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What happened to Kettle Gryp co-founder Andy Thomas? Lori Greiner posts SHOCKING tribute

The 'Shark Tank' episode ended with a tribute to Andy Thomas who served as a US Marine Corps helicopter pilot for 20 years

Andy Thomas and Daniel Sheppard, the founders of Kettle Gryp, left the tank grinning from ear to ear after bagging a $300,000 deal from Lori Greiner on 'Shark Tank'. While fans were rejoicing at the sweet success of the Kettle Gryp founders, their happiness quickly turned to shock when the episode ended with a tribute to Andy Thomas. 

Andy, who served as a United States Marine Corps helicopter pilot for twenty years, impressed Sharks and fans with his high-energy presentation and positive attitude. So, when the news of his death was shared by Lori on her Twitter, fans were sad. Lori shared the sad news with a picture of a note that read, "In Memory of Andrew Thomas Loving husband and father, fearless Marine, dearest of friends. Kettle Gryp Co-Founder. The Shark also wrote a moving message to the late entrepreneur. "Here’s to you Andrew! A true American hero, beloved husband, father & friend to so many. Ur hard work & dedication to @KettleGryp & your partner Daniel will live on. Happy to be partners & to help fulfill ur legacy w/ Kettle Gryp."

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How did Kettle Gryp co-founder Andy Thomas die?

Andy succumbed to cancer at the age of 47. Fans took to Twitter to pay their respects to the brave entrepreneur who won over their hearts on 'Shark Tank'. A fan tweeted, "Awe. I send my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences to all of Andrew’s family and friends. You’re in my prayers and thoughts. #SharkTank." Another fan shared, "How sad! OMG, that was a shock. May he Rest In Peace." "So incredibly sad ," echoed a fan. "God bless his family and friends ," expressed a fan. "I’m so sad. I was so intrigued by this product and his energy and excitement was what did it! So sorry for his family and friends," added a fan.

Andy was the Chief Executive Officer of Pangolin Design Group and co-creator of Kettle Gryp. He was also an aviation and fitness enthusiast, who loved traveling. It was Andy's love for travel that pushed him to work on creating Kettle Gryp with his friend/ business partner Daniel. 

'Shark Tank' Season 13 airs every Friday at 8/7c on ABC.