Robert John Andrews

The memory of a righteous man is a blessing.
Proverbs 10:7

Obituary

Robert John Andrews, 45, of Fallbrook, California, passed away peacefully in his home after a courageous two‑year battle with an aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma. Born and raised in Oceanside, Robert lived his life with a spirit that was funny, spontaneous, courageous, outgoing, and endlessly hardworking. He brought energy and joy wherever he went, and he faced every challenge with the same determination and heart that defined him.

Robert had a rare gift for connection — no one was ever a stranger to him, just a friend he hadn’t met yet. He chatted with everyone, knew every neighbor, and was on a first‑name basis with nearly everyone at the gym. His openness made people feel seen, welcomed, and instantly comfortable.

He was known for his wisdom and his ability to mentor others, especially men seeking guidance in marriage, relationships, discipline, and personal growth. Robert had a way of speaking truth with kindness, offering encouragement that was both practical and deeply heartfelt. His passion for helping others grow closer to God was woven into everything he did. His love for Jesus shaped his life, and he poured that love into every community he was part of.

Robert had a deep love for his faith, his family, fitness, music, restoring old cars, snowboarding, and the thrill of buying and selling treasures at the Pomona Swap Meet. He found joy in the things he loved and shared that joy generously. Whether he was tinkering with a classic car, discovering a new song, or carving down a mountain, he embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Professionally, Robert was the Global Director of Flow Cytometry, a field dedicated to individualized cancer treatment and diagnostics. Over 16 years, he worked his way from the bottom to become a respected leader, speaking at conferences and guiding others with kindness and fairness. His dedication to learning was unmatched — he was known for reading textbooks at the beach or by the pool, always striving to deepen his knowledge and contribute to a field that mattered deeply to him.

Robert is survived by his wife of 18 years, Lacey Andrews, and their four children: Makenna (13), Aila (10), Roland (8), and Benjamin (5). He also leaves behind his parents, Scott and Carol Andrews; his sister and brother‑in‑law, Jenny and Jaxon Bilbrey; his mother-in-law, Claudia Kaapke, brother‑in‑law and sister‑in‑law, David and Siobhan Martinell, nieces and nephews, Peyton and Nixon Bilbrey, Olive and Sage Martinell and a wide circle of “framily” — friends who became family and loved him dearly. He passed surrounded by his wife, mom, and dad, held in the love that shaped his life.

Robert’s legacy is one of inspiring others to become who God created them to be — to grow with purpose, to serve selflessly, and to live a life they could look back on without regret. He will be remembered for his laughter, his spontaneity, his fierce love for his family, his deep love for Jesus, and the countless ways he made life brighter for everyone around him.

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August 5, 2026

Rob was a leader of his family and a leader of men. He set the example of what a man is spiritually and emotionally. He will truly be missed and we are praying for you all during this difficult time.

With love, Brad and Rochelle

Brad Corbett & Ro Sanchez

August 2, 2026

Being able to share part of my life with you has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Watching you grow professionally, build such a beautiful family, and hearing you talk about how deeply you loved Lacey, how much joy you found in your kids, and how incredibly proud you were of them is exactly how I will always remember you.

You touched my life with your selflessness, your kindness, and your friendship. Because of you, I am a better person, and I will always be grateful. You will never be forgotten.

Karina baggiani

July 30, 2026

I was lucky to witness Lacey and Robert's love story from the beginning. They both showed me a sweet example of love and dedication to one another. I could tell from early on that they were going to get married and I was lucky again to see them get married by the sea. What a beautiful legacy they have showed everyone throughout the years what real love looks like-the sacrificial love that Jesus has showed us to serve others. Thank you for showing this example to us, I will always remember your heart and love for others and each other.

