Col. Leonard E. Andrews, 87, of Gettysburg, PA, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, at Paramount Senior Living Center in Fayetteville, PA.
Born in Princeton, NJ, he was the beloved son of the late Stephan and Julia Eisner Andrews.
Len is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Johnson Andrews, his brother Denis Durkin, and a loving family including four sons, Leonard E. Andrews Jr, Anchorage AK, Christopher S. Andrews (Tami), Boise, ID, Chad A. Andrews (Jennifer), Montoursville PA, and Patrick D. Andrews (Valerie), Gettysburg PA, and seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
A notable academic and military career marked Len’s life. He graduated from Princeton High School, earned a BS from Cornell University, and an MBA from Auburn University. His military education included the Military Squadron Officers School, Air Command Staff College, the Air War College, and the National War College.
During his distinguished service in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1987, Col. Andrews logged 5,000 flying hours and completed 87 unarmed missions over North Vietnam in the RF-4 Phantom. His bravery and skill were recognized with numerous awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross (3 times), and the Air Medal (13 times).
After retiring from the Air Force, Len served as the Peach Glenn plant manager for Knouse Foods from 1987 to 1998. His dedication to public service was evident in his contributions to the Gettysburg Zoning Board, Gettysburg Borough Council, Chamber of Commerce, and the Adams County Waste Management Committee. He also served as a Trustee for the Dwight D. Eisenhower Society and was the past President of Adams County Trout Unlimited and the Pen-Mar Chapter Military Officer’s Association.
Len was an active member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the Gettysburg Country Club, and the Blue & Grey R/C Airplane Squadron. For 15 years, he delivered Meals on Wheels, demonstrating his commitment to community service.
In his leisure time, Len enjoyed fly fishing, cooking, building and flying R/C airplanes, gardening, creating stained glass art, antiquing, maintaining a beautiful Victorian home, working on cars, skiing, kayaking, and canoeing. He shared these passions with his wife and sons, creating cherished family memories.
Len will be remembered for his dedication, kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and adventure.
In lieu of flowers, Len would prefer that you make a donation to a local charity of your choice.
A service at will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church at a later date.
Online obituary and condolences available at the funeral home’s website.
