Andrew Shella
December 31, 1969 - December 31, 1969

"Andy, you will be greatly missed!!! May you rest in peace!"

"Jim- My thoughts and prayers for strength and peace are with you and your family. I am so sorry."

"Jim and Connie, I am so sorry this happened to you. There is no pain greater than losing a child. I know, I lost my one and only Lindsay about 1 1/2 years ago the day after Christmas, home from grad school. After the shock wore off I found that talking with other women in the same situation helped a lot. So did a little booklet that I will xerox and send to you. Again, Art and I send our deepest condolences."

"Connie,I am so sorry for your loss. There are no words. I love you and I pray for peace for you and your family."

"Jim and Connie are in my prayers"

"My deepest heartfelt sympathies to you all."

"Jim:I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that your beautiful memories of Andy will be a comfort and help as you grieve. God be with your family at this sad time."

"I was deeply saddened to hear of Andy's passing. You will be in my thoughts and prayers."

"Jim: I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May you rest in peace Andy."

"Dear Shella Family,My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your sister Barb is one of my closest friends and she shared this tragic news with us . I have no words except to say know you are in our prayers. With sympathy, Lisa Saxer Buros"

"Jim, Connie, and Katie,May the happy memories of Andrew comfort you in this time of great sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. "

"Jim, Connie & Katie,Judy and I are incredibly saddened by your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time as you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many in the ADA community. Take comfort in the happy times and memories and let them be the ones that remain.Deepest, deepest sympathies,"

"Jim, Connie, and Katie,I was stunned to hear of Andy's death. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn. May the many memories you have and the warmth of the stories you hear of him, help settle your heart. May you feel the nearness of God. Marla"

"Dear Shella Family,Andy was always a great friend. I will always remember his humor and loyalty as a friend. He will truly be missed by all those lucky enough to call him a friend."

"Jim and Connie,I am so very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family -- you will be in my thoughts and prayers. "

"Dear Shella Family, I was so sad to hear of Andy's passing. He was a great friend and I have many fond childhood memories of him. He was extremely loyal and was a great friend to all. I will always remember our great times in school especially visiting Williamsburg together. Warmly, Barbara Berman"

"Will always remember Andy's intelligence and bright attitude from Westlane, To NCHS to IU. RIP AJS.-E.P."

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Shella and KatieI am so very sorry for your recent loss. My heart hurts for you. Although I am far away, my thoughts are with you. "

"Connie, Jim & Katie,We were devastated by the very sad news about Andy. Andy was a wonderful young man who made a huge positive impact on the world around him. I had an opportunity to get to know him when he volunteered at Camp Maxwell in Nova Scotia a few years ago. He made lots of friends in this part of the world and will be sorely missed. My memories of Andy will mostly involve the two of us putting up tents in the Canadian wilderness in the pouring rain with Andy telling me a slew of really bad jokes, keeping us laughing and not caring about the conditions. Andy had a wonderful way of dealing with adversity.We will be planting a garden at camp in Nova Scotia in his name. We will always remember him fondly."

"Jim and Connie, works cannot begin to express how sad this news is. Please know that your friends are thinking of you.Rick"

"Andy you are a great guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Rest in peace."

"Connie and Jim, we are so sorry and sad for you. Please know you are in our thoughts. We hope that you will someday be able to smile at the memories of what a fine son Andy was. "

"Dear Connie, All of us at the American Diabetes Association wanted to let you know how very sorry we are to hear about Andy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May your memories of the wonderful times with Andy help you through this terrible time. "

"Although I did not have an opportunity to really know Andrew, I have heard so many good things from you and the folks at Joslin. Having been in your exact situation, it is so hard to accept the loss of a child. Connie and Jim, you have both been such an energy source to those of us who work in the area of diabetes, I hope that there is at least some support from the wide spread feelings in that huge group of friends you and he have touched"

"Jim, Connie, & Katie -I am saddened to hear about Andy's sudden passing. I enjoyed getting to know Andy growing up at PVLC. My prayers are with you. I will be out of town and unable to attend Andy's service. I wanted to send my condolences."

"Dear Jim and Connie, My thoughts and prayers with your family on your loss."

