Andrew Torick

In Loving Memory of Andrew Torick

Andrew Torick, 80, of Murrysville, a man of immense strength, determination, and unwavering dedication to God, family, and country, passed away on June 20, 2023. He will forever be remembered for his remarkable resilience, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Andrew’s life touched the hearts of many, and his memory will live on as an inspiration to all who knew him.

Born on July 14, 1942, in Frackville, PA, Andrew grew up in a small town in a large extended family. He was a distinguished military graduate of Penn State University with a degree in aerospace engineering.

Andrew entered the Army and trained as a combat engineer and rose to the rank of Captain. He was a special forces Green Beret and part of the 8th Infantry Division Pathfinder Association. He received the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal while serving in Vietnam. His last tour of duty was in the Republic of South Vietnam.

Subsequent to Andy’s US Army commitment, he spent 42 years in various management and engineering positions at Westinghouse, now Bechtel (BPMI), supporting the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (NNPP). During his tenure at BPMI, he provided critical oversight at various Program suppliers to ensure product quality. He also provided vendor oversight in a unique position reporting directly to the Admiral of the NNPP. At BPMI, he supported design and development of critical valve components and was considered the “Godfather” of valve designs. His hard charging no nonsense approach was very well respected by his colleagues at BPMI as well as vendors and NAVSEA personnel. Andy never overcame obstacles, he went through them to ensure successful task completion. Like all Program icons, he will be missed by many.

Shortly before retirement Andrew faced his biggest challenge in life when he had a stroke and left-side weakness because of surgical complications. Andrew rose to the challenge and charged through his therapy program with pure grit as he reestablished his abilities to work, drive, eat, and perform as he saw fit. Through the determination that he has exhibited through his whole life, Andrew was able to walk out of work on his last day, actively participate in the events and ceremonies of his beloved grandchildren, and share life experiences with those who were lucky enough to know him.

He enjoyed attending every sporting and school event of his grandchildren, finding particular joy in holidays and spending time with his family. He was an active volunteer at Holy Ghost Serbian Orthodox Church, in Slickville, PA. He enjoyed socializing and exercising at the YMCA in Plum.

Andrew is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years Sharon, his children: Carla (the late Jeffrey) Perry, and David (Somayeh), his grandchildren: Alison (Jake) Beley, Emily Perry, Jackson Perry, Macy Perry, Sydney Perry, and Cyrus Torick, and a host of family members and friends who will dearly miss him. While his physical presence may no longer be with us, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us as we carry forward his values and love.

On Saturday, June 24th from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., we gather to celebrate the life of Andrew Torick and express our deepest gratitude for the mark he left on this world with a viewing at Hart Funeral Home Inc. at 3103 Lillian Ave, Murrysville, PA 15668. A Funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church, 2110 Haymaker Rd, Monroeville, PA 15146. In lieu of flowers, masses can be purchased at Mother of Sorrows Church in Murrysville. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to shine brightly, motivating and encouraging future generations to embrace kindness and make a difference in the lives of others.

www.hartfuneralhomeinc.com