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Joseph Andrzejewski Obituary
Born in Wilkes-Barre on Dec. 13, 1956, he was the son of the late Vincent and Phyllis Forlin Andrzejewski and grandson of the late Anthony and Laura Forlin.
Joseph was a 1973 graduate of GAR High School and a 1977 graduate of King's College.
His military career began when he completed ROTC and was commissioned as an officer in the Army. A few of his innumerable military accomplishments and positions held over nearly two decades of service include: chief, Military Freefall Branch and combat development officer, JFK Special Warfare Center; commander, Special Forces Operational Detachment, Berlin, Germany; field office chief, Special Projects Support Activity, Fort Bragg, N.C.; R&D officer and section chief, First Special Forces Operational Detachment; and program manager, Joint Special Operations Command.
Surviving are his wife of 24 years, Gillian; beloved son, Dylan; sister, Donna Marie Brazinski, Wilkes-Barre; loving niece and godchild, Miranda Phyllis Brazinski; aunt and uncle, Frank and Mary Jane Forlin, Wilkes-Barre; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
The viewing will be held at Bradley Funeral Home, Marlton, N.J., on Thursday, noon to 2 p.m., with a funeral service to follow by the Rev. Jack Doris. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Joseph's memory to the Disabled American Veterans or any veteran organization of the donor's choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Andrzejewski
Sponsored by King's College Class of 1977.
Donna Andrzejewski Brazinski
May 21, 2025
My big brother, 15 yrs and it feels like yesterday. You are so missed Joey....XOXOXO
Owen Mueller
December 25, 2023
I still remember Joe. You are a Force Multiplier and that is the Ace for an SF soldier to get into heaven. I know you are busy training others and I know you are good at it.
Tim Doris
December 23, 2023
Joe, Time to go " Christmas Shopping". Miss you so much.
Lisa
May 19, 2023
It´s been forever and yet feels like yesterday. So much has changed and it would have been so different if you were here. I keep waiting for the phone to ring and the guy at the other end starts by telling me a joke... I´ll miss you forever!
Doug Atwater
November 21, 2022
12 years on and I think about Joe everyday. Every memory illicits a joyful recollection and laugh. Met Joe in a GP Medium tent in Pohang. S. Korea in August 82. I had just arrived. Typhoon was blowing the cantonment area to hell. We were hanging on to the tent. Then this guy in cutoffs, t-shirt and flipflops grabbed a pastic pitcher and said he was going to get koolaide from the mess tent 50 meters away. Off he went into the malestrom. We waited, waited....waited. An hour later he struggled back in minus his flip flops and cutoffs, covered with mud and carrying a pitcher full of muddy water. He calmly stated, "That was unproductive." I thought, "I want to party with this guy."
Donna
May 20, 2022
12 years....miss you so so much dear brother :(
Owen Francis Mueller
May 19, 2022
Joe is still the best West Pointer officer I ever met.
Owen Mueller
May 19, 2019
In my personal Parthenon of heroes, Joe is in the top three officers who meant the most to me in leadership. He is right behind General Petraeus. He is still a great guy and I believe he did not know fear. He is not forgotten to me. I was a sergeant in C/2/5th SFGA with him and as I moved onward in my career to make Colonel I never forgot the leadership example he was and is. He is the epitomy of an SF soldier. They enter heaven because they are force multipliers. He did not need reinforcements, he made them. RIP Brother.
Daniel Davis
May 28, 2012
His path through life was trod alone,
And through it all, all odds defied,
Unbending will, resolve of stone,
And even Death he met with Pride.
When all at once his world went dark,
He knew he had no cause for fright,
A man who left no earthly mark,
Whose death was but a path to light.
~dbd 2004
I miss you every day Joe.
May 21, 2011
If tears could build a stairway,
and memories a lane,
I would walk right up to Heaven
and bring you back again.
