Andrew Gagai

July 6, 1952–June 13, 2024

 

Andrew N. Gagai, 71, passed away on June 13, 2024, at Community Hospice in Ashland, Kentucky.

Born on July 6, 1952, in Ironton, he was a retired Locomotive Engineer for the Norfolk Southern Railway Company and a skilled carpenter who worked alongside his father, Andrew D. Gagai, to build many homes in the Ironton area.

Andy graduated from St. Joseph High School in Ironton.

Andy was a gentle soul whose quiet presence touched everyone who knew him.

Though a man of few words, his actions spoke volumes about his love, dedication, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and St. Joseph Church in Ironton.

A passionate sportsman, Andy enjoyed both playing and watching sports throughout his life, fervently supporting the St. Joseph Flyers, the Cincinnati Reds, and the Cleveland Browns.

He was also an avid golfer.

As the quarterback for the 1969 St. Joseph Flyers football team, Andy led his team to victory in the OVC Championship.

Additionally, he was a dedicated member of the Ironton Knights of Columbus.

Andy is survived by his loving wife of nearly fifty-one years, Brenda; his children, Traci (Samuel) Elswick, Tyler (Katherine) Gagai, and Patrick Gagai; and his cherished grandchildren, Samuel Jr., Lucas, Joel, Abigail, Emma, Eli and Abel. He is also survived by his beloved mother, June (Hortel) Gagai, and his brothers, George (Linda) Gagai, John (Sheila) Gagai, and David Gagai.

He was preceded in death by his devoted father, Andrew D. Gagai.

Services will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ironton, on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Family visitation starts at 9 a.m., followed by public visitation at 9:30 a.m.

The Catholic Funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m., with graveside services to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Ironton.

Contributions in Andy’s memory can be made to Ironton Catholic Schools at https://www.irontoncatholicschools.org/ and to Community Hospice of Ashland, Kentucky, at -Hospice Care Center Community Hospice chospice.org https://chospice.org/hospice-care-center.