"Dear Jim, Connie, Katie, & other family and friends - I was so heartbroken to hear of Andy's unexpected passing. He was a wonderful young man and always able to make us laugh! I have such fond memories of Andy from our days in PVLC youth group to sharing classes together in school. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. "

"Connie, I only know Andy through the times you spoke of him while at various industry board meetings. I especially remember what you had to say about his love for and dedication to diabetes camps. No words can console at this time. Just know there is a world of caring souls out here sending love and support your way."

"My deepest sympathy to your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.Andrew had many friends and will be truly missed."

"Jim & FamilyPlease know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this most difficult time. John"

"Jim, Connie and Kate:We were so very shocked to hear the news of Andy's passing - it is such a loss. You are in our prayers and thoughts at this time. We'll never forget our IU connection with Andy or Kate. We are very sorry.John and Patty"

"Jim ... your family is in our thoughts and prayers. "

"Jim, I'm so sorry to hear this. He sounded like a wonderful son and great blessing to others -- just like his dad. I will be praying for God to help you in the difficult days ahead."

"Jim and family,I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. "

"Jim:I was so sorry to hear about Andy. I had the priviledge of meeting him very briefly at some event, and I recall his wonderful warm and ethusiastic personality. My sincere sympathy to you, Connie and Kate. May you find your strength and comfort through your memories."

"The Shella Family,I was heartbroken today to hear of Andy's passing. I worked with Andy at Joslin many years ago and although we lost touch after camp I never forgot him. His smile, his attitude and his really bad jokes have made me smile many times since.Andy was an absolute gentleman as well as a gentle man and a credit to his family and those around him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.Ian"

"Dear Connie and Jim: I was shocked and saddened by the news of Andy's death. I told my boys it was yet another example of bad things happening to good people. I hope your fond memories will eventually fill the void left by Andy's passing.Sincerely,Amy "

"Connie and Jim: Wishing you and the family more peaceful days and the ability to rejoice in celebration of Andrew's life, a shining star that burned brightly and dimmed all too soon. "

"Words can't even begin to describe how deeply sorry I am for your loss. I worked with Shella at Camp Joslin for many years. I'm not going to lie, my first encounter with him, I was a bit scared. It was pretty early in the morning and I asked him to pass me the milk. I think he just grunted at me. I quickly learned that he was not a morning person! But our second encounter, which was in the afternoon, went much better. He made some joke and then gave that big grin from ear to ear and then started laughing. I can still hear that laugh. I fell in love right then and there and knew I had a great friend for life. He will never be forgotten and I will always remember the amazing times we had together. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. I hope that knowing his Camp Joslin family is all over the world sending their love and support eases some of the pain for you all. I love you Shella! ~Kelly"

"May my memory of Andy at Camp Joslin, so full of vitality and good spirit, bring some measure of comfort to you at this incredibly difficult time."

"Dear Jim, Connie & Katie: The Shella family has long held a special place in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days ahead. "

"What you did for not only me personally growing up, but the devotion you showed all the young boys with Diabetes out at Joslin summer after summer will never be forgotten Shella. You are dearly loved by all of the Joslin community and will be missed terribly. May you rest forever in peace."

"What a bright, caring, humorous young man you were Shella!!! I feel very blessed to have had the chance to work with you at EPJ for many years. You had such a wonderful way of interacting with the campers and staff and I am so saddened by this loss! You will truly be missed!! "

"I AM PRAYING FOR ALL OF YOUR FAMILY. ANYTHING I CAN DO JUST CALL."

"Jim, Connie, and Katie,Ivan and I are so very, very sorry about your loss. There aren't words to express our feelings. We hope you will find comfort in the support of your friends and family and even those, like us, who aren't so close to you, but know like and admire you and your family."

"My thoughts and condolences are with the Shella family. I hope that the memories I have of being a camper of Shella's when he was a CIT and later an SC at Camp Joslin show the good will and passion he brought to each and every person he crossed path's with at camp. Know that the passion and energy he wore and shared so openly lives on in the hearts and actions of every camper and staff member, past, present and future, that comes to Camp Joslin to do good and gain a lifetime's worth of knowledge and friendship. I love you Shella, you are outstanding, I and all of Camp Joslin will miss you dearly. Rest in Peace. '"

"Shella made a huge impact in both our lives in different ways. He had a contagious smile and awesome sense of humor. He was respected and looked up to by all who he worked with at Camp Joslin and will forever be remembered and his legacy will live on at Indian Council and cabin talks. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and tears are shed for all that knew him, it is a tremendous loss to this earth, but a blessing onto heaven."

