Andrew Tocimak
Andrew Tocimak, 105, of Osceola Mills, died Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Colonial Courtyard, Clearfield.
Andrew was born on July 30, 1918, in Philipsburg, a son of the late Michael and Anna (Bilanich) Tocimak.
He was a devoted member of Nativity of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Chester Hill; where he served as an Ordained Reader, contributed his voice to the church choir and was a past president of the Church Council.
Andrew graduated from Morris Township High School, followed by studies at the University of Oregon. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Lock Haven University and went on to achieve a Master of Science in Education from Penn State University.
His career in education spanned over four decades; starting as a classroom teacher in Dysart, Pa, and then in Watkins Glen and Limestone, NY, before settling in Osceola Mills. He rose through the ranks, serving as an Elementary Supervisor, Assistant Principal, and ultimately Principal of various schools within the Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District.
Beyond his dedication to education, Andrew was also engaged in various professional endeavors. He served as a Senior Representative for Advantage Capital Corporation and later as an agent for New Horizons Real Estate in Bellefonte, Pa.
Andrew’s commitment to his local community and civic activities extended far beyond his professional life. He held leadership positions in organizations such as the Osceola Mills Rotary Club and the Moshannon Valley Rotary Club, where he served as president for two terms. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Moshannon Valley Health Association and contributed to the development of the Osceola Mills Community Historical Foundation.
Andrew was a proud veteran of World War II. He served honorably in General Patton ’s 3rd Army, 11th Armored Division.
On July 21, 1956, Andrew married the former Louise Petuck, of Osceola Mills. Together, they raised a loving family and shared countless cherished memories. Although she preceded him in death in 2018, their enduring love continues to shine through their children and grandchildren.
Andrew is survived by his daughter, Marjorie Tocimak O ’Neill and her husband, Charlie, of Beaver, Pa; his son, Andrew (Drew) Tocimak and his wife, Maureen, of Philipsburg; five grandchildren: Andrew and his wife, Danielle O ’Neill, of Carlisle, Pa, Caroline Gibson (O’Neill) and her husband, Adam, of Boardman, OH, Samuel and his wife, Sydney O ’Neill, of Charleston, SC, Katie Taylor (Tocimak) and her husband, Brent, of Murfreesboro, TN, and Callie Czap (Tocimak) and her husband, AJ, of Philipsburg; as well as eight great-grandchildren: Coraline, Hugh, Martin, Roslyn, and Frederick, all of Carlisle, Pa, Edith, of Charleston, SC, and Greta and Phoebe, of Boardman, OH; a sister-in-law, Jane Petuck, of Bellefonte; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Andrew was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, Aaron; his three brothers: Mitch, George and John; an infant great-grandson, Landon Taylor; and a brother-in-law, Jack Petuck.
He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his community and his country. He leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A Funeral Service honoring the life of Andrew Tocimak will be at the Nativity of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, 420 Laura Street, (Chester Hill) Philipsburg, Pa., on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with V. Fr. Mark Meholick, officiating.
Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 5 to 8 PM, at the Heath Funeral Home & Cremation Services, LLC, 701 Lingle Street, Osceola Mills. The Philipsburg B.P.O. Elks Lodge #1137 will conduct a memorial service at 4:30 pm and a Panachida service will be held at 7:30 PM, both on Tuesday at the funeral home.
Interment will be at Umbria Cemetery, Osceola Mills, with Military Honors accorded by the Osceola Mills Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be provided in Andrew’s memory to Nativity of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, 420 Laura St, Philipsburg, PA 16866; or to the Osceola Mills Historical Foundation, 601 Lingle St, Osceola Mills, PA 16666.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.heathfuneral.com.
