Andrew Steven Hullinger, known affectionately as Andy, left this world on July 4, 2025, suddenly and unexpectedly due to complications of cancer, which he had been living with for over a year. Born in Decatur, Illinois on October 12, 1965, Andy’s optimism and imagination inspired everyone he met. He passed away with his wife by his side in Evanston, Illinois, leaving a legacy of curiosity, creativity, and joy.
Andy was the beloved husband of 35 years to Meg Egan and the proud father of Lily (Michelle) and Ben (Margaret) Hullinger. He was a cherished brother to Dana (Lynnette), Jon (Morgan), and Ty Hullinger. His role as a fun-loving uncle to Amanda, Fiona, Rachel, Maeve, Riley, Cait, Roan, Finley, Maddie, and Luke, as well as a great-uncle to Joseph and Isaac, will be fondly remembered. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jasper and Joyce Hullinger.
Andy earned his Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication at Blackburn College in 1987 and applied his skills and passion for design throughout his professional life. His career included influential positions as Creative Director/Designer for numerous advertising agencies, including Dept. 11, HY Connect, energyBBDO, Y&R, Element 79 Partners, Leo Burnett Company, Capps Digital, and Willson Graphics. In 2008, Andy changed career paths to become a Design Professor and Department Chair of Web Design & Development at Harrington College of Design. In 2015, he achieved his MFA in Communications Design and worked as an educator and lecturer at Medill. He loved his new role as a teacher, helping to shape the talents and creativity of his students. His students all loved learning from him. His creative pursuits and recognitions also included working as a Type Designer for T26 and the creation of the award-winning children’s book App, Dragon Brush. One of his font designs, Christmas Gift Script, can be found in the older editions of the 3rd Harry Potter book, The Prisoner of Azkaban, in reference to Mr. Padfoot on the Marauder’s Map.
Whether playing guitar with his band at The Musical Offering, singing with the North Shore Choral Society, or designing for the Women’s Western Golf Association, Andy brought a unique flair and enthusiasm to every creative endeavor. A noted “jack-of-all-trades and self-proclaimed “Renaissance Man”, his talents and hobbies ranged from caring for animals to collecting fountain pens, Blackwing pencils, and Field Notes. Andy was a skilled woodworker, luthier, and entertainer, who was a card-carrying member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, Order of Merlin.
Andy was a devoted and loving father to Lily and Ben Hullinger. He took great pride in being a parent, especially through reading books to his kids, creating costumes for Halloween, assisting them with the Science Olympiad, and being an active mentor in their day-to-day lives. Andy was proud to see his creativity reflected through Lily and Ben’s numerous artistic passions.
Andrew Steven Hullinger’s journey through life was one marked by laughter, hope, and an unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of others through his creative spirit, kind heart, and quick wit. His memory will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know him.