Andrew Michael Hlusak

Dr. Andrew M. Hlusak, 92, of Phoenix, Az. passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 4, 2012. He left his family and friends to join his wife of 63 years, Mrs. Margaret Hlusak. Andrew is survived by three sons: Thomas, Martin, and Robert, in addition to his six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Andrew has led an extraordinary life, one that has left his friends and family in admiration. In his early years, he served in the United States Navy as Boatswain’s Mate IC and was the honorary recipient of the American Defense Medal - 1 star, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal - 6 stars, American Area Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. His exemplary record as sailor includes engagements such as Coral Sea, Midway, Guadalcanal, Tassafaronga, Solomon Islands and Pearl Harbor; defining moments in our nation’s history and the man whom we all came to know and love.

After the War, Dr. Hlusak attended Fenn College and Ohio State University where he completed his education as a Doctor of Optometry. He worked in private practice in Phoenix, Az. for the duration of his career. In the 70’s, following his calling as an Optometric Doctor, Andrew became Executive Director of the Vision Service Plan and was vital in its institution in Arizona. To complement his years of service and his professional successes, Andrew was passionately involved with the following organizations in his community: Member of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church, Jr. Chamber of Commerce, ran for Phoenix City Council, Brophy Alumni Association, American Optometric Association for over 50 years, President of the Az. Optometric Association, President of Encanto Kiwanis, and he proudly served as a Board Member for 35 years in the Boys and Girls Club of America.

Dr. Hlusak to many, Dad and Grandpa to others, and Andy to the rest, you will be sorely missed. With much love, we wish you the best and rejoice in your reunion with your beloved wife. To freedom and peace, and the help you have given your fellow man – we thank you for bringing us on your journey.

Viewing, Tuesday, April 10, 2012 10:00am – 11:00am Grimshaw Bethany Chapel, 710 West Bethany Home Road. Gravesite Service to follow 1:00pm National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

For more information: Grimshaw Bethany Chapel (602) 249-2111