Andrew F. Pothanszky

POTHANSZKY Andrew F. Pothanszky, age 74, beloved husband of Helen Kennedy Pothanszky of Bridgeport, passed away peacefully in his home Friday, January 30, 2009. The son of the late Andras and Irma Unyi Pothanszky, he was born in Budafok, a suburb of Budapest, Hungary. A "Freedom Fighter," he came to America during the Hungarian Revolution in 1956. Andy quickly learned English and proudly became a United States citizen. A tool and die maker by trade, he went into his first business with a friend in the early 1960s. After the shop grew and became successful, he sold his shares of the business to purchase his first small plane. Flying and owning his own aviation business was always his dream. He obtained a private pilot's certificate, and was rated for twin engine and instruments. Andy absolutely loved to fly. He would share with his family and close friends how flying on top of the clouds helped him put perspective on earthly worries and made him feel closer to God. Andy created a corporation that taught want-to-be pilots, gave instrument training to those who were already pilots and performed avionics and maintenance work on many small aircraft. His company was responsible for the construction of Sikorsky Airport's first two privately financed and owned hangars. He traveled extensively throughout the world, and was involved with European built small aircraft venture. In the aftermath of September 11th, Andy decided to retire. He was a member of AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association), the NRA (National Rifle Association), and the CAP (Civil Air Patrol). A sharp shooter, he enjoyed target practice on the rifle ranges, sheet and trap fields. His talent as a photographer brought him from hobbyist to professional as he was called often to capture wedding events on film. As a major in the CAP, he participated in many search and rescue missions throughout the region, and was responsible for training many of its younger members. A Mason, Andy was a member of the Fidelity St. John's Lodge in Fairfield, as well as being a member of the Scottish Rite, and a Shiner at the Pyramid Temple in Milford. Andy led a very busy and wonderfully fulfilling life. His memory will be cherished by his family including his devoted wife of 43 years, Helen; his son, Andrew Pothanszky, and his wife, Erika of Bridgeport; grandchildren, Elena, Andrew, Anita, and Peter; one brother, Vilmos Pothanszky, and his wife, Roberta of Sandy Hook; one sister, Maria Magocsi of Trumbull; several nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins. His beautiful life and passing over to God will be celebrated with a Christian service to be held Monday at 10:30 a.m. in the Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, 1209 Post Road, in Fairfield Center. His interment will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery. Friends may greet his family Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. with a Masonic Service to be held at 2:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Shriners Hospitals for Children, Office of Development 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607. To sign an online register, please visit us at www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com.