It's hard to believe that it could, but on October 18 ^th the year 2020 got extremely gloomier and more depressing than it already was.  Amidst the calamity all around us, the gentle, witty, insightful, and caring warrior, Andrew David Katka, quietly left us.  Andrew's parents, Dan and Kim (Carbon) Katka of San Antonio, had the privilege of welcoming him into their lives on March 18, 1993.  At the young age of 27 Andrew is gone too soon.

Andrew was born with Muscular Dystrophy and was never able to walk.  From a young age he courageously rolled through life in a motorized wheelchair.  Due to his many other medical maladies he underwent nearly 100 surgeries and procedures.  In 1998 after being told his life expectancy was only six months he was selected for an experimental surgery to correct his severe thoracic cage deformity that was damaging his pulmonary function.  His brave journey captured national attention in USA Today and numerous other news publications as the procedure received FDA approval.  Because of his drive and resiliency, his life journey was featured on numerous Muscular Dystrophy Labor Day Telethons as well.  Through all of his medical issues Andrew never complained or gave into self-pity.  He had a constant positive attitude and always put others before himself.

Andrew made a difference in other's lives.  He was fiercely compassionate and giving.  As a young boy he would often go to downtown San Antonio to help feed the homeless and less fortunate families.  During the holidays he loved to see the joy on the faces of children living in an orphanage when he surprised them with numerous Christmas gifts.  When he was older he also enjoyed giving back to the community by volunteering his time working at the San Antonio Food Bank.

Even though he had severe physical disabilities Andrew was determined to live life to the fullest.   When he was younger he enjoyed going to summer camp every year and was so adored by the other campers and staff he was voted "Most Outstanding Camper" for his friendly spirit, determination, and positive attitude.  A couple of his favorite activities were wheelchair soccer and hockey.  He cruised past his competitors in track and field events in the Special Olympics earning copious gold and silver medals.  As a member of the Boy Scouts he earned many awards and badges and especially enjoyed participating in pinewood derby car races.  While he was in junior high and high school at Medina Valley he loved playing percussion instruments in the "pit" with his bandmates and competed in multiple band competitions.  When he graduated from Medina Valley High School in 2012 his popularity was evident when a crowded Panther Stadium stood to their feet in roaring applause as he crossed the stage to receive his diploma.

Andrew's voice was soft and he was a quiet man of few words, but he lived life loudly through his actions.  He was a fighter.  No matter what obstacles came his way he fought through them with grace, grit, and tenacious resolve.  He was humble and self-deprecating.  He never thought himself more important than another no matter who they were and he was the first to poke fun at himself, particularly his own disabilities.  He was kind and considerate.  While hospitalized for weeks and months at a time, medical staff were taken by his politeness, pleasant demeanor, and respectfulness he showed even when in immense pain or discomfort.  He was intuitive and disarming.  People felt comfortable talking to him about their life issues because he always took time to intently listen and provide advice blended with positivity and hope.  Lastly, he was lighthearted and fun!  Those who had the privilege to know him will miss his mischievous grin, and good-natured teasing with the perfect blend of gentle sarcasm and playful humor.  He didn't have a boisterous laugh, but it was infectious.  Andrew's life was the true definition of inspiration.

Andrew's twin brother and best friend, Jordan Katka, passed away on March 23, 2019.  Together, they were a force that changed lives.  Jordan also had Muscular Dystrophy, was confined to a wheelchair, and had numerous medical issues.  When they were little boys his parents would overhear them talking about running and playing tag together when they go to heaven.  Andrew often wept intensely for missing Jordan so much and now they're together again weeping with joy and playing tag.  In death, as in life, they will continue to impact others like few have.  They lived life the way we all should.

Andrew leaves behind heartbroken parents Dan and Kim Katka of San Antonio, older brother Joshua (Maria) of Thorton, CO, younger sister Naomi (DeLa) Antunes of Albuquerque, NM, and younger sister Hannah Katka of San Antonio, grandparents Paul and Sharon Carbon of Highbridge, WI, and his grandmother Margaret Katka of Mellen, WI.  He was preceded in death by his grandfather Wayne Katka and twin brother Jordan Katka.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:30pm on Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at Vista Community Church of Castroville.  A reception will follow at the Katka home.

Vista Community Church, 3159 FM 471, Castroville, TX 78009