IN MEMORIAM

Andrew J. Kubis, 97, Middlefield;

Farmer, WWII Vet, Civic Leader

MIDDLEFIELD – Andrew J. Kubis, 97, a farmer, decorated World War II veteran and founding member of the Middlefield Fire Department, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2017 at home surrounded by his family.

Born in Kearney, Pa., on Sept. 28, 1919, to Michael and Mary Kubis, the family moved to Middlefield when Andrew  was 11. Andrew lived and worked on the family farm until joining the Army, where he was a tank unit commander in the armored cavalry.

During World War II, he fought in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and the Ardennes forest. He was awarded many medals, including a bronze star, purple heart, and POW medal. Discharged with a rank of captain he returned to the family farm.

When he returned home he met his future wife Joan. They married on Nov. 15, 1948, and shared 55 years together, until her passing in 2003.

He was a founding member of the Middlefield Fire Department, town board member, and served on the Review Board for many years. He enjoyed farming, spending time with his family, and fishing with his sons.

He is survived by sister Vicky Maker; daughter Susan Young and her children, Jeff and Ashley; sons Mark, wife Barb and their children Alison (Steve) Gridley and Eric (Jen) Kubis; Phillip and his children Avalon and Phillip; and Steve and Rose; two great-grandchildren and several relatives.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is predeceased by brothers John, Joe, Mike and Frank.

Military services will be at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7, 2017 in the Saratoga National Cemetery. A celebration of his life with friends and family will be held on a date convenient to family