Andrew J. Chicos

Andrew John Chicos, 61, of New Richland, MN, passed away on Thursday, April 3rd, leaving behind a lifetime of memories filled with laughter, hard work, and the simple joys of country living.

Born on May 26, 1963, in Wells, MN, Andy was the tenth of thirteen children born to Ann (Stiles) and Charles Chicos. He spent his entire life on the family farm; a place that was not just his home but his heart. He graduated from Freeborn High School in 1982; where he showed artistic talent, earning recognition for his drawings with a “One Man Art Show” in the 7th grade.

Andy had a deep love for the outdoors and the traditions that came with it—fishing, snowmobiling, bowling, county fairs, deer hunting, and playing cards at the Matawan School House. He cherished the fishing trips up north with his brothers, uncles, and cousins, where stories and laughter flowed as freely as the water. Andy was a gifted storyteller, always ready with a tale that could bring a smile to anyone’s face.

A hardworking man, Andy farmed the family land; enjoyed raising pigs, farrow to finish; in the spring, he would sit in the chicken coop, watching the baby chicks; drove truck for his dad during the pea and sweet corn pack - always willing to hold an unofficial "clinic" for the younger drivers who had yet to master the fine art of the road; helped his neighbors; and worked as a Field Sampler for Birdseye. He found pride and purpose in his work, valuing the land and the community he was a part of.

Andy is survived by his siblings: Jim (Renee) Chicos, Steven (Randi) Chicos, Jane (Shahriar) Beyzavi, Tim (Shelly) Chicos, Mark (Jacqueline) Chicos, Liz Chicos, Larry Chicos, Deb Chicos, and Becky Chicos; as well as his brother-in-law, Bill Freytag, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ann and Charles Chicos; siblings Susan Freytag, Mary Dormady, and Joe Chicos; as well as his brother-in-law, Dennis Dormady, and nephews, Anthony and Edwin Chicos.

A visitation will be held at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Friedrich’s Funeral Home in New Richland, MN, followed by a prayer service to honor Andy’s life.

Andy’s stories, laughter, and love for his family will be dearly missed but forever remembered.