Roy J. "Bud" Van Sickle, Jr.

Age 77 of Andover, died December 7, 2020.   Survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Joanne (née Waage); sons, Gary (Noelle), Greg; grandchildren, Grace and Valerie; sister, Cora Thrun (Lloyd).   Preceded in death by his parents, Roy Sr. and Lucille (née Bona); sister, Margaret; and infant son, John.​He grew up in New Brighton and graduated from Mounds View High School in 1961.  He was proud of his six years of service in the Army Reserves.  He started his career as a butcher at Red Owl, and after gaining his Grade-C Chief Engineer’s License, he worked at a variety of companies maintaining their buildings and equipment.  He later started his own business as a handyman.  He loved his work and his clients, and told stories every night about them.​He loved spending time at the cabin near Grantsburg, Wisconsin.  He loved fishing (always wanting to take just one more lap around the lake), swimming (diving in at full speed), gardening, visiting with neighbors, bonfires, and enjoying the fresh air and sights and sounds of nature. ​He was comfortable with who he was, had a big heart, and loved engaging with people.  He was the life of the party, had a great sense of humor, and was always in a good mood.  He was an avid fan of 50’s music, including Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Big Bopper, and many others.  He was a fan of James Bond movies, and one of his favorite TV shows was NYPD Blue.  He always had a beer at the ready, especially his favorite – Carling’s Black Label.  He enjoyed Prime Rib, and smothered everything in Ketchup. ​He will be deeply missed.  A private service and interment were held.  A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 17, 2021 from 1:00 - 4:00 PM at Moe's American Grill, 2400 County Highway 10 in Mounds View.