Andrew P. "Andy" Abiusi

UTICA - Andrew P. “Andy” Abiusi, age 73, was comforted with the knowledge that he would be going home to the Lord, when he passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024, surrounded by his daughters and family, which was a blessing for all of them to be together. Born in Utica on February 26, 1951, Andrew was the son of the late Samuel and Lottie (Stawiasz) Abiusi. He attended St. Joseph and St. Patrick Grammar School and was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1969. Andy married the love of his life, the former Bridget Finn, on November 20, 1976. A single encounter started their courtship which lasted 47 years. They were best friends, most precious to each other as they traveled their years together. They were a fine example to their daughters of what a marriage should be. They honored their vows to each other every day and their love was truly profound. Andy took care of Bridget to his very last days. Andy began his career working at the New York State Canal Corp. He later gained employment at Marine Midland. His paramount position was being a custodian in the Whitesboro Central School District, where he was beloved by the staff and students alike. He was a good-hearted man, whose charming and spirited personality won the respect of many. Andy proudly retired at 55 to devote himself to his wife, family, and homelife. Andy was sociable, a great conversationalist, and possessed a friendly nature. A hard worker, he always provided for his family. As a dad, Andy was admired as a superhero. He was protective and gave the best fatherly advice laced with paternal wisdom. His girls now know the profit of his words and live by the values he instilled in them. As a father, Andy was a big kid himself, never shying away from having a good time with the kids. Wherever he was, Andy could draw people in, most often through his laughter. Andy’s single laugh could infect the whole room and brought so many people together in joy. Andy’s grandchildren called him “Grandpa Andy,” “Krampa Andy,” and “Pa.” Each name was a precious reflection of their own unique love for him. On Christmas Eve, Andy would gather his grandchildren and they would accompany him to collect the ingredients for the Feast of the Seven Fishes; to this day they could almost taste the memorable presentation! His grandsons were the recipients of the iconic Hess trucks that remain in their original boxes. Christmas Day was the real deal. The rooms were filled with love and laughter and the family was truly blessed. Andrew was a wonderful chef, and the family is thankful for the ravioli recipe that will be enjoyed for generations to come. In addition to pasta, he was also a master griller. Andy was a sports fan who followed the NY Yankees and Jets each season. When critiquing the games, his favorite line was - “What do you want, blood?!” As a fan, Andy was excitable and animated. He had his favorite chair and control of the remote. Whenever he was watching a game, anyone who came over could stay if they had winning vibes, but if they had bad karma, they’d be asked to leave. No one will ever forget his request for an “air five” that was his unique connection. A special tradition for Andy and Bridget was their annual getaway to Old Forge, where they would connect in the simplicity of a cabin. Andy was a spiritual man who had a personal relationship with the Lord, especially when he needed the support during the different seasons of his life. Andy is survived by his loving wife, Bridget; daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer and Roman Dybacz, Heather and Matthew Ellis, and Tiffany and Danny Breckenridge; grandchildren, Ashlynn Dybacz; Samuel Ellis; Vincenzo, and Anna Breckenridge; and brother and sister-in-law, Philip and Shirley Abiusi. He fondly remembered his sister, Louise M. “Lu” Abiusi, who passed away on March 4, 2019. He will further live on in the hearts of his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. Andy, in addition to his grandchildren, was comforted and so pleased with their choices of companions; Lexi, his grandson Vin’s girlfriend, and Marsean, his granddaughter, Ashlynn's boyfriend, both were an incredible addition to his already great family. Andy was further predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jack and Mary Finn. The family would like to express a special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the ICU at Wynn Hospital who were exceptionally kind and accommodating; the sixth-floor staff, who were also attending to his wife, Bridget, were extremely understanding and compassionate. Among the many special people in Andy’s life, it is necessary to mention Stanley “Cookie” and his wife, Gladys Sychtysz, and Howie Burdick. They were supportive, remained very connected, not only as friends but as neighbors. Andy’s daughters would like to give special thanks to Julie Dybacz for being there for them this entire time. She has been that parent figure for them and they are deeply thankful for her. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Andrew’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph and St. Patrick Church, 702 Columbia St. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Andrew P. "Andy" Abiusi

February 26, 1951 - May 12, 2024