Andrew Polansky, age 95, died Sat, Jan 7, 2023, in the comfort of his home.
Andy was born in Coaldale, PA, the son of Gabriel and Martha Polansky. Upon graduation from Coaldale High School in 1946, Andy enlisted in what was then the Army Air Corps and was selected to go to Radar Weather School. Upon completion, he served in a weather detachment in Panama, Columbia, and Nicaragua and was discharged in 1949. Andy then attended and graduated from Northrop Aeronautical Institute in California where he earned an Aeronautical Engineering degree. He worked at Fairchild Aircraft in Hagerstown, MD, at which time he met his wife, Marjorie. In 1962, he went to work for the US Army at Fort Eustis, VA with the Department of Defense in their aeronautical laboratories and served there for over 30 years. He retired in 1993.
One of Andy’s passions was running. He ran 8 marathons to include the Boston Marathon at age 62. He was recognized and inducted into the Virginia Peninsula Road Racing Hall of Fame in 2008. He continues to hold the 10K VA State Record for Men Ages 70-74 at 45:07, which he ran on 10/31/98. He was one of the original founders of the Colonial Road Runners Club, entered countless local races, often placing first in his age group. He was even selected at one time to represent Nike’s National Team. Innumerable miles were shared running with his daughter, Sonia, with whom he ran two marathons. Andy actually enjoyed and had a natural talent for many sports, including golf, tennis, walking, ping-pong, and working out.
Another passion for Andy was gardening an dhaving his hands in the dirt. In anticipation of spring, he would plant and nurture tomato seeds every February in the warmth of the kitchen window which would result in a luscious garden every year.
Most of all, Andy was an attentive, devoted husband, father and grandfather who preferred above all else spending time with his family. He and Marjorie were married over 50 years. He selflessly and joyfully cared for her in their home for the 12 years, while she suffered with Alzheimer’s disease. He is preceded in death by her and is survived by his daughter, Sonia Purkey (Danny); his son, Matthe Polansky (Shelly); and 2 grandchildren, Peter and Abigail.
The family will receive friends and family on Sat, Feb 11, from 10 to 11 am, followed by a Memorial Service at 11 am at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd, Williamsburg, VA. A celebration of his life will follow at noon at the Kingspoint Club House, Williamsburg.