In Loving Memory of Robin Lyn Andrews
November 25, 1965 – April 7, 2025

Robin Lyn Andrews was a fierce, compassionate, and vibrant Lakota woman. She passed away peacefully at 7:50 p.m. on April 7, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Memorial Hospital in Eureka. She was surrounded by her loving family who stood by her to the end. This reflects the love she gave so freely throughout her life.

Robin was born in Winner, South Dakota on November 25, 1965, to her parents Patricia and Bernard Andrews. Her early teenage years were filled with disco, funk music and weekends spent at the local roller rink, where she danced her way through life with joy and style regardless of what was going on in life. Her favorite movies were Grease and she was in love with Elvis. At 16, she joined Job Corp in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she met her first husband, Ignacio. They were married for 13 years and had two beautiful children together, Sanau and Luke.

Robin loved to tell stories. One of her favorite stories to tell was about meeting her second husband, Tom. After moving to Reno, Nevada, there was a twist of fate that could only be described as destiny. The story goes that one day on the way to her mother’s house, she caught sight of a man working in his parents’ yard. She watched him through her rearview mirror as she drove past, not knowing that moment would one day become part of their love story. They crossed paths again nine years later in the middle of the Nevada desert by pure chance. Their relationship blossomed and the pieces of their story fell into place. As their relationship progressed, they went on to have a beautiful child named Amanda Sage. That spark led to a deep love that lasted for 28 years.

She was a proud member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. She was a woman who carried the strength and wisdom of her ancestors. Her spirit was deeply rooted in her Native identity. While the soul of the 1970s lived in her heart, it was Native American music that truly moved her, keeping her grounded and connected to her culture.

Robin put herself through college with unmatched determination, earning a Bachelors in Sociology with a minor in Native American Studies and a Masters in Social Work from Humboldt State University. She found a community rich in Indigenous culture and understanding in Humboldt County. a place where she called home and resided in since 2005.

She dedicated over 15 years of her life to Humboldt DHHS Child Welfare Services, where she became a pillar of strength for the families she served and the colleagues she mentored. As a social worker and eventual supervisor, Robin used her compassion and cultural knowledge to lead with heart. Her boisterous laugh was unforgettable, and her presence brought light even during the most difficult times.

She was a champion of culture and healing. Robin spearheaded cultural trainings at CWS to ensure social workers were not only informed, but deeply respectful of the Native communities they served. She also had a unique way of lifting the spirits of those around her—introducing laughter therapy into the workplace. With unapologetic cheer and contagious enthusiasm, she would often lead the room with a hearty “Very good, very good, yay!” while joyfully clapping. Though some may have rolled their eyes at first, her playful spirit had a way of clearing negativity and reminding everyone not to take life — or themselves — too seriously. She made sure that they knew that they mattered especially for whatever time they had together.

Above all else, Robin was a mother, a wife, a daughter, a sister, and a friend who loved fiercely and gave endlessly. She is survived by her three children, Sanau (NuNu), Luke (Cookie Mon), and Amanda Sage (Manda Panda Bear) whom she raised with warmth, humor, and unwavering guidance. Her husband Tom, who shared the story of their love with pride, stood by her through this life’s journey till the very end. Her mother Pat remained a steadfast source of strength and love. Her chosen sister Pam, whom Robin mentored, was her lifelong companion in heart and spirit.

Robin is also survived by her siblings Marty, Todd, Rodney, Steffie and Casey; alongside a vast network of uncles, aunties, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Each of them carries a piece of her light.

Robin Lyn Andrews lived a life that honored her ancestors and nourished her community. She was a warrior for justice, a soul of boundless empathy, and a keeper of stories. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched, every child she uplifted, every laugh she sparked, and every heart she held close.

She will be missed beyond words, but her spirit will echo and be heard for generations.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Robin Andrews’ loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.