



1951
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2023

Andrew James (Jim) Puza Sr., 71, of Laveen Arizona, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and dogs on Sept. 15th at home after a long illness. Born and raised in Hazleton, PA., he was the son of the late Elizabeth and Andrew Puza. He attended schools in West Hazleton and graduated in 1974 with a BS degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. He was a member of the fraternity Sigma Alpha Mu and still to this day is lifelong “brothers” with members of the fraternity. While at Drexel he participated in a work study program that resulted in a 20+ year career with Sandvik. Before concluding his career with Sandvik, he held the position of Vice President, and President of PEXCO, a subsidiary of Sandvik on the same property in Waverly, PA. In 1994, Jim retired to fulfill his dream of moving to Arizona and having his own company with his wife, Mary Kay. He grew a small truck fleet business with progressive profitability over 7 years. He topped off his career in public service as Director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army. After 42 years of professional life, Jim retired to his home in Laveen to enjoy retirement with his wife, family, and 2 dogs. He enjoyed spending his free time on the air as a ham radio operator, AE7JP, his hobby since he was a young boy. Surviving Jim is his wife of over 44 years, Mary Kay and his four children, Kimberly Korgeski (John), Candice Monahan (Martin), Stephanie Lueras (Bob), and Andrew James Puza Jr. He is also survived by several grandchildren, Darren Benore, James Listanski (Bill), Kaylie Shygelski, Kaitlin Korgeski, Sarah Shykelski, and Ashley Korgeski. He is also survived by his sister Mary Beth Michos, niece and Goddaughter Carrie Anne Mosley (Matt), and Grandniece Elizabeth. Jim also leaves behind his two beloved dogs, rescued over 10 years ago, Biscuit and Cookie. A celebration of life will be held at New Covenant Lutheran Church, Scottsdale on Saturday, October 7th at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers. memorial contributions may be made to the United Phoenix Firefighter Charities, in honor and gratitude to the Phoenix firefighters who responded to the Puza home on several occasions to assist Jim. https://phxffcharities.org/ click the Donate tab You may also contribute to New Covenant Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.