I miss you Joey XOXOXOXOXOX
Love, Sis
LBI - Aug 2008
Donna
May 21, 2011
May 1, 2011
It's almost a year that you left me and I still can't understand why. Miranda asks me WHY, Why did Uncle Joey have to die? As a mother, I should have the answer, but I don't. Our hearts still ache...I would give anything to have you back
January 14, 2011
Joey,
I'm missing you so very much during this extremely difficult time in my life and Miranda's..... but I know deep within my heart, you and Mom and Dad and Gram are guiding me thru.
Sis
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX
January 7, 2011
I was shocked to read of Joe's passing in the King's College Alumni bulletin. Joe and I were students and friends during our days at King's College radio station WRKC-FM, 88.5. Although I graduated a year ahead of Joe, I'll never forget him.
- B. Porter, King's College, 1976.
December 31, 2010
TO GILLIAN AND SIS,
I SERVED WITH JOE IN C CO, 2ND/5TH SFGA. IN THE SUMMER OF 1980 WE WERE ON A 3 MONTH EXTENDED TRAINING MISSION. DURING THIS TIME WE GOT A NEW BATTALLION CMDR WHO WAS MAKING SOME VERY STUPID DECISIONS.
I REMEMBER JOE TAKING ON THE BATTALLION CMDR BECAUSE I BELIEVE HE WAS ONE OF THE FEW RANKING OFFICERS IN THE COMPANY.
THIS I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER;
HE WAS THE CMDR OF ODA 564, AND HE PUT HIS MEN AHEAD OF HIS CAREER. HE PAID FOR IT, BUT THE WORD SPREAD THRU THE COMPANY AND LATER THRU THE BATTALION. HE BECAME ONE OF THE MOST BELOVED OFFICERS IN THAT UNIT.
I WAS A YOU NG BUCK SGT THEN, BUT I WAS THERE WITH DOC FLEMING AND THE OTHERS, I AM NOW A LTC IN THE GUARD, BUT I AM "NEVER" FORGOTTEN WHAT JOE DID, OVER THE YEARS I HAVE ALWAYS KEPT HIM IN MY PERSONAL PARTHENON OF HEROES. TRUST ME ON THIS.
I WAS SO SHOCKED TO READ THAT HE HAD PASSED, I CUT OUT THE OBITUARY AND KEPT IT IN MY JOURNAL, CLEANING OUT MY JOURNAL TODAY I FOUND IT AND WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW. I KEEP HIS MEMORY ON LEADERSHIP VERY CLOSE, BECAUSE HE EXHIBITIED THE BEST KIND,,, "TRUE LEADERSHIP" HE IS IN MY PRAYERS
November 20, 2010
It's 6 months since you've left us; I know you are in a better place but...it's still so very, very, hard for me and Miranda. We miss you so much
SIS XOXOXOXXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX
Adrian Silva
October 16, 2010
Though I didn't personally know MAJ Andrzejewski, I'm originally from Haddonfield, NJ and all of us who served in U.S. Army Special Forces are "brothers" and feel for his family's lose. May he rest in peace.
De Oppresso Liber
Adrian Silva, 3rd SFG, 1966-1969
SFA D-6625
Eric Heid
September 23, 2010
Clear Skys, Star filled nights and Low Winds.
Live life without regrets and turn into the wind when landing.
Prayers to all and never forget when Joe was right he was always right.
September 5, 2010
I know you are helping me make the best decision.....I love you
SIS
August 27, 2010
I finally have a part of you with me..You were the best Joey, the very best....you worked hard, very hard and did so much for your family..I love looking up to the sky every night and seeing that big bright star...it gives me a "warm fuzzy feeling" knowing that my brother is a star and watching over us.
Tito Torres
August 23, 2010
Joe and Roger, the ARMY twin brothers. Thank you both.
RIP...
June 29, 2010
My brother was a great man,
more so than some of you could understand.
He loved his family with all his heart,
I know that’s why he held on so long in the dark.
Although I know he’s gone to a better place,
that doesn’t change the fact I wish I could see his face.
Nothing can bring him back, I wish I could.