"God's peace and blessings to the entire Shella family during this difficult time. Our deepest sympathies to you all on the loss of your son and brother. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Jayne & Kris Thinnes"

"Shella, Shella...I'll never forget your goofy laugh, your consistent smirk, or your wild dancefloor moves... Once we finally woke the bear from his slumber each morning (with a broom no less!), our efforts were awarded with nonstop humor and antics. You motivated and inspired your campers like nobody else could...those kids worshipped you. You impacted your world in a huge and positive way. We pretended it was our little secret, but everyone knew how much you loved those kids because you gave them the best parts of you. Follow the Gleam. "

"I don't even know how to express my sorrow for this loss, or for the gratitude I had from knowing Andrew. He was a spectacular person. I remember having him as a camper in my cabin and later working with him as a fellow counselor. He was funny, caring, and a great friend. God bless. "

"I spent many years myself as a staff member at Camp Joslin, and as staff, I tried as hard as I could to lead and inspire young people in the most positive way I could. In doing so, I always thought back on the counselors I had both as a camper and a new staff that made a significant and positive impact on me; my thoughts always came to Andy Shella. The deep, positive and profound impact you had on so many young lives lived not only through your work Andy but in the many, many staff who followed you and tried their hardest to be just like you. Your legacy carries on now and forever; Im no longer a counselor, but I still find myself trying to be like you, one of the best role models I ever had."

"Dear Shella Family,I am very saddened to hear about your tragic loss. I had the greatest pleasure of attending middle school through high school with Andy and there isn't a moment I can remember him without a huge smile on his face, always there to brighten everyone's day! What a wonderful young man you have raised who has touched many lives in the most positive ways. My deepest prayers and condolences are with your family during this difficult time. Andy, may you rest in peace, you will be greatly missed by many!"

"Andy, may you finally have the peace you deserve. I will miss you and NEVER forget about you. Mr. and Mrs. Shella, on behalf of myself and Starbucks, we send our sincere condolences."

"When I read recently that a Camp Joslin alumni had died , I must admit I had to take another look. Andy Shella @ 27 years young? The chap from the mid-west with the distinctive grin (and twang that put my accent to shame!). Shella, Joslin was/is a place that has inspired many to greater things post Richardson's Corner Rd. You were NO exception. Yr ability to function on four hours sleep a night, constantly treating hypos, raking leaves, lugging around heavy trunks (with consumate ease) and enabling a Kiwi to teach and learn off you the great game of rugby.My thoughts are with you mate. Gone far too soon but with us all in our pancreas - that's like our hearts....only deeper!"

"Ahh...Andy.. The tiniest baby I have ever held. You came too soon and left way too soon. That sweet child who had the most HORRIBLE case of chicken pox ever recorded (your mother should display that at the memorial service to avenge you for those teenage years!) and who had the wackiest sense of humor (got that one honestly) is the child that will be missed by all. Your spirit is soaring now and you will be missed. "

"Dear Shella Family,I don"

" Our prayers go to the Shella family.. "

"Jim, My deepest condolences; I know you will cherish the great memories but I am so sorry for your loss."

"I am so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Andy in my day care so long ago. I'm grateful to have known him. "

"I was heartbroken to hear of Andy's passing. I had the pleasure of working with him at Texas Roadhouse. He was a wonderful young man with a bright future. He will be missed by many. My prayers go out to the whole Shella family during this awful time. "

"I remember Andy as a player on my first Major boys baseball team. In the very short few months that I knew him, I came away with the impression that i was in the company of a solid young man. That is a tribute to good loving parenting. Peace and love to your family.Your friends at WDT Little League"

"Jim,I'm so sorry for your family's loss. Words fail me but know that you're all in my prayers."

"May God keep you in his arms and hold you tight during your heartbreaking trial. "

"Jim, Connie, and Katie,We have lost a good spriit. Andy's love for life will continue through each of you. I am so sorry that words and hugs cannot take away the loss you are feeling. You will be in our prayers."

"Jim: You have my deepest sympathies. We're thinking of you in Washington. "

"Jim-You and your family are in my prayers. I'm so sorry for your loss."

"Andy was a really good guy and will be missed. Sorry for your loss."

"Jim, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. You are a class act and served as a tremendous role model for your son. "

"Connie, you and your family are in my prayers. You have saved many lives during your lifetime, but God was ready for Andy. Please be sure to take care of yourself."

