Andrew Akindele

Andrew was born on January 16, 1963, in the United Kingdom. Originally from Nigeria, Andrew’s family moved back to Nigeria where he attended the Comprehensive High School in Aiyetoro in the South-Western part of Nigeria. Where his father worked as a Telecommunications Executive at Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL).

Andrew, his siblings, and his Mother, relocated to the United States where he graduated (with a BS in Computer Science) from The City College of New York in 1984. He obtained an MBA in Information Systems, from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, while working as a Systems Analyst for The Proctor and Gamble Company.

After a brief stint as a computer programmer with McAlpin’s in Cincinnati, Andrew relocated to Columbus, Ohio and got married. Through this union, his son Justin was born. In November 1994, he began working at the State of Ohio's Department of Taxation. He would have celebrated his 30 years with the State of Ohio in November.

Andrew's thirst for knowledge made him a subject matter expert on many topics, especially politics and religion. He hosted epic political, sports, and world event parties at his home where he was surrounded by a village of family and friends all coming together to passionately discuss their different points of view or enjoy a game of chess or checkers.

Before his Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, Andrew could be described as a social, outgoing person who was constantly in motion – logging over 40,000 miles on his vehicles annually and wearing out shoes with his constant pacing. However, in 2008, he started having difficulty walking. He saw many physicians – each with a different diagnosis for his condition. However, when a total stranger saw him walking in a grocery store, he exclaimed “Oh, you have MS my sister has it, and that’s how she walks” his life changed forever.

Andrew was officially diagnosed with MS in 2012 and has been in a wheelchair since 2014. Despite the debilitating effects of this disease – totally robbing him of mobility and eventually taking his life - Andrew was able to continue working and impacting many people in positive ways while

maintaining his solid religious foundation and faith. Andrew lost his battle with MS and gained his wings on October 21, 2024. His perseverance is truly a testament.

Andrew is predeceased by his parents Engr. Festus Harrison Oluwande Akindele (Father) and Dr. Taiwo Adedayo Akindele (Mother).

He leaves to cherish: his son Justin A. Akindele of Cincinnati, Ohio, stepson Jordan L. Flowers of Columbus, Ohio, and Janice M. Flowers, Esq. (mother of Justin and Jordan).

His siblings: Ayorinde Oladapo Alex Akindele, Taiwo Akindele (Carrie), Kehinde Akindele-Stewart (Sean), and Idowu Akindele (Latrell).

Uncle: John Akindele; Aunts: Abeni Akindele, Dr. Alaba A. Kalejaiye, and Major[rtd] Morandeum Nwankpele.

Nephews and Nieces: Ayo Moreland, Alexis Phillips, William Akindele, Michael Akindele, and Lexis Mvambi.

Special friends: William Moses, Steven Jennings, Lawrence Herer and a host of other relatives, family, friends and caregivers.

Funeral Service will be held November 14, 2024, at Diehl-Whittaker, 1370 E. Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205. The family will receive visitors at noon. Service begins at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Ohio Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in Andrew’s honor.

23rd Psalm

A Psalm of David

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restored my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointest my

Head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all

the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Amen

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm with a Funeral Service immediately following at Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service, 1370 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205.

To leave a message of condolence please visit his tribute page.