Andrew Vitek Sr.

Andrew S. Vitek Sr., 89, of Largo, Fla., formerly of Port Griffith, passed away peacefully on Jan. 31, 2026.

A devoted husband, father, and man of deep faith, Andrew's life was defined by his love for family, service to others, and unwavering dedication to God.

Born in Port Griffith on Jan. 4, 1937, to the late Andrew and Mary Koscelnak Miskovic Vitek, Andrew grew up in a large and loving family.

He served in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1959.

Andrew married the love of his life, Beatrice (Colangelo) Vitek, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion and partnership. Together, they owned and operated The Big Four Restaurant and Campgrounds in Falls for 19 years — a cornerstone of community and friendship for many. After semi-retiring to Largo, Fla., Andrew embarked on a second meaningful career as a deputy with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, where he faithfully served for 15 years before retiring. He continued to minister as a chaplain to inmates after retirement, spreading compassion and faith wherever he went.

Andrew's home was always filled with love, laughter, and his passion for photography and scrapbooking, which allowed him to capture the beauty of the life he cherished.

Andrew was known for his boldness, humility, kindness, and capacity to love — a man whose heart had room for everyone he met. He will be remembered most for his remarkable and steadfast devotion to god.

He was preceded in death by many siblings who remained close to his heart throughout his life, Mary Vitek, Joseph, George, and Leo Vitek, Emil Miskovic, Emily Greback, Josephine Vitek, Ruth Warnagiris, Betty Fereck, Irene Pitel, Julie Utegg, Sister M. Florine Vitek, O.S.F., and Sister M. Andrene Vitek, S.S.C.M.

He was a proud father to Mark Vitek and wife, Beverly, Hatboro; Christopher Vitek, Pine Mountain, Ga., Cyril Vitek and wife, Brenda, Clearwater, Fla.; and Andrew Jr. and wife, Dr. Melissa, Doylestown; grandchildren, Kristina, Nicole, Robert, Drew, Alex, Nina and Mathew; and great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Aidan, Regan and Rowan.

A military funeral will be held in his honor in Florida.

A Mass will be held locally at 9 a.m. Sunday, March 22, 2026, in Church of the Holy Redeemer, Harding.