"Sorry for the sudden loss of your son. Sending our prayers and condolences to you."

"Jim and Family: My deepest sympathy to you all. May God's healing hands be with you through the upcoming time giving you peace and grace. God Bless you all. "

"To the Shella Family,My deepest condolences to you in this time of loss. I'm sure you know already how much Andrew meant to so many people and the lives he has touched will never be the same. I am so proud to have called Andrew a friend. I met him at Camp Joslin in 2003. I was a shy Canadian kid and Andy took me under his wing. I have never laughed so much as when I was around Andy. Rest in peace my dear friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you now.Matt MacInnis"

"Dear Shella Family, Any time the summer came to an end and I left Joslin Andy Shella, "Big Country" was someone I hoped I would get the chance to see and work with again. As a fellow camper, and later staff member at Joslin Andy's enthusiasm, and sense of humor was a tremendous gift. I still picture Andy's face lighting up when we shared a laugh and it warms my heart. I am sorry for your loss. "

"Connie, my deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. I know how much Andy meant to you all. And I am sure he will be missed greatly. I am praying for you that you will sense God's presence in this storm and feel His everlasting peace."

"Dear Shella family, I am so sorry to hear of Andy's sudden death. Such a tragedy. I remember Andy as a young boy who showed exceptional kindness to my daughter, Megan when they attended school together. May God rest him."

"Jim: my sincere condolences to you and your family. john"

"I first met Connie when she was pregnant with Andy. He was one of the lights of your life. My heart goes out to you and all of your family."

"Jim & Connie: I'm very sorry to hear about your loss. While I did not know Andy it sounds as though he was a great young man, and will be missed by lots of family and friends. You are in our prayers, and hope that you can find peace with your loss in time. A high school friend of Jims . Tom Foster"

"I cannot imagine the pain you are experiencing. My prayer is for God to grant you peace and comfort in the days and weeks ahead."

"Those of us from Joslin Camp who were privileged to see Andy grow into the handsome, personable and caring young man that he was share in your grief at his loss. "

"Jim -- So sad to hear of your son's passing. You were such a mentor to me at Channel 8 (even when I was an intern) and you must have been a terrific father as well. Steve joins me in sending our deepest sympathies and condolences at this sad news. God bless."

"Jim, Connie and KatieMom, Bunnie and I are so saddened to hear of Andy's death. I will always have the picture of that funny, smiling 2 year old that I babysit with at Knob In The Woods. Our prayers are with you."

"Connie and Family: Saddened to hear your loss. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. "

"Connie, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time. I never had the honor of meeting your beloved son, but I know he had to be as kind hearted and special as his mother. I pray that all your memories help to heal your broken hearts."

"Jim and Connie & Family:You have my condolences and thoughts. One of my twin sons, Vincent, died from esophogeal varices last July 30th in California just shy of his 35th birthday. My other son, Brett, was near death too at the time, but is better for now. Losing a son or daughter is hard on parents. I hope you two can find comfort in each other, famiily, friends, church, and good memories of times shared with Andy.Bruce BradenYour former Letter Carrier"

" I met Andy when I first started working at Applebees. He was a great friend. He could always make me laugh when I was having a bad day. He will be forever loved and never forgotten. My heart goes out to you, I hope you find peace in the difference he has made in so many lives.Pamela"

"Connie, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Roxann (pt of Dr. Boyce many years ago)"

"Katie, Jim and Connie,Im so sorry for your loss. I dearly enjoyed Andy! He always made me laugh. Your in my heart and prayers. May peace be with you. Charrie "

"Connie,My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Amy"

"Dear Shella Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. I was lucky enough to spend time working with Andrew at Camp Joslin, one of my first memories of arriving there was meeting him and having him and having him become one of my first friends at Joslin and the reason I came back for many years after as I aspired to be the counselor that he is. The way he touched the lives of the campers was like nothing else I have ever seen. I'm thankful for the moments I spent with Andrew as I wouldn't be who I am today. That laugh and smile is something I will never forget.Andrew Shella was and forever will be Cabin 1."

