James Andrew Earl

Andy was at ease with the world. He lived at peace with who he was and being comfortable with himself allowed him the freedom to connect with many people. His spiritual strength and engaging personality made a positive and lasting impression on many lives.

During the 1960's, John R. and Shirley (Longnecker) Earl of Carmel, Indiana were very focused on their growing family. They were busy preparing for their second son, James Andrew, who arrived on September 25, 1962.

As baby James grew older, he became known as Andy. Even as a child, he had a great sense of humor. He liked to joke with his older brother, torturing him day and night with his relentless teasing.

Andy also liked to spend time with his father, participating in a variety of activities, including Indian Guides. And although he loved being outside, he was not much of a sports fan. Scouting was more to his liking, as was Star Trek and anything else that had to do with science fiction.

By the time Andy began Carmel High School, he had developed a liking for Latin as well. He studied the language intensely and became a Latin scholar. Andy graduated high school in 1981. He then decided to move out of his parents’ home and continue his studies at Ball State University.

Although he was a very good student, Andy did not particularly care for the structure of school. It was sometimes difficult for him, yet he always had a passion for learning, especially about the psychology of the human mind.

While pursuing his degree in psychology, Andy was introduced to a woman named Cathy Malbin by a mutual friend. From the moment they met, Andy and Cathy were inseparable.

Andy graduated from Ball State in 1985, and he and Cathy continued their strong friendship. They eventually became business partners a few years ago, creating MacDesign, which specializes in screen printing. As if managing this business was not hard enough, Andy also worked every Sunday at a bookstore called New Age People. There, he served as a professional psychic. He became a trusted spiritual counselor to many people over the next 15 years.

In addition to being a businessman and spiritual counselor, Andy was a definite animal lover. His beloved cats, Omar and Cosmo, where like his own children. Their deaths devastated Andy. His dog Zoe and a new cat, Murray, helped him through this difficult time.

Cathy’s daughter, Taylor Brosseau, also shared Andy’s love for animals. She and Andy were became very close friends. They spent a lot of time together and went out to lunch often. They also love to go to antique shops or catch the latest movie at the local theater.

Although Andy had many important people in his life, he also enjoyed having time to himself. He never felt awkward being on his own. He liked to listen to music, whether it was spiritual, new age, or alternative. He also liked to just sit and watch a good show on TV, especially when he could do this and enjoy a sugary treat at the same time.

One of the greatest days in Andy’s life was when his niece, Sara, was born. To Andy, she was just like a daughter. He nicknamed her “Larry” and “Scruples,” two names that Andy got a kick out of. He looked forward to being able to watch Sara grow into young lady. Andy was an amazing person who touched many people’s lives. Whether as a counselor or as a friend, he treated everyone with respect and sincerity. His kind and energetic presence will always be remembered.

James Andrew Earl died suddenly as a result of a car accident on Saturday, September 4, 2004. In addition to his mother, survivors include his brother, Christopher B. Earl; niece, Sara E. Earl; aunt, Judith Chroniak; uncle, Dr. M.F. Longnecker; special friends, Cathy Malbin and Dr. Gerald Maesaka.

Friends may greet the family on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. in Leppert Life Story Funeral Home™ - Carmel. Funeral services will be held following the visitation, beginning at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a favorite charity. You are invited to visit www.lifestorynet.com, where you may share a personal memory.