Avon Obituary: Andrew Milligan, 19

Andrew “Drew” MacNeill Milligan, 19, of Avon, died on Dec. 22, 2017. Drew was born on Aug. 7, 1998 in Hartford, the son of Mark and Annette (Raffino) Milligan of Avon.

Drew is survived by his loving parents, Mark and Annette, his big brother, Calum, and his little sister, Molly. They adored and cherished Drew so very much. The void of Drew’s legendary hugs and humor are intensely missed by his family. Drew leaves behind his maternal grandparents, Fred and Janette Raffino of Windsor. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Andrew and Maryjane Milligan of West Hartford. He is survived by his step-grandmother Madeline Ann Milligan, also of West Hartford. They all adored Drew and showered him with affection, encouragement and support. Drew is also survived by 10 loving aunts, uncles and 20 cousins. Several other family friends grew very close to Drew and provided him with friendship and guidance.

Drew recently graduated from Avon High School in 2016, where he was a member of the crew rowing team with his brother, Calum. Drew was enrolled in classes towards a future career in law enforcement. Drew had entrepreneurial aspirations and established a home-based manufacturing business/hobby. The absence of the sight and sound of Drew meticulously honing his craftsmanship at his worktable is painfully deafening.

Drew also had a deep passion for music recording, cars and nature/animals. He successfully pursued with dedication and sweat his interest in bodybuilding and nutrition, achieving 1st place in his inaugural CT regional bodybuilding competition in 2016.

Drew loved to explore the woods surrounding his Avon home and relished in the frequent wildlife sightings, including an often-returning bear who periodically visited Drew’s back patio. His favorite family exploration hikes were to Talcott Mountain, Simsbury, Ogunquit, ME, and to the snowy mountains of VT. Drew loved the cold weather and had the heart, spirit and adventure of a true mountain man. Drew was loved by all 2 and 4-legged creatures alike who were blessed to have experienced his kindness, especially his beloved pups, Bandit and Mojo.

Drew’s parents have established the Dear Drew Milligan Foundation in their son’s name. This Foundation will be a living legacy to raise funds towards scholarships and encouragement for aspiring music recording artists/students.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to the Dear Drew Milligan Foundation. Thoughtful donations can be mailed to Dear Drew Milligan Foundation, c/o Mark Milligan, 20 Meadowbrook Lane, Avon, CT 06001. Drew’s family intends to hold an annual event to sustain this memorial initiative and provide ongoing support for Drew’s passionate causes.

Drew, your parents, siblings, family and friends miss you more than mere printed words could ever express. We promise to summon smiles, laughter and sweet memories of our all-to-brief precious 19 years with you. We will carry you in our hearts every day and always, XO.

A private celebration of Drew’s life event will be held February 11th, 2018 with details to follow.