Andrew Furlong

In loving memory of Andrew John Furlong, who departed our lives on April 24, 2024. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Andy, who left an indelible mark on all the people who knew and loved him. He was born on May 13, 1971 in Edina, MN to John and Itti Furlong. Throughout his life, Andy was smart, quick witted, funny, gentle, and armed with an amazing memory. He loved music and sports, especially tennis, and in his later years eagerly tracked and watched Minnesota teams of all varieties. Most of all, he loved his family ... Furlongs, Hartigans, Hogans & all their offshoots both near and far. Andy's life was extraordinary, but not without struggle. As a young man, he was diagnosed with a type of schizophrenia that primarily encompassed disordered communication. More recently he battled the impact of severely diseased organs, facing all these hardships with admirable bravery and strength. He navigated them with support from his family and caring mental health professionals from M Health Fairview throughout his life and most recently with both the Southdale and University of Minnesota hospitals, and in particular with guidance from the University of Minnesota Solid Organ Transplant team. Despite the work of these kind, amazing specialists and Andy's fortitude, his body couldn't win the battle. Andy lived well in the face of challenge, turning hardships into blessings in unexpected ways. He opened eyes to the world of mental health, providing insight that brought out acceptance, empathy and courage in others. To know Andy was a privilege and may his legacy inspire greater compassion and open mindedness. Andy is survived by parents, John and Coletta Furlong, Edina, MN; sister Aileen Caffrey (Henry), Chicago, IL; sister, Jonna Hirsch (Brent), and niece and nephew Clare and Bennett Hirsch, Minnetonka, MN. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to M Health Fairview Fund for Mental Health Services in Andy's honor: makingagift.umn.edu/give/.... There will be a private service for immediate family and later this summer a celebration of life in Chicago, IL with his extended family. Dance on Andy ... you will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Tributes

Andrew Furlong

May 13, 1971 - April 24, 2024

Tributes

Andrew Furlong

May 13, 1971 - April 24, 2024

We are here for you 24x7

Call us and get help now

(612) 377-2203