Andrea Jane Kaskus, a faithful partner, devoted daughter, loving sister, favorite aunt, cherished friend, compassionate educator, and lifelong animal lover passed away on July 28, 2023 at Saint Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. She touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know her. Andrea was born on March 7, 1953 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. The daughter of Andrew Kaskus, Jr. and Helen Gula Kaskus, she graduated from Tunkhannock Area High School in 1971 and Indiana State University in 1975, where she studied English and Education.
Andrea served the Vincennes community as a beloved junior high and high school teacher and class sponsor for 35 years, influencing and touching the lives of thousands of students. Everywhere Andrea went in town, you could always count on someone to say, “Hi Ms. Kaskus!” and for Andrea to remember their names, the particulars of their lives, and fond memories from teaching them.
Andrea fostered numerous friendships that endured throughout her lifetime. Her warm-hearted and caring nature endeared her to everyone she met, and she had a unique ability to make all people feel valued and cherished. Whether it was sharing laughter or offering a listening ear during difficult times, all of Andrea’s friendships were truly a testament to her genuine character and love.
Andrea and her late partner of 35 years, Margaret McGiffen, shared a rich and vibrant life together. Their home was a gathering place for their friends and family, especially at Christmas. It was made complete by their dogs, Gabby and Poppy, and cat, Mr. Sheffield. She and Margaret were actively involved in the Harmony Society, Vincennes Moose Lodge, and Vincennes Pet Port.
Survivors include her brother, Ronald, of Tunkhannock, PA (Donna); niece, Nicole Cadwalader, of Lancaster, PA (Jason); niece, Gena Beky, of Macungie, PA (Andrew), and great nephews and nieces, Hayden, Elisabeth, and Lauren Cadwalader; Michael and Matthew Beky. Also included are Margaret’s sister, Lucy Martindale of Durham, NC (Al); nieces, Beth Jordan of Olathe, KS (John), Julie Clark of Olathe KS (Bob), Chris Magruder of Vincennes, IN (Josh), Meredith Martindale Oakes of Durham, NC (Michael); nephews, Jeff Garrard of Evansville, IN (Sheri), Duke McGiffen of Vincennes, IN (Richelle), Phil Martindale of Durham, NC; and many great nieces, great nephews, great-great nieces, and great-great nephews. Andrea was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Helen Kaskus, and her partner, Margaret McGiffen. The family would like to extend its gratitude to Georgetta Gaines who diligently cared for Margaret and Andrea over the last two years.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 12 from 12-3 p.m. with a service at 3:00 p.m. at the Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home in Vincennes. Immediately following the service, family and friends are invited to a celebration of life reception at the Harmony Society, 111 North Second Street, Vincennes. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in honor of Andrea to Vincennes Animal Shelter (Pet Port), Riley Children’s Foundation of Indianapolis, or your favorite charity.