Two-Time WSOP Bracelet Winner Howard “Tahoe” Andrew Passes Away Aged 86

Days after news of multibillionaire Sheldon G. Adelson’s passing came through, the poker community was dealt another blow with the death of two-time WSOP bracelet winner Howard “Tahoe” Andrew, who passed away at the age of 86.

Andrew is best known for his success at the 1976 World Series of Poker (WSOP). He has participated in the WSOP Main Event each year since 1974, the longest such streak for any player.

Early Life

Born in 1934, Andrew had earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in math from San Francisco State University. After graduating, Andrew turned to the business world. Later, he married, had four daughters, and eventually eight grandchildren.

Poker Journey

Andrew started playing poker at the age of 21. In 1976, he won both The Horseshoe’s Businessmen’s and Preliminary Hold ’em tournaments, earning himself two bracelets in consecutive days. The 1978 WSOP Media Guide called him “one of the World Series of Poker’s most formidable non-pros.” They went on to say, “If an award were given out to the player who shoved all his chips to the center of the pot most often, he’d probably win it.”

At the time of his passing, Andrew had $1,505,089 in total live earnings, which included $324,610 in WSOP cashes.

Poker Legacy

Andrew got his nickname, “Tahoe,” for honing his poker skills while living in Lake Tahoe for 10 years. Apart from Doyle Brunson, Andrew was among the very few poker veterans who have enjoyed a long career in poker spanning over six decades.

A gentleman at the poker table, Andrew had touched the lives of thousands of poker players and dealers over the years. His death resulted in an outpouring of grief from the poker fraternity.

RIP Howard “Tahoe” Andrew. You were an asset to the poker industry. I enjoyed competing against you over the years. I enjoyed traveling the world with you on many cruises. I am proud to call you my friend and I will miss you.

— Linda Johnson (@FirstLadyPoker) January 13, 2021

Ladies, Gentlemen and poker players alike … raise your glass in a toast to the memory of one of the game’s great gentlemen

Howard Andrew … Tahoe … you are already missed, my friend pic.twitter.com/8UTzM4EFd8

— Dan Ross (@HoldemMedia_Dan) January 14, 2021

I can’t claim to have known Howard “Tahoe” Andrew, but I played with him a number of times in the Bay Area. He was always extremely affable and fun at the table.

I did have one hand with him which will stay with me for obvious reasons.

— Jeff Walsh (@JeffWalshPoker) January 13, 2021

We lost a true poker legend, Howard “Tahoe” Andrew.

Rest In Peace my friend. pic.twitter.com/NtguBUhCUI

— Matt Savage (@SavagePoker) January 13, 2021

Andrew’s six-decade-long poker career was an immense contribution to the mind sport. His presence will be always be felt. RIP Tahoe.

Cover Image Courtesy: PokerNews