Andrew M. Simko

Andrew “Andy” M. Simko was born on October 17, 1936 in Manhattan, NY to Anna and John Simko and older brother John Jr. Andrew passed away on January 7, 2023 with his family by his side after a long illness.

Andy graduated Sewanhaka High school in Floral Park, NY and pursued a career in building and construction. He started his family business, Garden Under Glass, and managed his company building greenhouses and sunrooms for 65 years.

He met his wife of 64 years, Jeannette Link, when he was 21 at the Wal-Cliffe Roller Rink in Elmont, NY. They were married in 1958 and raised their family in Bellerose Village, NY. Jeannette and Andy went on to have 7 children - Mark, Tom, Marty, Andrew, Susanne, Jeannette, and Kristine. In addition, Andy was loving grandfather to 9 grandchildren - James, Daniel, Scott, Kalea, Garrett, Antonina, Carlo, Vito, and Michael.

Family and friends far and wide remember him as a devoted husband, loving father, and caring “grumpa”, he created many wonderful memories of family trips and outings. His adventurous spirit made him always up for a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, road trip to Florida, and or the numerous camping trip to the Adirondacks, eastern Long Island, and Pennsylvania.

Andy was an active member of the Bellerose Village Fire Department, serving as chief for several years. In addition, he volunteered countless years for the Boy Scouts, and served as troop leader in the Girl Scouts. Members of Troop 1088 still have fond memories of his infectious good humor, gregarious personality, affable nature and generous spirit.

Andy was predeceased by his parents Anna and John, as well as his beloved granddaughter, Kalea. He is survived by his loving wife Jeannette and brother John, as well as his children and grandchildren. His legacy remains through the memories of his infectious humor, corny jokes, and open, warm and welcoming nature to those who entered his life and home.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Little Flower Children and Family Services.