Andrew Konecni

Andrew W. Konecni, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, died at Nyack Hospital on October 29, 2010 at the age of 61. Born in Suffern, Andrew lived most of his life in Haverstraw, Stony Point, and Valley Cottage. He attended St. Peter's Elementary School in Haverstraw and was an all-county football player at North Rockland High School. He also distinguished himself as a wrestler, ranking third in the state in his weight class and winning a victory over the New Jersey state champion. He was a graduate of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry and earned his degree by simultaneously taking classes at Mercy, Rockland Community College, and Westchester Community College. He was a certified paralegal and had a successful career running his own title insurance company. He was a deeply intelligent and perceptive man and a strong writer. His thirst for truth and profound insight into human nature were surpassed only by his unshakable faith in God and his unquestioned devotion to family. He was kind, funny, and optimistic in the face of great difficulties. He never wavered in his belief that he could overcome any hardship and he was always willing to do whatever it took to support his family financially and emotionally. He was brave and steady in times of crisis. He was always ready to help strangers, and was even awarded a citation by the city of Baltimore, Maryland for helping to save a motorist who had been in an accident on the highway. He was interested in astronomy, history, law, politics, psychology, and theology. He was an avid motorcyclist and a member of the Ramapo Motorcycle Club. He loved camping and was involved with the Boy Scouts of America. He had a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was a fourth degree Knight of Columbus and a member of Blessed John XIII Council in Congers. He was predeceased by his father, Andrew, and his mother, Eleanor (nee Hackett). He is survived by his wife Donna, his sons Anthony (Annette), Joshua (Lori), Matthew, and Mark, his daughters Cathy Schwartz (Josh) and Jenna Konecni, and seven grandchildren. To his children, he was more than a man. He was a great father, a teacher who imparted wisdom, and a hero who inspired great things. His interests live on in them. He is also survived by his brother Bruce, his sister Gail (Upton), several nieces and nephews, and several cousins. He was a blessing to all who knew him, and will be terribly missed. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary's Parish in Haverstraw ( 46 Conklin Ave.) on Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 10 a.m. Visitation is on Wednesday, November 3, 2010, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home in Congers (113 Lake Road East). Interment will be at St. Peter's Cemetery in Haverstraw.