Raymond Neal Andrews

Raymond Neal Andrews, 80 of West Terre Haute, passed away on Saturday December 6th, 2025. He was born on April 14th, 1945, in Indianapolis, to Dallas and Velma (Lee) Andrews.

Ray spent 65 years as an amateur radio operator. His interest was first sparked when his father gave him an AM/Short Wave radio. He enjoyed spending numerous hours listening to many different stations around the world, such as HCJB, the BBC, and Radio Moscow. Shortly before his 15th birthday, Ray passed his first Amateur Radio exam after just a few weeks of studying for it. In February of 1961 he passed his Technician Exam and was granted the callsign K9DUR, which he used until his death. Ray received several awards over the course of his time as an amateur radio operator, including the Brentlinger Award from WVARA and the Indiana Amateur of the Year from the Indiana Radio Club Council.

Ray earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University in 1968. However, he became a self-taught software engineer during his career. He used this skill to write code for Flex Radio as that part of Amateur Radio evolved. Ray often taught classes to students studying to pass their Amateur Radio licensing exams. He used his over-the-air communication skills to help with Emergency Services in Marion County, Races, weather spotting for the NWS, and Civil Air Patrol. He retired from CAP as a Lieutenant Colonel after over 20 years of volunteer service.

Ray is survived by his wife of 19 years, Pamela Andrews; daughters Sarah Sotak (Jay), Anna Andrews, Diana Abrahams; son Joe Andrews (Katzen); sister Joan Weiss; stepchildren Kathleen Brewer (Larry) and Karen Monroe Porter (Stan Martin); grandchildren Jessica Grant (Sam), Katarina Shriver (Xachious), Maureen Sotak and Gabriel Collier.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas and Velma Andrews; a son, John Andrews (Tracey); as well as, brothers Bob and Jean Andrews.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation was chosen. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 27th, 2025, at North Terre Haute Christian Church, 3133 E Park Ave, Terre Haute, IN beginning at 2:00pm. A visitation will be held at the church from 1:00pm until the time of the service. A private burial will take place at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Fitzpatrick Funeral Home.

Online condolences can be left at: www.fitzpatrick-funeralhome.com.