Andrew Brian Kirchen, 61, left the living while alone at home in Corvallis, Oregon March 8, 2025. Cause of death was complications from liver cancer. He was born Oct. 28, 1963 in Kingston, R.I., moved a year later to Burlington, N.C. and became an active member of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter. He attended Hillcrest Elementary, Turrentine Middle and Williams High public schools, became an accomplished viola musician and earned high academic recognition. His B.A. college degree was awarded by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He played with orchestras for a while before employment as a newspaper journalist near Atlanta, Georgia. This critical writing experience was an asset in following years.
Andrew loved music. It was in his soul, especially New Orleans jazz. He and his brothers often attended the festivals there. In addition to music, he also derived pleasure from cooking with home grown garlic and bicycling almost anywhere. While being an incredibly private person, he was also an enthusiastic gamester, especially competitive in cribbage and backgammon. These were his personal outlets.
As if responding to an inner calling about 1996, Andrew rented an apartment in Corvallis, Oregon and “assimilated in the new cultural traditions” (his own words). Indicative of his nature, he adopted a kitten as his only house companion and traded his viola for a mandolin to better fit the Oregon scene. KBOO was a favorite jazz station that provided comfort.
Many lasting friendships were formed at the “Beer 30” local pub. He lived in Corvallis for the rest of his life.
Starting about 1997, and until his death, Andrew was employed as an Editor in the Publication Services unit of the Oregon Legislative Counsel Committee in Salem. He had a very responsible position and was highly regarded by colleagues who were impressed with his calm composure under pressure, well-timed humor, and sharp mind. Some who had worked with Andrew for 20 or more years spoke of his kindness and thoughtfulness, much like a mentor. He was a great asset to the Legislative Counsel, an unforgettable good man who will be missed. These were his happiest and most productive adult years.
Andrew is survived by his parents Robert Kirchen and Helen (Terri) Kirchen of Elon, N.C.; and by two brothers Evan Reed Kirchen (wife Bess, children Oliver, Alexandra, and Ava) of Texas, and Roger William Kirchen (wife Kristin, children Isaac and Lilah) of Virginia.
Memorial Services are pending.
