Andrew Dayton

Andrew LeMay Dayton passed away unexpectedly in his home in Missoula, Montana on Januray 11^th, 2024. Andrew had been dealing with health issues in the past year and seemed to be improving over the past few months. Sadly he was unable to overcome these health challenges.

Andrew was born in Cortland, New York on 11/21/1965 to Carl and Frankie Dayton. His family moved to Montana in 1974 . In spring of 1975 the family started to build their home in Clinton, MT where he was raised. He graduated in 1984 from Hellgate High School in Missoula, Montana where he discovered a love for photography. He enlisted in the Navy. When he returned to Montana, he began his retail career at Shopko. At Shopko, he met is best friend, Shawna Hampeys. Although the two were married in 1997, they both decided they were better suited to be life-long friends. Andrew worked at a variety of retail stores, but his favorite place was Staples where he found strong camaraderie and respect.

Andrew was an accomplished photographer, who had a talent as a nature whisperer. Whether it be of birds, bees, butterflies, buffalo or bears they all seemed to welcome his gaze and linger in his view, while striking poses for his camera. Through photography Andrew was able to create meaningful friendships that lasted over the years.

Andrew was a seasoned traveler with adventures to Ireland, England and almost all of the United States. He especially loved Florida. He was avid collector of M&M memorabilia. He loved to read in his self-made, toasty, warm sunroom while he lived at his home on Defoe street. To say Andrew loved chocolate was an understatement. He had a near connoisseur level for chocolate. He couldn’t go a day without some having a piece of chocolate.

Andrew’s faith in his Lord and Savior was his guiding force through out his life. His favorite song was Amazing Grace for many reasons. One of those reasons was he could attempt to play it on a piano. Andrew was grateful for finding his church family while attending the Church of God in Missoula, Montana for over 27 years.

There was a serene joy in resting in Andrew’s presence. With nothing said or done, you knew you were safe, cared for, and even adored simply for being in the world. Andrew was a very unique and important person to many of those that knew and loved him. He will not only be missed, but that there will be a hollow void without him in our lives. Andrew is to remember the purist of sunshine, eternal friendship and a role model of kindness without end.

Andrew was preceded in death by his parents Frankie and Carl Dayton. Andrew is survived by his siblings: Darryl (Kristie) Dayton; Claudette (Jeffrey) Gerdjunis; and Rebecca Dayton; along with 3 nephews: Tyler (Christina) Dayton; Jeffrey and Benjamin Gerdjunis; and one niece, Hailey (Dayton) Bass; two great nephews and one great niece as well as many loyal and treasured friends.