Andrew W. Marks ’70

One of our fine scholar-athletes whose skills were noted by his undergrad nickname of “Pelé,” Andy died surrounded by his family in his longtime Columbus, Ga., home April 11, 2024.

He came to us as a star athlete from Andover. A magna cum laude history scholar, his thesis was written on the 1959 steel strike. His skill in varsity soccer was accompanied by being athletic chair at Cap and Gown, as well as being a proselytizer for Iron City from his beloved Pittsburgh home.

In 1981, Andy and his family made the momentous move from Pittsburgh to Columbus, where he worked for 12 years for Hardaway Construction, then 15 years for Total Systems before retiring as group executive in 2008. To no one’s surprise, he became a pillar of the community, serving in multiple roles at his church, the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and a rainbow of other groups. His principal devotion was to St. Luke School, where he served on the trustees and in financial positions for decades.

First and foremost a devoted family man, Andy is survived by his wife and soulmate of 53 years, Barbara; children Buffy Swinehart, Ashley Beard, and Andy Marks Jr.; and five grandsons. His warmth, humor and unflagging care for others continue to serve them well, and to inspire us.