The Minnesota sports community is mourning the loss of Andy Trowbridge, a sports producer who worked for KARE 11 for 15 years. Trowbridge passed away on January 29, 2023, following a brief illness. His cause of death has not been disclosed yet, but some sources suggest that he died of cancer. Trowbridge was only 35 years old at the time of his death.
A Passionate and Dedicated Sports Journalist
Trowbridge was born in Anoka, Minnesota, and graduated from Anoka High School in 2004. He then pursued his degree in journalism from the University of Minnesota, where he developed his interest and skills in sports reporting. He joined KARE 11 as a sports intern right after college and never left. He worked his way up to become a sports producer for weekend and weeknight sportscasts, as well as Vikings Extra. He also covered various sports events such as the Olympics, the Super Bowl, the Final Four, and the World Series.
Trowbridge was known for his enthusiasm, professionalism, and humor. He had a passion for sports that was evident in his work and his personal life. He was an avid fan of the Minnesota Twins, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Minnesota Wild. He also enjoyed playing golf, softball, and hockey with his friends and co-workers. He had a great sense of humor that could lighten up any situation and make everyone laugh.
Trowbridge was also a caring and generous person who loved to help others. He volunteered at local charities such as Feed My Starving Children, where he packed meals for hungry children around the world. He also donated his own money and resources to support various causes and campaigns. He was especially involved in the Randy Shaver Cancer Research & Community Fund, a charity that funds cancer research and patient aid programs in Minnesota.
Tributes Pour In for Andy Trowbridge
Trowbridge’s death has left a huge impact on his family, friends, colleagues, and viewers. Many have expressed their grief and condolences on social media and other platforms. Some of the tributes include:
- Randy Shaver, KARE 11 sports director and anchor: “Andy worked his way to become our sports producer, a job he loved with all his heart. Cool, calm, focused, but would always sneak in that sly grin, even when there was chaos all around him. He relished that role. There wasn’t a job too big or too small. He would get it done, and done right. Andy was sweet, kind, thoughtful, funny, the kind of person that could be your life-long friend.”
- Dave Schwartz, KARE 11 sports anchor: “Andy was one of those guys who made everyone around him better. He was always positive, always had a smile on his face, always had a joke ready to go. He was a great producer, a great co-worker, and a great friend.”
- Eric Perkins, former KARE 11 sports anchor: “Andy Trowbridge was one of my favorite people in this business. He was smart, funny, talented, loyal, hard-working, and just an all-around good dude. I’m heartbroken for his family and friends.”
- Tom Pelissero, NFL Network reporter: “Andy Trowbridge was one of the first people I met when I moved to Minneapolis in 2007. He was always upbeat, always helpful, always fun to be around. A true pro and a great guy.”
- Lindsay Whalen, Minnesota Lynx head coach: “Andy Trowbridge was a joy to work with at KARE 11. He always had a smile on his face and made everyone feel welcome. He was passionate about sports and storytelling. He will be missed by many.”
In lieu of flowers, Trowbridge’s family has requested that donations be made to the Randy Shaver Cancer Research & Community Fund in his memory.