Andrew E. Kantra Jr.

Andrew E. Kantra, Jr., 88, of Hamden passed away Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Whitney Center. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor. Andy Kantra was born in Clifton, New Jersey on September 17, 1936, to the late Andrew and Mary (Kadash) Kantra and grew up in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Before getting married, he graduated from Yale University with a B.A. in English. He then served two years in the U.S. Army, in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, teaching English as a Second Language. In a career that spanned more than four decades, Andy worked in new product development and marketing for products as different as Ziploc bags, bowling products, and LED-based digital displays. Before moving to Whitney Center, Andy was a 40-year resident of Weston, Connecticut. During that time, he had adventures backpacking, kayaking, and skiing. He and his wife Ann enjoyed trips to their roots in Ireland and Slovakia and to Italy and France. He was a regular member of the weekly men’s group at Sacred Heart Church. For a student who struggled with reading and math, Andy was a committed mentor through middle school, high school, and beyond. More than anything, Andy was a kind and caring person. He had an innate sense of when someone needed help and was not afraid to extend himself. He will be remembered for giving the best hugs, finding the good in life, having a great sense of humor, and sharing fully in the lives of those he loved. Andy is predeceased by his loving wife of 64 years, Ann, his infant son, Michael, his brothers, Robert and Albert Kantra, and his sister, Loretta Ciuffo. He is survived by his children: Andy Kantra (Malaine Reed), Julia Kantra Glynn (Dave Glynn), Suzanne Kantra (Josh Kirschner), and his grandchildren: Alanna, Zach and Max Kirschner, and Grace Kantra. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Calling hours and a funeral service will be held Thursday, April 10, 2025, 10:30am-12:30pm, Sisk Brothers Funeral Home, 3105 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, CT. A reception will follow at Cafe Amici 1640 Whitney Ave. Hamden, CT, 12:30-2:30pm. Burial will be private and will take place in Medford, Massachusetts on Friday, April 11, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Andy’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, http://www.alz.org or 800-272-3900.

Andrew E. Kantra Jr.

September 17, 1936 - April 2, 2025