Andrew Sivak

Andrew Sivak, age 94, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, at the Clyde E. Lassen Veterans' Nursing Home in St. Augustine, Florida, one day before his 95th birthday. Born on May 31, 1931, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Andrew was the son of Andrew and Isabelle (Paragh) Sivak. He was a lifelong learner whose intellectual curiosity, dedication to service, and love of music, family, and community defined his remarkable life. Andrew attended Rutgers University, where he earned a Ph.D. in Life Science. During his time at Rutgers, he was an active member of the Rutgers Glee Club and proudly served as an officer of the organization. To help support himself while attending college, he played the organ at a local Episcopal church, sharing his musical talents with the congregation. Following his education, Andrew honorably served his country in the United States Navy. He later enjoyed a professional career as a consultant with Arthur D. Little. He also served as the Chief Executive Officer of a nonprofit organization and shared his knowledge and expertise as a professor at New York University. Throughout his career, he authored numerous research publications. Andrew's interests and accomplishments extended far beyond his professional life. A gifted musician, he built his own harpsichord in 1964, an achievement that reflected both his craftsmanship and love of music. He and his wife spent twenty summers at the Chautauqua Institute, in Chautauqua, New York, where treasured family memories were created and where he was honored to sing with the Chautauqua Motet Choir. After retiring, Andrew remained deeply involved in his community. He volunteered at the World Golf Hall of Fame and generously assisted others through volunteer tax preparation services. Never one to stop learning, he also earned his real estate license. Andrew had a passion for travel and enjoyed exploring new places throughout his life. He was an avid tennis player, an experienced sailor sailing up the east coast on a 39’ Beneteau sail boat with his wife, a devoted reader, and faithfully completed the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle each week. His sharp mind, curiosity, and enthusiasm for learning remained with him throughout his life. Andrew is survived by his wife of 32 years, Joyce Speers-Sivak; son, Tom (Tracy) Sivak; stepchildren, Rob (Michelle) Speers and Heather Speers Daw; and his granddaughters, Tara and Nicole Sivak. He was preceded in death by his son, Paul Sivak and Andrew’s brother Robert Sivak.. Andrew will be remembered for his intelligence, generosity, sense of purpose, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him.

Andrew Sivak

May 31, 1931 - May 30, 2026