Andy Werhane Belvidere, IL, Obituary, Death: The Belvidere School District is grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of longtime educator, colleague, and community member, Andy Werhane, who passed away over the weekend. Werhane, a dedicated and deeply respected figure in the district, leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and compassion that touched the lives of countless students and staff members alike.
Andy Werhane began his career with the Belvidere School District in 2007 and quickly became a trusted and beloved member of the school community. Over the years, he served in several impactful roles, including teacher, technology coach, and golf coach at Belvidere High School. Most recently, he was serving as the assistant principal at Washington Academy, where his influence and leadership were deeply felt on a daily basis.
Following the news of his passing, the district immediately began to offer emotional support to students, staff, and families. Extra counseling resources were made available, and Superintendent Dr. Cassandra Schug addressed the school community with empathy and appreciation for Werhane’s immense contributions.
“He is known by so many people in our community both in his role as an educator and as a part of our community itself, so he is definitely deeply missed,” Dr. Schug stated. She also emphasized the emotional weight felt by all when returning to school on Monday without his familiar presence. “I think it was really challenging today to come to school, and especially at Washington Academy, to not have him be there. He is, again, a person who is just full of life.”
The outpouring of emotion from both students and staff highlighted just how much Werhane meant to the Belvidere community. Students arrived at school seeking comfort, expressing their grief through hugs, tears, and memories. Teachers and administrators also felt the profound absence of someone they had come to rely on as both a professional and a friend.
“We knew that his passing was going to be really difficult for so many of our students, so many of our staff, and so many of our family members,” Schug said. “Mr. Werhane’s impact on our students and our families truly is without measure.”
More than just an administrator, Werhane was a role model, mentor, and compassionate presence in the lives of those around him. He was known for his unwavering support, willingness to lend a hand or ear, and for building meaningful relationships across the school community.
“There is not a student or a staff member that he wouldn’t reach out to and care for,” Schug added. “He has been absolutely a role model for our students.”
While the district and wider community continue to process this tremendous loss, they are doing so together—leaning on one another, sharing stories, and honoring the legacy Werhane leaves behind.
“He was a vibrant part of our District 100 family and our community,” Schug said. “And he always will be.”
Funeral and obituary details have not yet been announced. Additional information will be shared with the community as it becomes available.