I miss his voice and continue to reminisce on his life.
I am holding onto his memory that is so strong.
My life will never be the same, and that is something that will never change.
For me he was the only brother I ever knew.
Always there to guide me to see things thru and thru.
His spirit will be with me forever,
and one day he will guide us all into the light.
Where he’ll be waiting to reunite.
It will take a long time to get through this, but he’ll be watching hoping our souls will prevail.
I will never forget you brother, I never could.
I love you and when we said goodbye, I know you understood.
Love,
Sis XOXOXOXOXO
June 28, 2010
My condolences to the family and friends. I wish i could have gotten to know Joe. Thank you for all you have done for your country and rest in peace with your brothers.
Joe and his red truck
Kathleen Picon
June 28, 2010
SFOC March 1979
Kathleen Picon
June 28, 2010
Mike Morin and Joe November 1978 Canada
Kathleen Picon
June 28, 2010
Doing what he loved
Kathleen Picon
June 28, 2010
Kathleen Picon
June 28, 2010
my deepest condolences to the Andrzejewski family. He was a man of many strengths. May you find peace and comfort.
June 26, 2010
My dear sweet brother....I miss you so very much
June 24, 2010
Thank you all for your kind, thoughtful words and comments.
Mrs. Joseph A. Andrzejewski
Mrs. Gonzo
Mrs. Alphabet
Gillian
Watering Uncle Joey's & Aunt Jill's garden, Aug 2008
June 2, 2010
Patrick Fadden
May 29, 2010
Jillian and Dylan,
I send along sympathy and prayers on the loss of Joe. Though it has been quite a few years since I have talked with Joe, the time spent at WRKC was a memorable experience. His sense of humor and musical background were a positive force, and station members were better for it. Enjoy your Wooden Music in the sky, Joe.
My brother, my hero, my everything....
May 28, 2010
Joey is with Gram now....Gram was 91 when she left us and we loved her
Donna Brazinski
May 28, 2010
Greg and Ilona Gerou
May 28, 2010
Jillian and Dylan,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences and words of support, as we celebrate the life and deeds of a great man, Joe. He was a man of action, who lived his beliefs daily. He was a man among men, respected by his peers and all those whose lives he touched, both personally and professionally.
He will be missed, but well remembered!
All the best to you both, as you bid him farewell.
Love and Hugs,
Greg and Ilona
Kim Bierbach
May 28, 2010
I wanted to write to you again Gonzo. Today you were laid to rest, and I hope that is what you are feeling right now...rest, the hard part is over for you,but just beginning for those you have left behind. I sat with Dylan today, wow he is a man. Kudos to you and Jill for the man he has become. I could write a book right now to tell you how much I miss you but I think Marie Nardone summed you up with her post... An officer and a gentleman! Lots of people showed up today to honor you. R.I.P. you will always have a special part of my heart, as well as Jill and Dylan. Love and miss you, Kim Trying to replace the tears with smiles!!!!!!!!
Bobbie Martin
May 27, 2010
Aloha to the family of Maj Joe Andrzejewski, I was informed by my other Brothers on Fort Bragg of Joe's passing and find myself at a loss for words, Joe, gave allot to my men and me at the Rigger Shop for 1st SFOD-D, He always had a friendly smile and a joke for you, I never saw this man mad or upset, Joe was always "Cool". I enjoyed jumping with Joe, he always had something to teach you. May God Bless You and Keep Always Till we meet again on the Next Jump, Aloha 'Oe my friend. Bobbie Martin
Look what I got.
Gary Marrant
May 27, 2010
Bob & Melanie McKague
May 26, 2010
Rest in Peace Joe. It was an honor to know and serve with you. Jill, please accept our sincerest condolences.
JOE SINAVAGE SR.
