The Sauerwein family was the first group of people that I discovered my husband and I knew in common when we first started dating. How did this guy know the dad of one of my Special Olympics athletes? Turns out Steve Sauerwein is not only a great but modest barbeque grill master (yes, he blessed us with his skills at cycling competition), but also a great but modest saxophonist and band director thus the connection with Steven, now my husband. So, if the Sauerwein family was friends with Steven, then he had to be a good guy.
Steven(Sodders)'s favorite memory of Andrew is Special Olympics swimming at state games. Andrew won gold (we almost had to catch Stacy as she cheered from the stands with no regard for the railing on the second story or gravity). Upon receiving his gold medal, Andrew used his towel as a cape, reminiscent of James Brown, knowing that he was the king. My favorite memory is during SO cycling. Every time Andrew passed in front of the Lake Travis fan club, we all would cheer although I'm sure his parents were the loudest. Ever the cool dude, Andrew would give us side eye as he sped past, acknowledging us in his own way without breaking his concentration and keeping his eyes on the prize.
My heart goes out to the Sauerwein family. Andrew certainly made an impression on us and will be so sorely missed, but never, ever forgotten.
Marisa and Steven Sodders
