Andrew Buchan Currie, 97

Andrew "Andy" Buchan Currie, 97, passed away peacefully in his Bonners Ferry, Idaho, home on February 28, 2025, surrounded by his wife and loving family.

Born in 1927 in Peebles, Scotland, to Ronald and Christine Currie, Andy grew up with his older sister Annie, younger brother Ronald, and sister Irene. As young as 10, Andy worked odd jobs earning money for his family before beginning his bricklayer apprenticeship at age 16.

Andy served in the Scottish Home Guard for a year, helping protect his country from invasion during World War II. One of his favorite pastimes was salmon fishing the Tweed River; some of his catch was even shipped to his Uncle Ford in London in exchange for English five-pound notes.

In 1952, Andy voyaged across the Atlantic with his pals Eskie Bogle and Burt Murray to Canada. There, he started a small family with his first wife Elizabeth (Betty) in Edmonton. He made his way to the United States and established residence in 1956, driving through Bonners Ferry with his oldest son Ian in tow, not realizing that this would one day be his future home. 

Andy later met his second wife, Leah Moore, in Spokane, Washington, where he won her over with his impressive dance skills.

Andy's masonry took him throughout North Idaho, Washington state, Montana and Chicago before he founded Currie Masonry. There, he taught his sons both the trade and the importance of a strong work ethic. The family's timeless brick and stonework can be seen in hundreds of structures across the region, including Bonners Ferry's Pace Kerby building, the Trinity Lutheran Church window, visitors center, and Sandpoint's Condo del Sol, Vanderfords, Connie's Lounge, and Horizon Credit Union. Throughout Idaho's panhandle, Andy's artistry lives on in countless buildings— each bearing his distinctive touch.

His sons and grandsons cherish fond memories of fishing with Andy in numerous local lakes and his favorite — the Moyie River, which reminded him of his beloved Old Country.

Continuing the adventure, in their later years, Andy and Leah traveled in their fifth wheel to see the Pacific Northwest and Midwest.

Andy charmed people with his Scottish accent and his use of “love,” “lass,”  and “laddie.” He probably couldn't go anywhere in town without being recognized. He gave his family a great host of stories and a deep love of the outdoors. He was also a devoted Manchester United fan.

Andy was preceded in death by his son Stuart. He is survived by his wife, Leah; sons, Ian, Drew, Chris and Neil; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.

Andy will be remembered for both his skilled craftsmanship and the love he shared with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.