Andy Alonzo

Native Key West Conch Andy Alonzo completed his journey on earth Thursday, Aug. 16, 2012, just days shy of his 88th birthday.

Alonzo was proud to be a veteran of World War II, where he served his country in the Navy as a Marine medic, covering the Pacific. Upon completing his tour of duty, Andy returned to Key West and married his longtime love, Conchita Varela. His gregarious personality made him a successful wine and beer salesman throughout the Florida Keys; but it was his work as a deputy sheriff for Monroe County that gave him the most joy.

Andy was an avid sports fan and had a passion for baseball, tennis and his Miami Dolphins. At the age of 78, he turned his tennis racket in for a golf club and retired to The Villages in Central Florida, continuing his life as doting father and grandfather.

Andy was preceded in death by his daughter Terry and son-in-law Danny Blystone. His survivors include his wife of 64 years, Conchita; daughter Cathy, and son-in-law Ronnie Felton, daughter Andrea, and partner Kevin Gardner; granddaughter, Brooke Blystone-McGough and husband Lawrence McGough; Danner Blystone and fiance Steven Foster; family member Kyle Colby; and younger brother Joe Alonzo.

The family thanks you for your kind thoughts and prayers in lieu of flowers. Andy Alonzo will be inurned at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Fla., at a later date.