"Jim & ConnieAndy has always been one of the kids that I coached that always comes to my mind with a smile. He always will. I was shocked to learn of his passing and can't express my deepest sympathy for you both.He will always have a special place in my heart and memory as I know he will with every family member, friend and acquaintance that knew and loved him.You both have my prayers and thoughts during this difficult time.Sincerely,Mike Comparato"

"I have been priviledged to know Andy since he was a child. Every child brings gifts, talents, and ideas to their classrooms. Andy brought many. Andy brought laughter, a smile that was contagious. He was perceptive and compassionate. When Andy observed other student's difficulties, he reached out or reported to his teacher that someone needed encouragement. He often stepped forward when others were reluctant. I am sure his Great 8 Team classmates remember Andy as the giant grape in "I Heard it Through the Grapevine." Only Andy could be both serious and silly at the same time and pull it off, leading the way for others to follow. He had that kind of courage and leadership. Andy was sensitive to other's needs, feeling things deeply. He was accepting of differing opinions, pulling his classmates together to help form a unified team. One of his classmates told me today that the two years together were her happiest because everyone in the class truly liked each other. Andy's essential pieces, his gifts, helped this bond to form. We wrote tributes to each other during those years. It was easy for his classmates to write to him, no one even had to stop to think before they picked up their pencils. Connie and Jim were wonderfully supportive of their son. Andy knew he was loved. I will always remember his love for his big sister, Katie. From the time he was seven years old, until I spoke with him about a year ago, Andy giggled and had a big smile when talking about Katie. He had a sense of brotherly love and loyalty for Katie, and Katie likewise for Andy. Each was well-deserved. I was struck by the number of lives Andy touched in his short years when reading the condolences. Andy began giving early in his life. It was natural. "

"I first met Andy when I worked in the clinic at Westlane M. S. He was in several times a day with his wonderful smile. He could even get Mrs. Mayer to lighten up. At North Central, Andy & Clarence would stop by the Spirit Shop to entertain me with rugby stories. I remember when Andy worked at Marsh at 86th & Ditch. It was always good to visit with him.I am happy to read what a blessing Andy was in so many lives, & so sad that his time on earth was short. My thoughts and prayers are with you all."

"You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time."

"To Mr.& Mrs. James Shella and Family, Ps 30:1-5 Andy is one of the few young men, that left, an indelible mark in my heart and mind, as a Little-League coach. When asked what position he wanted to play, Andy remarked, Right-field,Right-field,Right-field. Once we got past that hurdle, he said that , he would like to play First-base, needless to say Andy was one of the best 1st-basemen in the league (WDT) I always enjoyed having Andy as a player and he had two of the best Little-League parents! If you've ever coached you know what I mean. Andy also became one the best hitters on the team! I selected Andy to play on the All-Star Team one season , however his commitment to Diabetes camp would'nt him to participate. On occasion Loertta and I would see Andy, on his jobs as normal he was always politeand respectful! Andy will be missed but never forgotten! He was an absolute joy to know. The entire Jones Family."

"Dear Connie and Jim: It is with great sadness that we learn about the passing of Andy. We had fun times at WDT and seeing Andy grow into a fine adult. He will be missed by all. God bless the Shella family. God bless Andy.Matt, Bobby, Carol, and Elliott Segal"

"Dear Shella Family,We are so sorry for your loss.Lotfi Family, Indianapolis"

"Dear Connie, Jim, and Katie: The Segal family is so sorry to learn about the passing of Andy. He was a wonderful young man and will be missed by all. God bless the Shella family and God bless Andy.Matt, Bobby, Carol, and Elliott Segal"

"We're keeping you in our prayers."

"Dear Shella family,Andy was a great friend. Throughout high school, in the classroom and on the rugby field, and while at IU he could always make us laugh. He will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.Ben"

"Dear Connie, Jim & Kate:My thoughts and prayers are with you. Andy was a person who made an great & lasting impression on many people and he had many many friends. He is truly unforgettable. I met Andy when I came to Camp Joslin to volunteer for a week a number of years a back.. He also volunteered at our Camp Maxwell in Nova Scotia and made friends here too. I share sadness in your loss of Andy. Please know that my memories of him at camp, his great smile and laugh will be remembered and he will be missed."

"Jim and Connie,It is evident by all the people who attended today that your family has touched many lives. Your friends and colleagues are thinking of you both."

