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WEIRTON -- The city of Weirton is mourning the loss of a former mayor and public service, following the death of Michael Andochick.
Andochick, who served as mayor between 1971 and 1979, died Tuesday at the age of 90. Prior to his two terms in the city's highest elected office, he served as a member of Weirton Council, and, through the years, has volunteered with several area boards and organizations.
In a statement issued Thursday morning, Mayor Harold Miller expressed his condolences, and looked back at his own relationship with Andochick.
"We developed a friendship when we both worked at Weirton Steel. Our friendship grew as we shared a common interest and passion in the development and growth of the Hancock County Sheltered Workshop," Miller said.
In addition to his involvement in local politics, Andochick served 32 years on the board of directors for the Hancock County Sheltered Workshop, including 10 years as president.
He was involved in the construction of Greenbrier Manor, a residential complex for adult handicapped individuals capable of independent living, and in the development of the laundry facility at the Hancock County Sheltered Workshop.
Andochick served several years with the Weirton Park Board, helping to facilitate the development of a steam pipeline from Weirton Steel Corp., which provided heat for both the Millsop Community Center and the Mary H. Weir Public Library.
For 10 years, he was part of the Salvation Army's board of directors.
"Mike also supported our local schools and churches. He was a great leader who truly made an impact in our community and touched the lives of many," Miller said. "I was blessed to know him as a friend and will miss him greatly."
Andochick was among five honorees named into the Weirton Hall of Fame in 2015, inducted under the category of public service.
During that year's dinner, Andochick encouraged area residents to find ways to give back to their community
"I don't think people realize how many hours are put in by volunteers," he said.
Born Nov. 28, 1930 in McKeesport, Pa., to the late Michael and Ann Andochick, his family moved to Weirton when he was 9 years old and his father began working at Weirton Steel.
Andochick was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, JoAnn Fullen Andochick and grandson Michael Marcus.
He is survived by daughters Karen Andochick of Bradenton, Fla., Shelly Haught of Brecksville, Ohio, Nancy Marcus of Charleston, W.Va, Jayne Kline of Davidson, N.C., Jo Ann Low of Sterling, Va. and Stephanie Zagula of Weirton; as well as 12 grandchildren.