Andrew “Drew” Peter James Chalmers, 38, of South Philadelphia, passed away suddenly at his home on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. His passing has left his family, friends, and community heartbroken, as they remember a man whose energy, kindness, and zest for life touched everyone he encountered.
Drew was born to Ursel Chalmers of Panama City, Florida, and Doug and Susan Chalmers of Lewes, Delaware. He grew up in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, where he graduated from Neshaminy High School. Following high school, he pursued his education at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and later at Temple University in Philadelphia, where he further cultivated his passions and friendships.
A lifelong Philadelphia sports fan, Drew embodied the spirit of the city. He was deeply devoted to the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, and Union, and his love of soccer was especially notable. Drew was not only a talented soccer player himself but also an enthusiastic supporter of international soccer, following the Premier League and Bundesliga with enthusiasm. He was particularly loyal to SV Werder Bremen, and his love of the game connected him to friends both near and far.
Professionally, Drew built a meaningful career in the Philadelphia hospitality industry. Known for his charisma, quick smile, and love of connecting with people, he became a familiar face at many beloved venues across the city. He found joy in working at Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field, where his work allowed him to combine his passion for sports with his love of hospitality. Most recently, he brought that same energy and warmth to Libertee Grounds, where colleagues and patrons alike admired his professionalism and upbeat personality.
Drew’s vibrant spirit extended beyond his professional life. He was deeply proud of his Scottish and German heritage, often celebrating his roots with family and friends. Those who knew him best describe him as kind, charismatic, and endlessly loyal. He cherished his family and held his friends close, treating them like brothers. His chosen family included his blood brothers Ryan Fitzpatrick, Andrew Laba, and Casey Mitchell, who, along with countless others, now mourn his absence.
He is survived by his parents, his sisters Elaine (Greg) Ford of Warrington, PA, and Carly (Randall) Pinato of Middletown, DE; his brothers John Para of Pittston, PA, and Michael Para of Croydon, PA; and his nieces Ava and Nora Merschbach. Drew is also remembered by aunts, uncles, and cousins in Scotland and Turkey, as well as by his wide circle of friends in Philadelphia and beyond. His beloved fur babies, his dog William Wallace and his cat Garth, will also miss his companionship.
Funeral arrangements will be cared for by The Stolfo Funeral Home on South Broad Street in Philadelphia.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Drew’s memory to the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania, an organization whose mission reflects the kind of giving spirit that Drew embodied throughout his life.
Drew’s memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he shared. His presence brought joy to every room, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched.
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