Andrew Martin Slife, 53, of Colorado Springs died on February 28, 2024, while hospitalized. Andrew was born November 18, 1970, to Wayne Slife and Michele (Dubrule) Coppoc in Arkadelphia, AR. Shortly after Andrew’s birth, the family moved to Hot Springs, AR, where Andrew was raised. After graduating from Lakeside High School in 1988, Andrew enlisted in the US Navy where he served as an Electronics Technician. He was part of the commissioning crew of the USS MITSCHER (DDG 57) and was a crewmember for the ship’s first Mediterranean deployment. While on active duty, he earned his Bachelors of Science in Electronics Engineering and Psychology from the State University of New York. After an honorable discharge, Andrew began a career in Information Technology in the Washington, DC area which later brought him to Colorado Springs. He was known in the tech community for his innovative solutions, receiving numerous accolades for his work supporting Department of Defense clients. 

When not solving some complex technical issue, he was a beekeeper who gifted the honey from his hives to friends and family in plastic bears labeled “Bee Barf.” Other hobbies included woodworking, car restoration and gardening. 

Andrew was married first to Lisa (Veazey) Slife, who gave birth to their daughter, Leslie.  He later married Erin (Jeffords) Slife, who helped Andrew raise Leslie and bore their son, Luke, as well.  He was a creative father who spent time with his children building rockets, motorized bicycles, snow igloos, and other fun creations. He was an enthusiastic spectator of his daughter’s softball games. A Boy Scout in his youth, Andrew shared in his son’s scouting campouts and activities. Andrew will be remembered by those who knew and loved him for his unique sense of humor, intelligence, and generosity.

Andrew is survived by Leslie of Hot Springs, AR and Luke of Colorado Springs, CO; his brother Jim (Gwendolyn) of Washington, DC; his nieces Sarah and Rebecca; and his nephews John and Paul. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

The family will plan a remembrance for a later date, but invite his family, friends, and colleagues to share stories, photographs, and memories of Andrew by sending them to AndrewSlifeMemories@gmail.com.