Julia Vasquez

July 29, 2026

Friday, July 3, 2026
I received a wonderful gift from the Amazon delivery guy last Friday.
I was awake and out in the front yard at 7:30 talking to the men who were there to trim several of the trees on my property. Both driveways were filled with trucks and men, which is why the delivery guy did not see the number on the mailbox; he had to park on the street.
I was standing on the front porch when I saw him jogging up through the tree trimmers, holding a medium-sized box. Since we moved to Fallbrook, we order a lot from Amazon, so I took this as a standard delivery.
Turns out, it was anything but.
When I opened it, I had a chuckle – it was a pair of children’s roller skates. I read the address label then and realized that it was for one of the Andrews kids, who live up the driveway.
I walked up the drive, intending to drop the box by the front door, and was surprised to see Robert standing in front of the open door. He told me that he was waiting for their financial advisor. We hugged and said “I love you” simultaneously. He invited me in to wait with him; we sat at the dining room table, and I could hear Lacey and the children in the back part of the house. The dining room was quiet, and we were able to share a wonderful 20 minutes together. Robert put his head down on the table and I asked his permission to touch him – to stroke his back and neck. We sat like that for a long time, talking about our next visit, when we meet in heaven.
Robert died on Wednesday.
I’m overjoyed that the Amazon guy delivered those skates to the wrong house.

Charlotte Seidman

July 29, 2026

Rob was my mentor and the main reason for my successful career as lead flow cytometrist at Dell Children's hospital in Austin, TX.
In 2015 my company decided to bring flow in-house. At the time Genoptix was our clinical oncology laboratory and I was sent to Carlsbad to learn the tricks of trade. That is when I met Rob. He told me about how he had moved up in the company starting out in customer service until he was credentialed to work in the laboratory. After that he soared to the top and traveled to open flow labs all over the US.
He was one of the most pragmatic teachers I have ever had, and so patient. The way he explained theory and applications made sense. He gave me the confidence in myself that I could learn the very challenging concepts of flow. He came to Austin and aided me in getting my lab up and running. It took months overall, but he never faltered to come to my rescue when I needed him. Over the years we remained in contact, especially when I would get in a bind with something technical. He was so smart and I will miss him.
Lacey, we've never met but when Rob spoke of you and your children, you could hear and see that he considered himself the luckiest man on earth. I wish I could come to his celebration to meet all of you, but you will be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you and comfort you.

Tammy Munoz

July 28, 2026

I didn't know Robert for very long, but it was a friendship that I will always remember. He came up to me at the gym and said, "Hey, I think you live across the street from my parents." That was all it took and we were off on nearly a one-hour conversation. He openly shared his diagnosis, his steadfast faith in Jesus...and his many woes with his truck. We prayed together right in the middle of the gym on that first day. It was a sweet time of brotherhood and faith in Christ...as complete strangers in the midst of people working out, but I think we both felt like we'd known each other for years. His faith in view of what he was up against was an encouragement to me. He never gave up. He was at the gym religiously working out after taking his kids to school and always had a full weekend planned with baseball practice and hopes of turning a wrench or two. He was never concerned about himself, only his family. Throughout the last year we talked and prayed about various treatments and about entrusting his family to God while enjoying every day as a gift. I look forward to seeing my brother again one day in the presence of Christ. I know he's fully healed and happier than he's ever been. Lacey, I've never met you and I can't imagine how difficult this is for you and for your four children. We're right across the street from his parents, if we can ever be of help with anything please let us know. Unfortunately, we will be out of town during the celebration of life or we'd be there to meet you and support you. God Bless you and your family.
Chris and Cindy Schaffer 858-220-5965

Chris Schaffer

July 28, 2026

Some friendships are measured by time, but I’m so thankful ours was measured by loyalty, laughter, and many countless memories.

One of the things I’ll always admire most about Robert was his unwavering faith in Jesus. Robert lived his beliefs with humility, kindness, and love, and his faith touched more people than he probably ever realized. It was part of who he is, and it showed in the way he treated everyone around him.

Robert also had a gift for making people laugh. No matter what was going on, he could lighten the mood with his sense of humor and leave everyone smiling. And if someone was lucky enough to call him a friend, they knew they had someone fiercely loyal who would always have their back.

Although my heart is heavy, I’m thankful for the years of friendship we shared and the memories that will always stay with me. While it’s hard to say goodbye, I find comfort knowing that his faith is now reality, and he is in the presence of the Savior he loved so deeply.

Rest easy, my friend. Thank you for your friendship, your laughter, your loyalty, and the example of faith you left behind. You’ll never be forgotten, and I’ll carry your memory with me always. Until we meet again.

