The South Philadelphia community is grieving the sudden death of Andrew Peter James “Drew” Chalmers, a 38-year-old known for his warmth, loyalty, and lifelong love of Philadelphia sports.
Chalmers passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, August 27. His death has left family, friends, and colleagues reeling, with many remembering him as a man who lived life with energy and an open heart.
Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Drew attended Neshaminy High School before studying at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and later Temple University. Yet those close to him say his true education came from the people and places he loved most: family gatherings, soccer fields, stadiums, and the bustling hospitality venues where he built his career.
In recent years, Drew became a familiar face to many Philadelphians through his work at major venues including Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field. Most recently, he worked at Libertee Grounds, where friends and coworkers say he had a gift for turning customers into friends.
“Drew never just served people—he connected with them,” said one colleague. “He was the kind of person you looked forward to seeing at work because he made every day lighter.”
Sports were at the heart of his life. A devoted Eagles and Phillies fan, he also loved cheering on the Flyers and the Union. His passion extended overseas, where he followed Premier League soccer and the German Bundesliga, proudly supporting SV Werder Bremen. Friends say his enthusiasm for the game matched his own skill as a player.
Beyond his love of sports and work, Drew took immense pride in his Scottish and German roots and cherished the time he spent with family and friends. He is survived by his parents, Ursel Chalmers of Panama City, Florida, and Doug and Susan Chalmers of Lewes, Delaware; sisters Elaine Ford and Carly Pinato; brothers John and Michael Para; two nieces, Ava and Nora Merschbach; as well as extended family in Scotland and Turkey.
His close circle of friends, often described as “brothers by choice,” include Ryan Fitzpatrick, Andrew Laba, and Casey Mitchell. At home, he found companionship in his beloved dog, William Wallace, and his cat, Garth.
The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes online. One grieving friend wrote, “This one is going to hurt for a while. I still am in shock and have very few words, so for now—I love you, I miss you. I will hug William and Garth extra for you.”
Funeral services will be overseen by Stolfo Funeral Home on South Broad Street. In place of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania in Drew’s memory.
Though his life was cut short, those who knew him say Drew’s legacy is one of kindness, community, and unwavering loyalty—a reminder of how much one person can mean to so many.
