Andy Prieboy (Andrew S. Prieboy) passed away on December 6th at Munster Community Hospital. He was 89 years old, a native of the Indian Harbor district of East Chicago. He graduated from Washington High School where he met Barbara Sersic, marrying her in 1954. He is survived by his two brothers: Ed and Joe Prieboy, and his twin sons, Andy and Joseph.
One of the all-time pitching greats from East Chicago, Andy Prieboy was a legend in high school baseball, throwing six no-hitters and seven one-hitters. Andy led E.C.W. to two conference championships as well as winning the American Legion Junior State Championship. He also played 3 years of varsity basketball for the Senators.
Fielding many offers after graduation in 1948, he signed with the Detroit Tigers. He advanced to Triple-A ball with the Toledo Mud Hens. He played for the Jamestown Falcons in 1949, the Flint Arrows in 1950, the Williamsport Tigers in 1952 and the Montgomery Grays and Montgomery Rebels in 1953 and 1954. During his career, he played against such baseball legends as Hank Aaron and Satchel Paige.
Leaving pro baseball in 1954, he married Barbara Sersic and moved to Los Angeles, Ca. The Prieboys eventually returned to East Chicago with their infant twin sons. Andy was encouraged to join the East Chicago Police Department and was soon elevated to Detective. During his years of service, he continued to play basketball and baseball in the Calumet Industrial League. At thirty-five, he pitched a no-hitter with legendary Sam and Henry Indians.
He was inducted into the East Chicago Sports Hall of Fame in 1987, a charter member. Andy Prieboy ranks as one of the five top pitchers to have come out of East Chicago. In 1989, East Chicago presented him with an award recognizing his many years of service to the community and citizens of East Chicago.
In 1991, Andy met Ruth Troxell with whom he shared many years of love, happiness, and big band-era dancing.
There will be a small private memorial reception for the family after the holidays.
For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper-Kevin Nordyke by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com
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