David Williams

July 26, 2026

I’ve known Robert since the early 1980s. He was an outstanding friend to my sons, Scott and Steve, and a true companion on many of our adventures. He joined us for 50-mile bike rides in Mexico, skiing trips to Mammoth and Big Bear, and countless other outings over the years.

He and I also shared many conversations about the gospel and its meaning. Robert’s positive spirit was something you felt immediately—it was steady, genuine, and hard to match.

I’ve attached some photos from our times together, including a few he sent me on his own.

Matt Obermayer

July 25, 2026

Rest in peace & joy!

Erich Hagen

July 22, 2026

I met Robert a few years ago and we quickly jelled together: I had just moved in across the street and we swapped stories of how the Marines have become just another part of the armed forces. LOL. I was thinking, don’t go there young man. I’m not in the mood! 🤣🤣. lol With me being a 27 year Marine vet and him spending quit a bit of time on the base with his father( he had the right to give me sh%#) at the workshop, it was easy to BS. I walk my dogs 4-5 times a week and every single time that he drove by, he would either honk, wave or yell. It didn’t mean a lot then, we just throw up the hey hand and keep on. 🖐️ That hand means a lot more today: RIP Mr. Robert and may the Marines look over you! Semper Fi my friend!

Terry Harrelson

July 22, 2026

We will see Robert on the other side not too far away. Take courage Lace and children just as he did. He exhibited great courage!

Manuel L Ávila

July 21, 2026

You impacted all of us so much! I know that you’ll always be looking down on all of us. You’re pain-free now, my friend. ❤️

Skylar Ireton

July 20, 2026

IVS Day at Petco Park 2023

Kathleen Demarest

July 16, 2026

Just came to know the sad news about passing away of Rob Andrews. It was a great privilege for me to have known Rob for more than 15 years as we worked together at various flow cytometry labs. He was a great human being, kind, generous with brilliant mind and person of many talents. It is great loss for his family, friends, and professional community. May his soul rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with Lacey, their children, his parents and extended family. May god give them a strength to bear this loss. 🙏

Swati Shah

July 14, 2026

Robert was such a rad dude, and he will be greatly missed. I went through some old photos and found these from 2002/2003 from when we all hung out with the North Coast college group.

Nathan Firth

July 13, 2026

Genoptix 2014 Halloween

Carl Reed

July 12, 2026

I am so honored and deeply blessed to have known Robert in my life. Through his generous spirit and kind presence I’ll always hold those memories close. You will always be remembered, my friend. Till we meet again.

Jason Kwok

July 10, 2026

I only knew you for a year in Carlsbad while I lived there, but you and Lacey were my favorite neighbors! My twin Grandaughters loved McKenna and we were invited to her birthday party which we loved being a part of. I do remember how Robert was so kind and helpful. He gave me advice on seeking a job and even tried to get me into his company. I will never forget his friendship and thoughtfulness in helping me! He will be missed always! I pray for Lacey and the children and family that go on without him! May his memory burn in their hearts and minds and may Jesus wrap His arms around all of them! Until we meet again, RIP Robert. ❤️😢😘

Anne Maria Viola

July 9, 2026

Forever grateful for the time we had together twin. Countless memories were made and they will forever be shared. I loved experiencing life with you and seeing who you were to so many people. The impact you have made is extraordinary. You built the life you dreamed of through hard work and determination. It wasn’t always easy but you never gave up. See you later bro. Until then, I’ll be replaying all the silly accents and songs you have left me over voicemail xoxox

Jenny Bilbrey

July 9, 2026

Chad and I will forever remember our dinner at the Quiram’s house after we had finished classes with you both. We were told to bring our wedding photo and to talk about this special day. Chad and I had never laughed so hard at a dinner. Rob was telling the candid story of your special day and per Rob’s story telling, the table was all enthralled. We, having lived our own crazy time in the world new at this moment we had met people that knew exactly what it’s like to be saved from the world. He did it unabashedly and with such flare that our sides literally ached with laughter while tears streamed down our faces. It was at this very moment that we felt not alone in our journey of faith and love of our God. We still feel this love for you both.

Tania Emery

Family tree

Scott Andrews

Carol Andrews

Lacey Andrews

Jenny Bilbrey

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Jenny Bilbrey

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Lacey Andrews

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Robert Andrews

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