"The Lawson family were shocked and saddened by the news of Andy's passing. We remember watching Andy and my nephew/cousin Bobby Segal playing ball at WDT -Those were such wonderful years and memories. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers. "

"Andy's service was lovely. What loving remembrances in this guestbook. There are so many people pulling for you. I hope it brings comfort. Our hearts go out to you. - John,Mollie, Marshall and Kathy"

"Dear Jim and Connie,As I read some of the wonderful tributes to your son I was amazed by the depth and breadth of his influence on so many lives during his short time here on earth. Many do not accomplish what Andy did in three times his life span. What a blessing he was to so many, and how thankful are all who knew him. What a wonderful legacy for you to cherish, albeit bittersweet as you mourn the loss of someone so special. My prayers join those of so many others as we pray for God's peace to surround you and your family.Sincerely,Lynn "

"I have great memories of all of us at Pleasant View growing up. Keep your strength in yours. I am so sorry for you all. "

"Jim, Connie and Katie,We were shocked and saddened to hear of Andy's sudden passing. He was always such a joy to be around during our time at PVLC. You all will certainly be in our prayers in the days and weeks to come. "

"I was so shocked to hear today about Andy. I worked with Andy when he was a 2nd year CIT at Camp Joslin, and again when he came my way to volunteer at Camp Maxwell in Nova Scotia. I remember Andy always cracking jokes and getting everyone else to laugh, too... he had an infectious boom of a laugh that echoed through the dining hall. Andy was very perceptive to the feelings of others and listened carefully when others spoke. I believe the campers he worked with looked up to him and felt secure in his presence. Andy was a very special guy, and made a positive impact on many lives. I hope it brings his family some comfort that he will be remembered so well. Sara "

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of loss."

"Dear Jim, Connie, and Katie,I read with sadness of the death of Andrew. I am not certain, but I may have brought him into the world. Connie, I have very pleasant memories of your being in my office. I know that I can speak for my former staff and unequivocally say that you were always a favorite patient. You brightened everyone's day with your visits.I was at the church yesterday, but a little too late to speak with all of you, as the line had to be stopped in order to begin the service. You are all in my thoughts and you have my deepest sympathy for your loss. With kindest regards,Evan Lehman"

"I can't begin to count the number of classes I had with Andy, but his passion and thirst for life will never be forgotten. Best wishes for peace in this trying time to you all and God bless. "

"I am deeply saddened to here of Andy's passing. I was his Marketing teacher at North Central and he participated in DECA competition as well. He made a very postive impression on me. I enjoyed having him in the program.I know how he will be missed. Bless you all and knowthat he is remembered."

"Cousin Con, Jim, and Katie, It hurts me to be writing this knowing that there are no words that can comfort you at such a hard time. Andy will be missed forever. During our hard times a friend told me "When a door opens in Heaven - a window opens and it shines a light on you! And it is the light of your loved one." Keep all the memories and fun times of Andy close to your heart. We'll be in touch. I Love you. Kristi"

"Jim Shella & Family,So sorry to hear about your loss. We lost my boyfriend's 35 year old son unexpectedly almost a year ago as a result of diabetes complications. Reminds me how important it is to be active in the education about this disease so we can try to prevent more tragic losses. My heartfelt sympathy to you all."

"Dear Shella Family,It is with a heavy heart that I express my deepest regrets for the loss of your son Andy. Unfortunately I didn't know Andy myself, but I've spoken to Camp Joslin alumni and staff who knew him and read the many caring comments by his peers and friends, expressing what a great person he was and what a difference he made in the lives of so many campers and staff. On behalf of The Barton Center (we're currently managing Camp Joslin), our staff, and our alumni, I'd like to express our sadness and sympathy and hope it helps you, in this time of grief, to know that so many people care and share your feelings of loss. "

"Connie and family,I just found out about your loss. I am so very sorry and deeply saddened. Connie, you were always the strength I needed when our son Brian was diagnosed. I could call you anytime for advice. You don't know how much this meant to me. I only wish there was something that I could do or say to you at this time. May you find comfort in the many beautiful memories you have of Andy. I know you were so very proud of all of his accomplishments. I will pray that the Lord will give you the strength and peace in the weeks ahead to endure the pain. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.Arlana and Lee Clark"

"Jim and Connie,I am a member of Pleasantview Lutheran Church and although I did not know Andy , I wanted to express my sympathy to both of you. I am so sorry for your loss. "

