Andrew John Pekala, proud Army veteran

Andrew John Pekala, 84, of Harbeson, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024.

He was born July 8, 1940, in Windber, Pa., to the late Andrew and Stephanie (Czyzyski) Pekala. Andrew graduated from Windber Area High School in 1958 and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Drexel University in 1965, where he was also a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Andrew served for 20 years, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He married Dorothy C. Pekala (nee Olsen) Oct. 11, 1969, in Staten Island, N.Y. In addition to his military service, Andrew had a distinguished career as a statistician at the U.S. Census Bureau, where he worked for over 20 years.

Andrew was a man of many passions, including reading, gardening, and cooking. He was known for his devotion to his family, his love for learning, and his sharp intellect.

Andrew is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Dorothy “Dotty” Pekala; his daughters, Andrea Pekala, Jennifer Pekala, Amy Johnson and Christina (Brock) Shaffer; his grandchildren, Drew and Kate Johnson, and Brent and Blake Shaffer; his sister, Ann (Bob) Harbrant, his brother, Michael (Linda) Pekala; his brother-in-law, John (Lynn) Olsen; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 27, at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes. Friends and family may call beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will be held privately.

Andrew will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His dedication to his family, his country, and his work left an indelible mark on those whose lives he touched. May his memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to all who knew him.

Visit Mr. Pekala’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.