Andrew Sandalakis

Andrew Manousos Sandalakis
Andrew Sandalakis, 87 years old, passed away peacefully with his family by his bedside on November 19, 2019.

Born on December 5th, 1931 to Manousos Sandalakis and Zamvia Moustakas. Andrew grew up on the Greek island of Milos in the Aegean Sea. At the age of 15, he joined the Greek Royal Airforce. Then, as was the family tradition, he joined the oceangoing Merchant Marines, becoming Third and Second Mate. In 1956 while his ship was docked in New York City, Andrew met his future wife, Aspasia Papadatos, at his aunt's Valentine's Day party. Their marriage took place on October 20th, 1957. Andrew then gave up the sea to establish a home with his wife and children. Andrew was very proud to be an American citizen and believed that hard work is the key to success. After involvement in various businesses, the family left New York City for a better environment in upstate New York, first in Syracuse, then Glens Falls, Wilton, and finally Clifton Park. Andrew established the Saratoga Army Navy Surplus store and operated it with the assistance of his wife from 1976 until 1996. During retirement, they spent the winters in Dunedin, Florida, until sickness forced them to root in Clifton Park. Andrew was an active member of St. Sophia's Greek Orthodox Church and loved volunteering at their festivals each year. He was a Life Time member of the Ahepa men's club for over 50 years. In 2012, he proudly became Ahepan of the Year. Andrew's greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Aspasia (Bessie) Sandalakis, three children, Manny Sandalakis, Regina Leach (James), Ted Sandalakis, and three grandsons, Andrew (Surabhi) Leach, John Leach and Eric Leach, as well as nephews and cousins in Greece.
The Sandalakis Family want to acknowledge and thank the wonderful caregivers Anacita, Anitta, Ginger, and Judith, the Hospice professionals for their expert caregiving, and the Coburg Village staff for their thoughtful support.

Calling hours will be Friday, November 22nd at 11 am, followed by a 12 noon funeral service at St. Sophia's Greek Orthodox Church in Albany, New York.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Andrew's memory to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7017, Merrifield, VA 22116 or to St. Sophia's Greek Orthodox Church, 440 Whitehall Road, Albany, NY 12208.