Andrea Mar Harkins

Andrea Mar Harkins

December 27, 1945 - November 21, 2025

Born at the end of 1945, I always claimed to be the first "Baby Boomer". Born in Squirrel Hill to loving parents, Rosalie and Jack Mar, I made friends for a lifetime at Taylor Allderdice High School. After attending Penn State and the University of Pittsburgh, I graduated in 1967 with two teaching degrees. As the "first baby boomer", it was not difficult to get a teaching job in the Pittsburgh Public Schools at that time. From teaching, I moved into Educational Research at Pitt.

But my evolving interests led me to marketing research and understanding Consumer Behavior.

With advanced degrees from Duquesne and Pitt, I went on to a career that spanned working for marketing research companies, MSA and M/A/R/C, to working directly with manufacturers of consumer products and pharmaceuticals, Heinz and GlaxoSmithKline. Along the way, I was helped enormously by mentors like Gae Leinhardt and Pat Flannery. I loved what I did and the many great friendships it spawned.

In retirement, I enjoyed rewarding experiences and relationships through volunteering with SouthWest Meals on Wheels, the Crafton Food Pantry, and the Rosslyn Farms Community.

But, most fortunate of all, I was married to the most loving husband and best friend anyone could hope for. Thanks, Dan, for making me laugh, for taking care of me, and for making a house the most beautiful home ever. Thanks for being my rock, my teacher, my hero.

Through the years, I was also lucky to have great friends (you know who you are), loving family and in-laws, exceptional mentors, a sweet dog, and lots of love. Thanks to all who contributed to a full and fulfilling life.

Survived by my wonderful husband, Daniel Harkins and his sisters, Rosemary and Maureen, brother Bob, and nieces and nephews. Also survived by my brother, Larry, and sister-in-law Donna Mar, cousins and friends.

Donations may be made to Southwest Meals on Wheels, Goodwill Manor, 601 McMillen St., Bridgeville PA 15017.

Party hearty and drink the good wine first.

Arrangements entrusted to Ball Funeral Chapel, Inc.

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