Loved ones remember Andrew Boldt during funeral services



WEST BEND (WITI) -- The visitation and funeral for a West Bend man killed at Purdue University were held in West Bend on Tuesday, January 28th -- and friends and family members had a chance to remember 21-year-old Andrew Boldt.

The visitation and funeral were held at the St. Frances Cabrini Church in West Bend.

Boldt was killed one week ago, on Tuesday, January 21st at Purdue University.

Officials say Boldt was shot and stabbed.

Loved ones say the 21-year-old man was smart, close with his family and active in the community.

They say he had a very promising future, and they are heartbroken he's gone.

"I think it's just our faith that's going to get us through this," Father Warren Sazama with Marquette University High School said.

Andrew Boldt was a student at Marquette University High School before attending Purdue University.

"He always had a big smile -- always a big hello," Sazama said.

Among the mourners Tuesday was Purdue University President and former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels.

"We feel a sense of loss and it hasn't really diminished over the last week. I would suggest our students honor Andrew by trying to be the student he was -- and that won't be easy," Daniels said.

Daniels met with the Boldt family, expressing his condolences.

"I've encountered very few people like them in my life who somehow, at a time of loss, somehow manage to inspire you," Daniels said.

As night fell Tuesday, thousands gathered inside for a funeral Mass -- leaning on one another and their faith in an effort to heal.

"Maybe if there's a lesson it is that we should appreciate our loved ones and appreciate every moment we have here on earth because we never do know when it's going to be our last," Sazama said.

The Boldt family continues to thank the community for its support, and continues to ask for prayers.

Meanwhile, a scholarship has been created in Boldt’s honor — and donations are being accepted for that scholarship fund. The fund will be used to provide financial assistance to eighth-grade students of Catholic parishes in Washington County who desire to attend Marquette University High School or Divine Savior Holy Angels High School.

Awards will be given to those who exemplify the character and spirit of Boldt — carrying on his legacy of excellence.

Checks can be made payable to Saint Frances Cabrini Parish, with “Boldt Scholarship” in the memo line.