Andrew Kundratic

1934 - 2024

Andrew Kundratic, a proud U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024, in Wilkes-Barre, at the age of 90.

Andrew was born in Jenkins Twp., Jan. 9, 1934. He attended Jenkins Twp. High School, where he excelled as a three-sport athlete, particularly renowned for his exceptional pitching abilities. His talent on the mound led to recruitment offers from leagues across Northeastern Pennsylvania, and he even tried out for several Major League Baseball teams. However, in 1953, Andrew chose to join the U.S. Air Force and served in the Korean War. Upon returning to the States, he was stationed at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland and was honored to serve as a member of the Air Force Honor Guard during the inauguration of John F. Kennedy in 1961.

After his military service, Andrew worked as a purchasing agent for Harte and Co., which later became Huls America. Following his retirement, he enjoyed traveling across the U.S. in his RV with his brother, Bill, and his daughter, Cheri.

Known for his mechanical skills, there was nothing he couldn't fix - from cars and boats to dishwashers and hot water heaters - even as his mind and dexterity began to decline.

Andrew had a sweet tooth and a love for exploring, often taking long drives to Lake Wallenpaupack, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon or Harveys Lake, always with his dog by his side. He also enjoyed watching baseball, rarely missing a Phillies game with his brother Bill.

Andrew is survived by his sons, Andrew George Kundratic, Mountain Top; and Kevin William Kundratic, Bear Creek; his granddaughters, Brittany Kundratic Horvath, Bound Brook, N.J.; and Julia Margaret Kundratic, Washington, D.C.; siblings, Pauline Sapek, Franklin, N.J.; and William Kundratic, Jenkins Twp.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret "Peg" Ann Watkins Kundratic, Wilkes-Barre; daughter, Cheri Ann Kundratic, Wilkes-Barre; sisters, Josephine Giza, Bald Mountain; and Marion Malinski, Shrewsbury; and parents, Andrew and Julia Broda Kundratic, Jenkins Twp.

A visitation was held at Yeosock Funeral Home, 40 S. Main St., Plains Twp., with funeral service conducted by the Rev. Peter Haenftling, of St. Matthew Slovak Evangelical Lutheran Church. Interment with military honors was in Hanover Green Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

The family expresses their heartfelt appreciation to Andrew's many friends and family for their kind and loving devotion throughout his life. They would especially like to thank the doctors, nurses and countless other staff at Wilkes-Barre Veterans Affairs Hospital and Community Living Center for their diligent care and comfort during the final months of his life. Special gratitude is extended to Andrew's home health aide, Cynthia, and his nurse and friend, Sarah Gibbon, who brightened his days and brought him great joy.

Donations may be made to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge at www.bcfanimalrefuge.org/donate.