Andris Darznieks

Peaceful Passing

At 80 years old, in the comfort of his home, Andris Peter Darznieks peacefully passed on February 21st, 2022. Andy always expressed the enjoyment and want to be in his home, rather than anywhere else; and by God's grace and mercy, Andy had his heart's desired fulfilled having passed in a state of comfort. Most importantly, this was done because Andy was a Christian and he loved the Lord greatly, along with his wife and family.

Family Life

As a stout Christian, Andy expressed such love being a husband to Carol Darznieks, and a son to Peters Zdanovskis (08/22/1912-1945), and Valdemars (10/13/1913 – 12/13/2007) and Skaidrite Darznieks (10/05/1922 – 11/07/2019). As well, Andy was a brother, and Dad and Grandpa to many. Andy was very much loved by his family, and he returned the love greatly; yet to his wife, Carol Darznieks, Andy held an upmost part of his love, in his heart, for her.

Andy and Carol were married for 35 years. They enjoyed traveling, camping, and barbequing together. Andy loved sharing such passions with his children and grandchildren also, as he took them on many trips and involved himself in their school activities. Andy loved to watch his grandchildren play sports, and he loved to read books to their classmates alongside his wife on special school days. Andy was a gentle giant to those around him, and gentle giants express love. Andy shared such love with a soft-spoken, patient, and kind-hearted manner in every trip that he planned, game that he attended, and school function that he participated in. Andy loved making memories and talking about passions with those he loved.

Andy's desire to create fond memories stemmed from being born in Riga, Latvia on January 1 ^st , 1942, to Valdemars and Skaidrite Darznieks. Andy was the eldest of four, Maris (Lorraine) Darznieks, John Andrew Darznieks, and Deborah Lynn Darznieks. Having to leave Latvia due to conflicts and occupying forces post World War II, Andy and his family were displaced and relocated to Munich-Pasing camp in Germany as refugees. On June 22, 1950, Andy and his family traveled to New York City, New York onboard the USS General A.W. Greeley (AP-141), U. S. Navy vessel, before relocating to Cleveland, Ohio. With resilience, Andy carried the honor of his family and history, and invested such into God, his new country, and his large family.

Andy's family consists of 6 children, Anita (Kevin) Kelly, Karen Darznieks, Lisa Stelmashenko, Vitalij (Cindy) Stelmashenko, Yurii Stelmashenko, and Nicole (Reginald) Wells. As well, Andy is survived by 12 grandchildren: Andrew Wells, Zachary Wells, Clarissa Wells, Vithya Stelmashenko, Cody Stelmashenko, Nikolas Stelmashenko, Sophia Stelmashenko, Rachel Lucas, Stetson Lucas, Summer Hollembeak, Chelsea Kelly, and Donovan Kelly.

Younger Years

Andy always had a heart to share. In his younger years, Andy shared his passions at Austintown Fitch High School, in Austintown Ohio. Andy was the president of the Key Club and the president of his senior class. He was also a member of the German Club, Photography Club, and the Prom Committee. His passions did not stop there as he was also a player on the Varsity basketball team and the Varsity football team. When Andy graduated from high school, he took his skills that earned him the Industrial Award with him as he attended Youngstown State University before enlisting in the United States Air Force on January 9 ^th , 1963, making himself a Vietnam War Era Veteran.

Achievements

Andy achieved the rank of Airman First Class (Senior Airman) prior to receiving an Honorable Discharge on January 6 ^th , 1967. As a Telecommunication System Control Specialist, Andy was attached to the 1938 ^th Communications Squadron and stationed at the Ramey Air Force Base in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Andy upheld the U. S. Air Force Core Values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all that is done. Airman First Class Darznieks answered our nation's call and served with honor.

Carrying the same honor, Andy worked to make a way for himself and for others even after his extensive Air Force career. Andy later worked as a chemical and mechanical engineer for 15 years. In his work, Andy spoke about Jesus and Bible prophesy often. He was a praying man, and he loved going to church and Bible studies to practice his beliefs in his career and life.

Remembrance

Such accomplishments had to be captured and listened for as Andy exuded an easy-going, soft-spoken, and humble character wherever he went. The conversation was rarely about himself, and even more rare regarding his achievements; but instead, Andy shared love and a chance to make memories with others. As it follows, with all the accomplishments that Andy achieved, all that he overcame, and all of the memories shared, he is most remembered for his Christlike love and humble character.

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5)

A service will be held on Friday, March 25, 2022 at Houston National Cemetery at 11:15 am in Lane 2.  Airforce and Houston Honor Guard to do full honors.