Andrew Rusyn Panczyszyn

Andrew Rusyn Panczyszyn, age 51, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. His life was marked by service, integrity, love, and a truly one-of-a-kind sense of humor.

Born to the late Stefan and Zenovia Panczyszyn, Andrew carried forward his family’s Ukrainian spirit with pride while embracing every opportunity his beloved United States offered him. At 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, beginning a lifetime of service that carried him to every corner of the globe, from Korea and Japan to Germany and Australia. He served two deployments in Iraq and one in Afghanistan, and his assignments also brought him to Kurdistan, Ukraine and Guam. Wherever he went, Andrew lived by the values of honor, discipline, and duty.

Most recently, Andrew found both purpose and belonging in Qatar, where he served as Security Program Manager for the Arabian Peninsula and Jordan as a contractor for the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations. He admired his colleagues and often spoke of their dedication and teamwork. Of all the places he lived, Qatar held a special place in his heart.

Beyond his disciplined nature, Andrew will be remembered for his unique humor and genuine humility. His wit was a rare blend, equal parts Hogan’s Heroes and Seinfeld, bringing levity to even the most serious of situations.

Andrew was also a devoted animal lover. He held a special place in his heart for dogs, whose loyalty and companionship he cherished just as deeply as they cherished his.

Andrew leaves behind his sister, Natalia, and her husband, Christopher DeLaGuardia. He was a proud uncle to Mia and Stefan DeLaGuardia and revered his cousin, Maria Bilinski, who remained a steadfast part of his life.

Andrew’s journey was rooted in family, strengthened by heritage, and enriched by the many lives he touched across the world. He will be remembered for his discipline, his devotion, his humor, and his golden heart.

Family and friends received at HOLOWCHAK FUNERAL HOME; 5548 State Rd. Parma OH 44134 on Saturday September 6, 2025, from 3:30 to 6:30 PM for a Celebration of Life, Marine Honor Guard Services at 4:00 PM, Ukrainian Parastas and Funeral Services 4:15 PM and Ukrainian American Veterans after Funeral Services at the Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA):    www.aspca.org

or

United Help Ukraine:   www.unitedhelpukraine.org