Birth date: Apr 9, 1952 Death date: Nov 15, 2012
Andrew J. Tartella was born April 9, 1952 in Scranton, PA, and passed away November 15, 2012 in Lakewood, WA. He served in the U.S. Army from 1981-1984 and was stationed at Fort Lewis, WA. Andrew graduated from West Scranton H.S. Read Obituary
Government bureaucracy is what it is. Some of it is efficient and useful for bringing good things to the public, some of it is ugly and harmful. Andrew, you made it your business to pay attention to what was happening in your agency. You were able to protect people from some of the worst of the bad stuff. Absorbing toxic things so they don't splash on others isn't safe - no wonder you died young. Funny, time is supposed to take away the sting, but as days pass, we miss you more. Call me delusional, but I look at things and think, "I bet this wouldn't happen if Andrew were still here". Your co-workers got it, but those you worked for had no clue how generous and truly gifted you were, and how valuable your contribution was. Thank you so much for what you accomplished.
Portland Oregonian 11/15/2013 In Memoriam, Andrew Tartella
Tartella, Andrew 60 April 09, 1952 Nov. 15, 2012 Expert Medicare teacher, valued friend, we miss you.
Sharing an e-mail from Rod, a friend and colleague of Andrew's:
Hello All:
I wanted to let the office know I attended and presented at a Medicare outreach event in Chelan, WA yesterday afternoon (drove over and back in one day; not recommended). Andrew T. used to present at the annual Law Enforcement Officer and Firefighter Retiree Conference for a number of years. His presence was definitely missed yesterday . The conference leaders passed out copies of his obituary from the local Tacoma newspaper last November, and a moment of silence was held for him before I spoke. A number of folks approached me after the presentation to express their sorrow and condolences to Region 10. MANY knew Andrew and appreciated his good work. I told them Andrew’s spirit still looms large here in Region 10.
I also told them at the start of my remarks that it was typical of Andrew to get top billing at an event even though he is occupying a different universe now. That seemed to cheer the crowd up a lot. 100 or so were in attendance.
All in all this was a good gesture in remembrance of a good man and a remarkable colleague.
Rod H.
I am very sorry to hear about this great loss. He was a very kind man and we will miss seeing him at the Leoff I Conference. Sending outr thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones. He will be greatly missed!
Anyone who has not yet discovered the ABCD's of Medicare series starring Andrew on YouTube really needs to watch him at work. Medicare education? Nobody did it better! Paste this address into your browser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmrUhZp8_t4
