Andrew J. Centofanti, 76, of Sturgis, South Dakota, passed away on July 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Andy was born on November 1, 1949, in Youngstown, Ohio, son of Guerino Centofanti and Josephine Ciolli Centofanti. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, first responder, outdoorsman, and loyal friend.

For 44 years, Andy shared a loving partnership with his wife Gloria Longenecker Centofanti. Together, they built a life grounded in love, family, hard work, and shared purpose. Their home—designed and built by Andy and Gloria together—was one of his great joys. He was the proud father of Dustin Centofanti (m. Molly Fitzpatrick Centofanti) of Evergreen, Colorado, and grandfather of two granddaughters, Rose and Grace, who dearly loved their “Grampy.”

Prior to relocating to the Black Hills in 2006, Andy served his community for 29 years as a first responder with Tucson Fire Department and Rural Metro Fire Department. He also served in the Army National Guard.

A passionate outdoorsman and marksman, he loved many forms of shooting sports, precision reloading, and hunting big game, prairie dogs, and birds, especially with his beloved dog, Ford. He was happiest when outdoors, pursuing activities he loved, and sharing stories with those around him.

To know Andy was to know he never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, at any time, often resulting in long-term friendships. He was known for speaking his mind, telling it exactly as he saw it, and bringing a directness that was unmistakenly his own. Beneath that candid exterior was a man who loved God, country, and family, and demonstrated enduring devotion to his family and friends.

A Memorial Service in Andy’s honor will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, 2:00 pm, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel, 1235 Junction Avenue, Sturgis, SD.  A reception will be held at the Centofanti home following the memorial service. Family and friends are invited to join us at 4:00 p.m. for light refreshments and fellowship as we honor and remember Andy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to The NRA Whittington Center, Raton, New Mexico, or Wounded Warrior Project.

“Andy”, “Dad”, and “Grampy” will be deeply missed, and lovingly and laughingly remembered by his family and friends.