Andrew Joseph Serwin

Andrew J. Serwin, 76, of East Stroudsburg, PA, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday morning, August 18 at the Green Ridge Care Center following recent health challenges. Born on February 25, 1949 (Pisces-big feelings!) in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Andy was the son of Andrew and Eleanore Serwin, who preceded him in death. Andrew served in the U.S. Army from 1968-69 in the Vietnam War, and was a decorated veteran as a heavy machine gunner on a helicopter crew, where he earned a Purple Heart and multiple citations for his actions in combat. Andy lived life large, squeezing every drop of fun he could out of every single moment on this planet. He worked tirelessly throughout his life to support his family, sometimes working two full-time jobs for long stretches to make a better quality of life for them. A skilled tradesman who could also execute automotive, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, Andy worked professionally as a Journeyman printing press operator throughout his life until he retired, and regularly put his skills to use to help friends and family with projects from home renovation to boat slip & dock construction. Active in the Boy Scouts as a youth, Andy later donated his time and efforts to supporting the local scout troops in his area, and also formerly taught a printing course at the Monroe County Vo-Tech. Andy was well-liked and greatly respected by those who knew him for his work ethic, dedication to family, and his love of life. He enjoyed Budweiser beer, menthol cigarettes, VO Gold Canadian Whiskey, fishing, boating, loud rock & roll music, classic muscle cars, sunning himself by the pool, hanging out with the neighbors, reading paperback thrillers, going to bars with mom (later his crew), and New York Giants football. Andy was a devoted spouse and caretaker to his adoring wife of 50 years, Kathleen, who preceded him into the halls of Valhalla in 2021. He is survived by his two children, Andrew Serwin & Nicole Craven; his grandchildren Ryan Craven, Phoebe Craven, and Violet Serwin; and his beloved sisters, Deborah Silva and Elaine Lake. Andy also enjoyed a large extended and blended family, with scores of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved dearly. Special shout-outs to dad's cherished neighbors, the Jaycox Family: Robert, Charlotte, Bobby, and Charlie, who became a second family to him over the last 30 years; his good friend & caretaker Sam King, of East Stroudsburg, PA; and his cadre of bar-hopping drinking buddies who adopted him into their social circle after he was widowed. A celebration of Andy's life will take place at William H. Clark Funeral Home, Stroudsburg, PA, on Friday, September 5. Visitation will take place from 3-4 pm, with the service to follow at 4 pm. Friends and family are invited to gather for a repast gathering hosted at Sarah Street Grille starting at 5 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances may be made to one of the following causes Andy supported: Vietnam Veterans of America Wounded Warrior Project St. Jude's Children Research Hospital.