Andrew Bartko

Andrew Bartko, age 99, of Massillon passed away January 22, 2013. Andy was born October 27, 1913 in Massillon to the late John & Sophia (Heben) Bartko. Andy became active in politics in the Democratic Party at the age of 21. He was a postmaster in Massillon for a short time and a precinct committee member for many years. Into his 90's he was an appraiser for the County Sherriff Real Estate Department and worked for the Board of Elections. In his private time he operated the Bartko Insurance Company. He was the Treasurer of the Western Stark Democratic Club, served on the Stark County Democratic Central Committee, and was considered by many as Mr. Democrat. In 1949 he started attending the Indy 500 Races thru 2000. Andy loved the water, especially waterskiing, and skied into his 80s. In addition he is a life member of the Elks, Eagles and Moose Lodges. He was active in St. John Lutheran Church, where he served on many committees and was the head usher for 58 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five siblings: Nellie Henry, Mary, Mike, John, and Dan Bartko. He is survived by several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins. His funeral Service will be 11 AM Friday at St. John Lutheran Church in Massillon. His pastor Rev John Telloni will officiate. His final resting place will be Sunset Hills Burial Park. Friends may call Thursday from 6-8 PM at the Paquelet Funeral Home and from 10 AM until the service at the church. Messages of support and sympathy can be sent to the family at www.paquelet.com. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory 330-833-3222