"I have two lovely memories of Andy. Katie had invited myself and friends, Amanda and Georgie, over to her parents house for an evening of girl time and scary movies. We talked all the way through the scary movie and when it came time for dinner (chicken on the grill) none of us knew how to start the grill. Andy deftly handled the raw chicken and grilled it for us, sighing the whole time. I thought, "what a great brother". He would have rather been doing something else, but took the time to help out his sis and keep us entertained in the process. The other memory entails a game of cards (spades) that never happened. We were at Katie's house, waiting for some news and trying to find ways to pass the time. We were all set up and ready to play when we got our news and had to leave. I told him at the time that I wanted a re-match after all the trash-talking he did regarding his spades skills. Wish I had been a bit more persistent on that re-match. His intensity and passion for what ever he decided to do was so amazing to behold. I could just sit and listen to him talk for hours and I adored his really bad jokes. It helped me flex my groaning muscles. My heart breaks along with all of yours. He will always be in our hearts and never forgotten."

"Jim and ConnieCarol and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Katie and your extended family."

"I was unable to attend the services on the 19th but I heard the numbers of people that came were in the hundreds. I cannot say I'm surprised - to know a family like the Shellas (even in passing) is to know a warm heart and a kind soul. Your family is in my prayers and know that a community that has come to respect Jim Shella's integrity in the studio and on their television is now standing behind his entire family in support. "

"Having just gotten back into town I was deeply saddened to read the devastating news about Andy. Although I had rare contact with him, I felt like I knew Andy through my many conversations with you, Connie. It was obvious that he was a fine young man, and you were so very proud of him. If only there were words which offered comfort for the unthinkable. Please know that you are in our prayers. Part of our prayer is that eventually the wonderful memories of a son loved, admired, and respected by so many will replace some of the pain you feel now. God bless you....Jane and Steve"

"Dear Jim, Connie and Katie,We were so saddended to hear about Andy. Our heart goes out to you during this difficult time. Your entire famiy has worked so tirelessly to champion the cause of diabetes and push for more research and a cure. Thank you for your dedication, and know that many will continue your efforts. Andy will be remembered as a great kid who contributed so much ... I know that you are proud of him. You are in our thoughts and prayers."

"The Shella Family, My heart goes out to you at this time of loss and change. "

"I just wanted to say that Shella was one of the kindest most caring people I have ever met. I worked in the same cabin with him for an entire summer and there is no way I would be the kind of person I am with out his influence. I will miss him dearly. He was a very rare Good person, I hope somewhere he knows that."

"Andy you meant so much. May God keep you. "

"Jim and Connie,We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult times. "

"Jim and Connie, My deepest sympathies to you about your loss. Even though I did not know Andrew, I know he must have been a very special person. My thoughts are with you. "

"Dear Connie and Jim, David just called me -- that he just learned of your loss of Andy. Our family is so sorry to learn of Andy's sudden death. We would see him sometimes in the neighborhood. He always had a great outlook on life. We have many memories of Andy and David as good friends during preschool and elementary school, then playing rugby together. All those overnight visits when they were little. Please know our thoughts and prayers are uplifted for you all. Sincerely, Lisa Morris"

"Jim, Connie and Katie,It's been two weeks since Andy's passing and the shock has yet to wear off. We will miss "Shella" so very much. Andy will always remain in our hearts. "

"Jim and Connie--Words cannot express the loss you feel. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you in this time. Andrew sounds like an extremely fine young man who enjoyed life to the fullest and shared it with so many in a positive way. May you always have the fond memories of his time and his many accomplishments.Curt Earhart--high school friend of Jims."

"Connie,I was very saddened in hearing of the loss of Andy. I know you loved your children very much and I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with you at MH when Andy was first diagnosed. In reading all these tributes, Andy truly touched many lives. I'm so sorry--my deepest sympathies. "

"My heart aches for you and your family. I wish for you peace and grace. My thoughts and prayers are with you."

"Dear Shella Family,I was just advised of Andy's passing and I am sorry I did not know sooner. Please know you are all in my thoughts and wishing you peace and support.Sincerely,Annika"

"I only knew "Shella" through mutual friends, for the last five years every time I saw him he had a smile for me and always remembered my name. He had a good soul and I was sad to hear that he had passed. Its been 8 months and I'm still not used to it. I miss seeing him. I wish I would have been able to know him better. My sympathies to the family. Rest in Peace Shella.- George"

"Deepest thoughts, condolences and rememberances....."