Andrew Bambrick, known to many as Drew, passed away April 22, 2026, at the age of 67, leaving behind a life marked by hard work, loyalty and a warm, friendly spirit that touched the hearts of family and friends alike.
Born Nov. 15, 1958, in Newark, Drew was a son of the late Andrew and Barbara Fink. He was raised in Belleville, where he met the love of his life, Carol. Their shared journey began there and continued as they built a home together in Belford in 1990 before settling in Middletown in 1999.
Drew devoted much of his life to honest labor and steady commitment. He was a warehouse worker and a proud member of ILA Union 1478. He spent 30 years working for Distribution Auto Services at Port Elizabeth, where he was respected for his dedication and reliability until his retirement five years ago.
Those who knew Drew will remember him as a friendly man who enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and the company of others. He loved sports and was an avid Yankees fan, while also cheering for the Eagles and the Jets. For many years, he belonged to a bowling league in Belleville, where he enjoyed both the competition and the camaraderie. He especially loved being on the water, spending time on his boat, fishing and crabbing whenever he could.
Music was also a constant part of his life, and he could often be heard singing or humming a tune. He also enjoyed playing cards with his friends and with Carol, sharing many good times and lasting memories.
Drew is survived by his wife of 36 years, Carol Bambrick, and their three grandchildren, Marissa Putney, Gina Abrusia and Brandy MacLeod, along with two great-grandchildren, Gianna Abrusia and Thomas Calabrese. He also leaves behind his brother, David Bambrick, his sister, Barbara Spanton, and several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.
He was predeceased by his stepchildren, Thomas Abrusia and Andrea MacLeod, as well as his siblings, James Bambrick, Robert Bambrick, Andrea Bambrick and Kelly Giordano. Their memories, along with Drew’s, remain woven into the lives of those who loved them.
Drew will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his strong work ethic, and the easy kindness he showed to others. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and companionship to those around him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date.
The article originally appeared in the April 30 – May 6, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
