August 13, 1982 – August 13, 2025
Andrew John Birtwistle, age 43, of Largo, Florida, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on August 13, 2025.
Born on August 13, 1982, in Key West, Florida, Andrew was the beloved son of Mary Forte and John Birtwistle. From an early age, he displayed a deep curiosity about how things worked, a passion that would later guide his remarkable career in aviation and engineering.
Andrew proudly served his country for eight years in the United States Navy as an Aviation Electrician’s Mate, 3rd Class Petty Officer. His service took him to Guantanamo Bay and Pohang, South Korea, as part of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14. His dedication to duty, precision, and integrity left a lasting impression on all who served beside him.
Following his military service, Andrew continued to pursue excellence in his field. He was a Prestige Scholar at the National Aviation Academy, where he earned certifications as an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanical Technician and Avionics Technician through the Federal Aviation Administration. He was employed with Honeywell Aerospace as a Senior Engineering Technician, where he was admired for his knowledge, work ethic, and collaborative spirit.
Beyond his many accomplishments, Andrew was a devoted father and a cherished member of his family. He found his greatest pride and joy in his children, Nathaniel (13) and Hailey (5). Whether cheering them on at games or simply spending time together, Andrew’s love for his kids was boundless and unwavering.
He is survived by his loving parents, Mary Forte and John Birtwistle; his sister, Michelle Zitnick (Stephen); his nephew, Anthony; his niece, Zoe; his children, Nathaniel and Hailey, as well as the mother of his children, Lisa Corney; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who will remember his humor, warmth, and loyalty.
He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Tom Forte, whose memory Andrew carried with deep respect.
Andrew had a deep love for sports, especially cheering on the Miami Heat and the Miami Hurricanes. But above all else, he valued family, service, and the time he shared with those he loved.
His presence was a gift to those who knew him, and his legacy will live on in his children and in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to call him family or friend.
A memorial service will be held on September 20th at 1pm at Saint David’s Catholic Church, 3900 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33328 with Military honors to follow at Fred Hunter’s Hollywood Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
I have great memories of our time together.
I hope you find peace in the afterlife my friend.
Dear Andrew, may you rest in eternal peace. You made our 2023 Florida holiday very special. We will ensure your memory lives on through Nathan and Hailey.
We love you.
Rest now.
Ross and Tracey Mitchell xxx
A man of honor and a father of love.
Although the physical distance did not allow visits often, FL, VA, GA, CT, MA, my nephew Andrew was a highly respected part of the Birtwistle family. Son of my brother John and wife Mary, his excellence in military service, followed by his career in engineering, which is from a line of family tradition, was indeed his gift in a life cut short. He will be missed by all for what he could have accomplished. May he rest in peace!