Andrew J. Solomon Jr.

Solomon – Andrew J. Jr., 77, of Vinco, went to be with the Lord on October 7, 2024, at home. Born on July 2, 1947, in Johnstown, son of Andrew J. Sr. and Bernice H. (Rykala) Solomon. Preceded in death by his parents and son, Michael J. Solomon. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Katharine L. (Umbach) Solomon; son, Andrew G. (Gina) Solomon, New Richmond, WI; grandchildren, Andrew “Drew”, Aubrey, and Aiden; sister, Paulette M. Solomon, Franklin Borough. Andy was a 1965 graduate of Franklin High School. He also graduated from IUP earning his bachelor’s degree in Geography and Social Studies and a master’s degree. Andy retired from Conemaugh Valley High School, where he was employed as Social Studies Teacher for 34 years and as the school’s Athletic Director for 24 years. He also served as a football and basketball coach for several years. He was a lifetime member of the Franklin Borough and East Conemaugh Volunteer Fire Companies. He was a member of the Church of the Transfiguration. Andy joined the Knights of Columbus Council #467 in 1987. Throughout his 37 years as a Knight, he held the following Council positions, Recorder, Deputy Grand Knight, Grand Knight (1991-1993). Council #467 received the Star Council award while he was Grand Knight. He also served Council #467 on the Columbian Home Association for many years. Andy served the Central East Caucus, holding all four regional offices for eight years. He was a district deputy for 6 years starting in 2000 and served as Program Chairman Central East. Andy belonged to the Knights of Columbus All Saints Assembly 0954 in Johnstown and was an active member of the Color Corps, He served as Scribe, Pilot, Captain, Faithful Navigator, Admiral, and Trustee. He was the Chairman of Johnstown’s Annual Columbus Day Parade that was organized by the All-Saints Assembly. Andy served as State Warden for the Pennsylvania State Council from (2010-2012). He served on the Seminarian Endowment Committee Board of Directors. In 2016 Andy was awarded the Prince Gallitzin Cross from the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown in recognition of his service to the Church. For several years, Andy served as Finance Committee Chairman for the Church of the Transfiguration, He was very active in Parish activities for his church and throughout the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese. Friends will be received from 1-8 p.m. Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Baker-Harris Funeral Chapel, 229-231 First Street, Conemaugh, where Vigil Service will be held. During the visitation, the Knights of Columbus All Saints Assembly will stand guard from 6 to 8 p.m. and the Knights of Columbus Council #467 will say the rosary at 6:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, October 14, 2024, at Church of the Transfiguration, with Rev. Timothy Harris T.O.R. Committal, Grandview Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions to Seminarian Endowment Fund, 8 Entrance Drive, Johnstown PA 15905 in memory of Andrew J. Solomon Jr. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com .