The '80s generation lost someone very special today, Andrew Koenig.
With his funny head bobs, mannerisms and goofiness, Andrew nailed the role of Richard "Boner" Stabone, best buddy to Mike Seaver (Kirk Cameron) on Growing Pains. He practically created this character with his signature swagger and off-the-wall commentary. His fake, heavy New York accent made him the most believable actor on a show that was supposedly set in Suffolk County, Long Island -- 15 Robin Hood Lane, Huntington, NY if you want to get that specific.
As stated in previous posts, I was a diehard Kirk Cameron / Growing Pains fan growing up. Although I never actually sent fan mail to Andrew, I thought he was a cool kid back in the day. Andrew wasn't abusing drugs. He didn't appear to be an alcoholic. Nope, he died of something that kills people every day, depression. Emotions and sadness killed a guy much too young to leave this planet. It's tragic that an innocent man who protested for peace and environmental issues had to quit life so soon.
In addition to portraying the role of Mike Seaver's wingman on Growing Pains, Andrew appeared in other 1980s classic TV shows we knew and loved including: My Sister Sam, 21 Jump Street and My Two Dads.
My heart goes out to his family. I ask all of my readers to keep Andrew's family in your thoughts.
You will be missed, Andrew Koenig.
