Drew Katona

Senior Airman Andrew Robert Katona III, affectionately known as Drew, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, August 23, 2022 at the young age of 22. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on Tuesday, June 27, 2000 to Andrew Robert and Kristina Marie (nee Yaegel) Katona, Jr.

From a young age, Drew found pure enjoyment making others smile. He loved his family and close friends. He never missed an opportunity to say I Love You or give a kiss/hug when saying goodbye. He loved to make people smile or would say some of the craziest things, all for the shock value. A Lakota East High School 2018 graduate, Drew knew when it was time to buckle down and be serious. He was an excellent student but more importantly a leader through both the Wrestling and Football teams he was a part of. As a student at University of Cincinnati, Drew enlisted in the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country, quietly earning the Squadron Airmen of the Quarter and 2021 Squadron Airmen of the Year awards. During this time, he never lost sight of his goal and earned his Bachelors of Criminal Justice Degree in 2022, graduating Cum Laude. Drew's uplifting personality was contagious leaving a wave of laughter and smiles anywhere he went.

Drew was welcomed into Heaven by Andrew Robert Katona, Sr., his paternal grandfather. These two were cut from the same cloth and shared many adventures together.

Drew is survived by: parents, Andy and Kristina Katona; siblings, Justin Katona, Jackson Katona, and Samantha Katona; maternal grandparents, Dennis and Helen (nee Burns) Yaegel; paternal grandmother, Carma Sue Hamilton; aunt, Theresa Yaegel; and many loving friends he considered family.

Visitation will be Sunday, August 28, 2022 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, Ohio 45040. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, August 29, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Susanna Catholic Church, 616 Reading Road, Mason, Ohio 45040.

Memories of Drew will always make you smile first, please do not send flowers. The family would appreciate those dollars helping others. Donations may be directed to the University of Cincinnati Foundation . "Andrew's experience in the Air Force played a very important role in his life. His military service reflected his tremendous work ethic and willingness to invest in a cause greater than himself."

Mueller Funeral Home is honored to serve the Katona Family. 513-398-9100