May 26, 2010
Joe and I went to grade school and high school together, he was friendly, open and honest. It was sad for me to see his passing, Joe made the world a better place for all that were around him, i remember going to his house on Empire St back in the 60's, I'll miss you my friend and i pass your old homestead a lot, somehow now i'll look at it different since your gone. ........Joe Sinavage Sr. GAR class of 73
Bill Davis
May 26, 2010
To the Andrzejewski Family,
"Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit; aber ich will euch wiedersehen und euer Herz soll sich freuen,und eure Freude soll niemand von euch nehmen." Johannes 16:22
Both Susan and I were saddened to hear of Joe's passing. I consider myself so very blessed to have served with him and so enjoyed his smile, his stories and enthusiastic spirit. His dedication and devotion to God, Country and Special Forces is a legacy that will endure and transcend generations to come. Please accept our deepest condolences and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. As a spiritual gift to your family, we will have a Mass celebrated in his memory at Saint Anne’s Catholic Church. With love and God’s blessing to you all.
Gary Marrant
May 26, 2010
From one Blues brother to another. You will be greatly missed. Jill,I am very sorry for your loss. Remember the good times.
May 26, 2010
I consider myself blessed having Joe as my friend. I don't believe there is a better friend among us. I am a better person for having known him. God bless his family and let his memory live on through them. He will be sorely missed.
Oh how he would tease his niece when she was a toddler!
May 26, 2010
Dan Cartwright
May 26, 2010
"To Everything (Turn, Turn, Turn)
There is a season (Turn, Turn, Turn)
And a time to every purpose, under Heaven"
- the Byrds and King Solomon in the Book of Ecclesiastes
Joe, may the season of your life be fondly remembered.
Joe Ward
May 26, 2010
A well respected man in the Special Forces community that will be truly missed. His charm, wit, and camaraderie were an inspiration to us all. Joe - now remember to take it easy on the Big Jumpmaster in the Sky when the two of you are doing RW.
John Updegraff
May 26, 2010
Gonzo my friend, rest in peace, I will never forget you and will keep to myself some of the crazy things we got into.
Jil, I'm very sorry to hear this, my heart goes out to you and family.
Marie Nardone Arowcavage
May 26, 2010
"An officer and a gentleman" That's how I will always remember Joey. One of finest men I ever knew.
Douglas Atwater
May 26, 2010
The colors of this world are less sharp and vivid,the brightness has dulled. I will forever miss your firm grip handshake and bear hug welcoming me at the airport. To have been Joe's friend is one of the most highest privledge I will have in my life. We walked with Kings, Joe.
George McLeod
May 26, 2010
Wenn einer von uns mude wird, der andere fur ihn wacht-
Wenn einer von uns zweifeln will, der andere glaubig lacht-
Wenn einer von uns fallen sollt, der andere steht fur zwei-
Denn jedem Kampfer gibt ein Gott
Den Kameraden bei.
Rest in Peace Joe
It was a privilege knowing you
George
May 26, 2010
My deepest sympathy to family and friends. You will be missed Joe. You were a true warrior. RIP. DOL,
Rusty Atanasio,
ODA 735 C-1-7th SFG(A)
MFF 4181, D-9520
The Godfather
May 25, 2010
Great Memories
May 25, 2010
May 25, 2010
My Dearest Joey,
You were the best brother a sister could ever have. I love you so very much and I am sure that Mom, Dad, Gram, Pop, & Uncle Joe welcomed you into heaven with open arms. I miss you so much....Love, Donna Marie XOXOXOX
Danny Mathers
May 25, 2010
Joe was a hell of a good guy as well as an officer and gentleman. I worked with him when he was with SPSA. God bless his and his fine family.
Joe Zellers
May 25, 2010
For those of use who have had the honor to work with Joe, know he is one of the truly few who have touched our lives. He has been a mentor, soul mate, and honorable soldier. He had the gift of writing too. I wish my words could convey my feelings as well as he would have put it. The Army is better because of your service. R.I.P.
Chas and Trix Cywinski
May 25, 2010
Mom cried when she heard just as Chas and I did. Joey is like her son and our "brother". We will miss his laughs in WB. Dylan, your Dad will still be here in our hearts.
