We discovered Andy's 'StarRunn' stream several years back and we were immediately hooked.
All pop culture with much of the content being older licenses and products, which suited old folk like us just fine.
There was the variety as well. Figures, models, advertising, art... each click brought more pop joy into view.
Digging deeper we found more peculiarities that really hooked us. Andy demonstrated an incredible level of detail on all elements, from information about the subject matter to when and where he purchased it, and even how much he paid for it. Whether it was a flea market or an estate sale, he knew it.
Then... we saw his "About" page. Andy had spent his career in model building with Aurora and comic books with Marvel. So, quite obviously, we did the only logical thing. We began pestering him incessantly. What else would one do?
As it turned out, Andy was quite patient with our constant fan questions. In fact, he would answer in grand detail, providing all sorts of back stories to the characters, the licenses, the products, and the industry.
We hungrily devoured all of Andy's stories, wit, and wisdom. He was a thoroughly engaging gentleman to know. Andy was old enough that it was easy to spot which "ways he was set in" and he would freely ignore our questions that he didn't think warranted a conversation, and go into uproariously fun stories in answering the questions he liked.
Andy was quite kind to us in return. He complimented our photographic efforts and, coming from him, each time he did so was very much appreciated.
We corresponded a good bit outside of Flickr and we learned much about Andy's life, his historic home, and more.
Earlier this year Andy surprised us with the most amazing gift, a box of toys, art, and memorabilia that he selected. You'll see these noted on our stream as being from his collection as we post them.
Andy created the character of "John Neverjohnnie", the wealthy owner of the Hot Wheels cars.
We were grieved to hear from his family that Andy Yanchus passed on 9/11 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Andy fought vigorously and, rather than giving in, he continued to speak of ongoing and future projects right up to the end.
God truly blessed us in meeting and gaining a friend like Andy Yanchus. Our prayers are with his family for the comfort and peace of the Lord Jesus Christ.
We miss him dearly but cherish the time we were allowed to share with him.
Visit his stream and enjoy.
www.flickr.com/photos/159696410@N03/
