Andrew "Lefty" Palm

Andrew A. “Lefty” Palm, 74, of Estero, FL passed away peacefully on Friday, February 21, 2014 at his residence with his family by his side. Lefty, formerly of N. Huntington, PA, moved to Bonita Springs, FL in 2003 before relocating to Estero in 2009. He was born July 10, 1939 in McKeesport, PA, son of the late Anthony and Helen (Resco) Palm. He graduated from Penn State McKeesport Campus. Lefty became a member of the United Steel Workers of America Union while he worked in McKeesport at Enamel Products Co., now Precoat Metals, as the union steward, where he eventually became president of the plant’s local union. He continued to rise through the USWA’s ranks. Mr. Palm served four full terms as a district director of the USWA in Pennsylvania. During his time as district director for the USWA, this was comprised not only of the steelworker industry, but included a variety of occupations such as grocery workers, food service employees, teachers, etc., Lefty Palm was especially recognized as the lead contract negotiator for the USWA with the U.S. Steel Corp. and other numerous steelmakers. He was a prominent figure who rebuked steel imports and corporate concessions at a time when employers were pressing the union for steep givebacks and layoffs were rampant. Throughout his career Lefty was well respected by many political figures for his leadership and fairness to the union and the companies. Additionally, Congressional leaders consistently sought his political opinions and friendship. He retired in 2005 as the International Vice President of the United Steelworkers Union. Lefty was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and long-time season ticket holder. He loved dining, dancing and celebrating life to the fullest with family and friends. Lefty was also the consummate outdoorsman, who enjoyed nature and hunting. He is survived by his loving wife, Kimberly (Jubak) Palm; children, Andrea Palm of PA, Laurie (Michael) Sedota of Brownsville, PA, Nathan Rojohn of Greensburg, PA, Gavin Rojohn of Harrison City, PA; sister, Nancy (James) McConnell of White Oak, PA; grandson, Michael Anthony Sedota; sister-in-laws, Connie (Bill) Solomon of Verona, PA, Helen Malloy of Huntington Beach, CA, Pat (Ardo) Lombardo of McKeesport, PA; brother-in-laws, Steve (Shawn) Mikulas of Homosassa, FL, Richard (Jane) Jubak of Port Greenwich, CA; loyal dogs, Geronimo and Louie, cat, Sarah; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Anthony Thomas Palm in 2009 and sister, Audrey Palm. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 26, 2014 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM and 6:00 – 8:00 PM and on Thursday, February 27, 2014 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM at Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home, 28300 Tamiami Trail So., Bonita Springs, FL 34134. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at Our Lady of Lady Light Church, 19680 Cypress View Dr., Ft. Myers, FL 33967. Additional services will be held in Pittsburgh, PA at a later date to be announced. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home.

Andrew "Lefty" Palm

July 10, 1939 - February 21, 2014