roger Erb, Steve and Dan Muldowney and Ed Wilson; his beloved Godmother and aunt Janice Muldowney, cousins, Rachael Clark, Thomas A. Muldowney and Katie M. Muldowney.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30am on Friday, September 19, 2014 at St. Rita Catholic Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Drive, Rockford. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory (Mulford Chapel) 1860 S. Mulford Road with a Rosary to be recited at 7:30 p.m. Following the Rosary, there will be an informal gathering to share memories, if you wish to offer a memorial for Andrew, we would only ask that you continue to offer prayers for Andrew. There is no greater gift. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.