Outdoorsman, dog-lover, Steelers-fan. These are just a few of the traits that come to mind for family and friends as they remember Chester County teen Andrew Specht, who died Dec. 19.
The 17-year-old Glenmore native collapsed while working at his part-time job last Friday, passing away later that day due to complications from the flu virus, according to family members.
"He was a baseball player and enjoyed outdoor activities, especially fishing and camping," read an obituary for the Downington High School West senior.
Officials with the Chester County Health Department have yet to confirm his cause of death, but they said Specht tested posted for influenza A.
"He will be greatly missed by all of us here at West," said DHS West Principal Kurt Barker in a statement.
Mourners will gather at St. Elizabeth Church on Fellowship Road in Chester Springs for Specht's funeral Friday.
In honor of the teen's love of animals, his relatives asked for memorial contributions to be made in Specht's name to the Chester County SPCA.
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Specht's death comes in the midst of warnings from health officials over widespread flu activity in the tri-state region.
The Chester County Health Department stressed the importance of practicing everyday precautions, like hand-washing, and getting a flu vaccine each year.
But at least one infectious disease specialist warned vaccines may be less effective this year than in the past.
More information on the flu and flu vaccines is available on Chester County's website.