May 25, 2010
Dear Jill and Dylan, I am so sorry for your loss. Gonzo was a dear friend, who will be missed greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Judi and John Martorano
Mike Vining
May 25, 2010
Joe was a friend, my boss at 1st SFOD-D, and a colleague at JSOC. His lost will be deeply felt and he will be miss.
angelina ciavarella
May 25, 2010
my deepest condolences to everyone, joey was the best man i've ever known.
"my dearest joey, i will miss you so much. you were, and always will be in my thoughts, my heart and my prayers."
Kim Bierbach
May 25, 2010
Gonzo, You lived,laughed,loved,and treated everyone like they were a dear friend. I am blessed that you entered my life and saddened that you left us to soon! I will miss you always!
Rory McGahan
May 25, 2010
You reached a new altitude Joe!!! RIP. Your smooth ways are missed.
Barry Bullock
May 25, 2010
Joe was a coworker, and good friend. I have known him many years, and he has always been there for his friends and family. He would always do what he could to lend a hand if anyone needed it.
I will miss his many tales and stories, and I can still hear him laughing. Along with being kind, Joe was also generous... One of the last thing he did for me was to donate to the Muscular Dystrophy Association for a fundraiser I am involved in.
I know he will be missed by all, my deepest symphaties to his family. I hope the good memories of Joe will bring some comfort to you.
Paula Dailey
May 25, 2010
Jill And Dylan,
I am so sorry to hear about Gonzo.He was always there for everyone. I know he was there for me several times when I needed a shoulder to cry on. You will be missed by many. RIP Gonzo, we love you and will always have you in our thoughts and prayers.
Greg Lovie
May 25, 2010
My condolences go out to all family, friends and service mates of Joe. I never new Joe but as a service mate I new him well. As we close in on another Memorial Day I say thanks to all our service men and women who went in harm way and gave the ultimate sacrifice of life. Joe rest in peace. Greg Lovie, MRCM(SW) USN (Ret)
Dan Shedd
May 25, 2010
Joe was a great man, team leader and friend. I have many fond memories of our times together on ODA 564 when we were both fairly new to the Army and Special Forces. “Lt. A” instinctively knew how to treat and earn the respect of a gang of over achievers, and was very protective and proud of his men. He was a dedicated soldier, a hard charger that got the job done, and we had a few laughs along the way. I will miss his warm greeting with the firm handshake and the big smile. Blue skies!
Have a great landing on the final DZ!
William Easterling
May 25, 2010
See you on the other side where all warriors eventually go. Rest in peace Brother.
De Oppresso Liber
18Z, MFFI-336
Christina Gulla
May 25, 2010
I am sorry to hear about your loss. My parents (Donna and Michael Groh) were good friends with Gonzo for many years and he was a good man.
Mike Murphy
May 25, 2010
Colleague, comrade, commander, coworker, collaborator, friend, and brother. No words can describe what you were to me and the multitude of people whose lives you influenced during your short but enjoyable stay with us. Now you have a greater challenge, try and keep Picket straight!
Jamie Gibbons
May 25, 2010
Jill & Dylan, I am so sorry to hear the passing of Joe. He was such a nice guy and he would do anything for anyone. I know he has been there for me when I needed someone. R.I.P my friend you will be dearly missed. Jamie Gibbons
Michele & Sean
May 25, 2010
Donna, Joe & Miranda: Know that your friends are here for you to lean on during this difficult time.
Soldier under canopy manufactured by Airborne Systems
May 25, 2010
John Mahon
May 25, 2010
My condolences to all the family and friends. I haven't seen Joe in a few years but always counted on him a s a friend and a go to type person. I've known Joe for over 20 years professionally and a few nights worth of beers. He wasa a great soldier and friend. In his civilian life he was always a true professional and we got many things discussed and accomplished for the betterment of the equipment supporting our serviceman and women. He will be sorely missed. Airborne,
John Mahon
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