January 28, 1968 - March 2, 2024
Andrew James Hallsted, 56, passed away peacefully in his home on March 2, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Despite being diagnosed with a seizure disorder at age 2, Andrew loved life and those around him. He spent countless hours putting together his puzzles, watching Donut Repair Club, and reading his favorite books, the Bible and Dr. Seuss.
He spent a lot of time in and out of the hospital, being treated for various injuries that happened as a result of the seizures.
He continually surprised the doctors with his patience, resilience, and strength. He re-educated the entire medical community on what they thought they knew about seizures, as he defied all expectations. He was never expected to survive past age 12, so every day beyond that was a gift.
Although his life was wrought with difficulty, Andrew’s faith never wavered. He always met each challenge with quiet acceptance. Andrew was a shining example to all who met him, often quoting Bible passages to encourage people at just the right time. Everyone who knew Andrew was charmed by his infectious smile and heroic spirit and delighted to be a part of anything that caused his mischievous grin. The combination of his beaming smile and love of climbing earned him the nickname “Monkeyshine” that lasted throughout his life.
Andrew is preceded in death by parents, Bill & Arlene Hallsted of Hot Springs. He is survived by a brother, Don (Laurie) Hallsted of Fort Dodge, Iowa; three sisters, Nancy (Jim) French of Brooklyn, N.Y., Connie (Floyd) Gorsuch of Hot Springs, and Bonnie (Bob) Wanzer of Hot Springs; ten nieces and nephews, and thirteen great-nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Andrew’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 7, 2024, at Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Hot Springs, S.D. Committal services will be held 12:30 P.M., at the Greenwood Cemetery in Chadron, Neb.