We are saddened to announce the passing of Andover’s founder, Tom Byers. He died at home on Christmas Day 2012, with his wife of 51 years, Ann (Norman) Byers and son John and his wife Mary at his side. Following an early interest in music and a talent for woodworking and mechanical design, Tom apprenticed at the Pilcher Organ Co. in his hometown of Louisville, KY and later with Chester A. Raymond in Princeton, NJ.
          In 1948 he started the Andover Organ Company. Charles Fisk joined him as a partner a few years later and took over the company when Tom left in 1958 to return to Louisville. In 1961 Fisk left Andover to start C. B. Fisk in Gloucester. Tom worked as a draftsman in Louisville and in 1973 moved back to join Fisk as a designer. He later worked in electronics and for a harpsichord builder. In recent years Tom volunteered at the Sawyer Free Library in Gloucester, retiring in April 2012 due to frail health. He leaves behind many admiring friends. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife and family.