KATRINA BOGUSKI
Staff Reporter
Those who knew Andy Gajda remember him fondly as a person who lived life to the fullest. Many will remember him as ‘the Pickle Guy’ from local farmers markets and still others will recall him for the active role he played in the arts and cultural life of the Madawaska Valley. Recently Andy’s estate left a generous donation to the Madawaska Gardening Club, formerly known as the Madawaska Valley Horticultural Society. The intent of his donation was to help beautify the local area which had been such an important part of his life.
Many people have moved to the Valley since Andy’s untimely death in the fall of 2012. It seems fitting to recall his legacy as much for those who may not have met him, as it does for those who have many cherished memories of his contributions to our world.
The Valley Gazette reached out to a few of Andy’s friends, and to his brother-in-law Edwin Echavarry in order to learn a bit more about this man who brought such vibrancy to local life.
Edwin said, “Andy was a larger-than-life individual who was a great conversationalist and had the uncanny facility to know about every subject imaginable.” According to friends, many of these conversations took place over dinners at Andy’s farm in Killaloe. The parties were events to remember and guests came from all walks of life. Other friends also recalled Andy’s sense of humour and storytelling ability.
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