Andy Werhane Obituary-Death News; Andy Werhane, Golf Coach at Belvidere High School Passed Away
The Belvidere School District community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of longtime educator and leader, Andy Werhane, who passed away over the weekend.
A dedicated staff member since 2007, Werhane served in a variety of roles throughout his career — from teacher and technology coach to golf coach at Belvidere High School most recently impacting students’ lives as the assistant principal at Washington Academy.
Superintendent Dr. Cassandra Schug expressed the profound sadness that has engulfed the district. “He is known by so many people in our community, both in his role as an educator and as a member of the community itself,” she said. “He is definitely deeply missed.”
Werhane’s sudden passing prompted the district to mobilize support systems for students and staff. Extra counseling services have been made available to help them cope with the grief.
“We reached out to our staff and families before school resumed on Monday,” Schug said. “Today, we had the opportunity to discuss this loss openly with both staff and students so we can begin to process our grief together.”
The halls of Washington Academy felt notably emptier as students and staff returned to school without Werhane’s familiar, positive presence. “It was really challenging to come to school today and not have him there,” Schug shared. “He was a person full of life, energy, and a genuine love for what he did.”
Students entered school visibly upset, seeking comfort from teachers and peers alike. “There were a lot of hugs and a lot of tears,” Schug added. “Students came in sad, wanting comfort.”
Werhane’s passing has left a significant void that will be difficult to fill. “We knew his loss would be incredibly difficult for so many — students, staff, and families alike,” said Schug. “Mr. Werhane’s impact on our district is truly without measure.”
For more than 15 years, Werhane poured his heart into helping students grow academically and personally. “He has been absolutely a role model for our students,” Schug said. “There is not a student or staff member he wouldn’t reach out to and care for.”
As the Belvidere School District grapples with this loss, Schug emphasized the importance of leaning on one another. “When you lose anyone a colleague, student, or staff member it shakes the family that we have built here. Andy was a vibrant part of District 100, and he will always be remembered for the joy, passion, and kindness he shared so freely.”
Plans to honor Werhane’s legacy are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, as the community continues to celebrate a life that touched so many.
