Charles Thomas “Tom” Andros, Sr.

February 20, 1936-April 26, 2025

Charles Thomas “Tom” Andros, Sr., 89, of Altoona, passed away Saturday at his residence after an extended illness. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late Harry and Helen (Basaites) Andros, who immigrated to the United States from Greece.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and thirteen siblings, including five brothers who served with distinction in the Second World War: James, George, Christ, Paul, John, Alex, Nick, Charles, Marian, Anna, Georgette, Mary and Connie. Also, preceding him was a special brother-in-law, Cody Emes and brothers-in-law: John and Larry Dorazio and John Myers.

Tom married Concetta “Connie” Dorazio at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in 1965.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 60 years; his three sons: Christian Andros (Judy McNellis) of Pittsburgh, Tom Andros, Jr. (Renee Cassarly) and Craig Andros (LuAnn Miller) both of Altoona and; four grandchildren: Anthony, Alex, Brayden and Alex. Tom is also survived by his sister, Marie Emes with whom he shared a special bond; a sister-in-law, Esther Myers; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was a 1954 graduate of Altoona High School and was an avid basketball player after high school. Along with his childhood friend, Henry Lee, Tom played in numerous area leagues in the 1960’s and ‘70’s and frequently played against notable players from St. Francis at the Jaffa Mosque when freshmen were ineligible, such as Norm Van Lier and Calvin “Cal” Fowler.

In 1959, Tom was drafted into the US Army and served honorably as a linotype operator, stationed in Steubenville, OH. Upon his return to Altoona, Tom began a lengthy career as a printer for the Altoona Mirror, where he worked for nearly 30 years. He was a member of the International Typographic Union (ITU) where he served as an officer. Tom also worked at Lumax Industries until his retirement.

He was a former member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and a member of the Catholic War Veterans Club.

Tom was incredibly active in his local community with youth sports. He helped build the current Altoona Little League field on ninth street in 1983 and coached there for over 15 years with his good friend, Carl Cacciotti. He also volunteered as a youth football coach for McNelis Catholic with another close friend, Rocco DePiro and finally as football equipment manager at Bishop Guilfoyle High School in the late ‘80’s.

In his later years, Tom loved to spend time with Connie, his children and grandchildren, watching the Steelers and driving his familiar red Ford pickup. He and Connie had numerous close friends that they socialized with, like Joe & Bonnie Russo. Perhaps his favorite place in town, was Mike’s Court in Fairview, talking with the owner, Mike Luciano and his friends.

Friends will be received from 4-7 pm on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.