We don't often talk about virtues in society anymore, but there is no way to talk about Andrew Draemel Balch, known as Andy, without naming a few of them. Born in Virginia on July 10, 1949, Andy was born to a family with deep Navy roots as the middle child of three boys. As Andy grew up, he became what his younger brother Tom described as "he rock of our family."

Andy had a passionate love of learning. From an early age, he was driven to excel at all that he did. His brothers recall that even when playing board games, Andy would always study the problem and then take the most aggressive approach possible. He graduated from Valley Forge Military Academy before earning his bachelor's degree in engineering from the University of Michigan, followed by obtaining his MBA there as well. His love of learning continued throughout his life. He could give you detailed explanations about almost anything, and if he didn?€™t know the answer to a question, he would make a point to find out. Andy could regularly be seen reading through an encyclopedia, curious to learn more about history and how things worked. After completing his graduate studies and because of his love of aviation, Andy became an accomplished pilot and served his country in the United States Air Force and was once awarded "Man of the Year," demonstrating another character trait that was seen throughout his life: his persevering dedication to others.

Andy was the epitome of a loving and loyal family man. He met his adoring wife Diane while in college. They married in 1980 and had four daughters, finally settling in Mill Valley, California. There was never any doubt that his girls and wife were the pride and joy of his life. Taking care of his family gave him deep purpose. Andy always attended his daughters' games, and he could frequently be found behind the grill at the girls' many swim meets, always taking breaks to cheer when his girls were up. Andy showed his love of God, family, and neighbor every day through acts of service. His Christian charity was so firmly rooted within him that he could never pass by anyone in need. If he saw a car on the side of the road, he always stopped and helped, even if it made him late to an important meeting. If a stranger was lost, he would provide them with maps and step-by-step directions to ensure they made it to their destination.

Andy had a very accomplished career that started at Gulf Oil and then Chevron. He worked exceptionally hard and facilitated major deals that would make anyone proud. When asked what his crowning professional achievement was, Andy responded that he was most proud of the countless times he was able to help his co-workers. Whether it was successfully fighting for someone to keep their job or advocating for someone to receive a well-deserved raise, he always wanted to make sure his team thrived and knew he cared. Even upon his death, his family received countless letters from work colleagues from over the years praising and thanking Andy for all he did for them and their careers.

Andy had a deep and special love for the National Air and Space Museum. Not only did he take his future bride on a date there over 40 years ago, but he also was very eager to share the museum with his children. Andy was so excited for his daughters to see the new museum in Chantilly, that he scheduled an especially long layover at Dulles Airport so that he could take them there.

Andy passed away on May 2, 2014, surrounded by his family and friends. The words from St. Matthew's Gospel encapsulates Andy's life: "He has done all things well." It was a privilege to know Andy, and all who knew him were made better for it and incredibly blessed.