Obituary of Andrew J. Dudka

Mr. Andrew J. Dudka, 88, of State Highway 30, Amsterdam, NY died peacefully on Saturday, February 13, 2010 following a short illness. Born on November 26, 1921 he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary Szowalk Dudka. A lifelong area resident, Andrew was educated locally and served with the United States Army. Upon his honorable discharge he returned to Amsterdam and opened Dudka?s Garage Inc. in 1949 situated at 17 Carmichael Street. Dudka?s Garage has been noted for their quality service, but it most recognized for the VW Bug on the top of the chimney on the west end of the city. A staple of the City of Amsterdam, the garage continues to serve the residents of Montgomery and Fulton Counties under the direction of Andrew?s son, Gary. Mr. Dudka was also a part owner of the Diamond Creek Stables in Saratoga and was a member of the John J. Wyszomirski Post 701 American Legion. He was of the Roman Catholic faith and was a devout parishioner of St. Mary?s Roman Catholic Church. He also was a member and officer of the Perth Businessmen?s Association for a time. On August 1, 1942 he was united in marriage to the former Frances Kondart. That union lasted 62 years until her passing on October 19, 2004. He was also predeceased by his grandson, Gary R. Dudka, Jr.; his daughter in law, Geraldine J. Dudka; and siblings, Stephen Dudka, Sr., Stella Levendowski and Sophie Dudka. Survivors include his son, Gary R. Dudka, Sr. of Amsterdam; three grandsons, Mark D. Dudka of Albany, NY, Paul C. Laurie Dudka of Saratoga, NY, and Scott A. Dudka of Amsterdam; several great grandchildren and nieces and nephews. At Mr. Dudka?s request there are no funeral services. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 from 4 until 7p.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, where his arrangements have been entrusted. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. In place of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Mary?s Church Memorial Fund, 156 East Main Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010 or the American Heart Association, 440 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205.