Andrew Loron “Andy” Marlette, 39, of Baker City, died on April 24, 2008, at Milwaukee, Wis.
His memorial and celebration service will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Baker Elks Lodge, 1896 Second St. Friends are invited to join his family to celebrate his life.
Andy was born on Oct. 14, 1968, at Portland. He was the only son of JoAnn and Gary Marlette. The family moved to Baker City in 1968 after Gary Marlette graduated from law school. The Marlettes had decided to raise their family and begin their law practice in the comfort and community of a small town, the family said.
Andy attended Eastern Oregon University at La Grande. It was there in 1994 that he met and later married the love of his life, Kazue Kinjo. Andy and Kaz were married in the spring of 1998.
Andy later graduated from EOU in 2005, after he decided to pursue a career in dentistry. He was accepted into Marquette University Dental School, and Andy and Kaz moved there in 2005. The couple lived at and managed the Contessa Apartments while Andy attended dental school at Marquette.
He established a strong community at the apartment complex and scheduled neighborhood barbecues for the tenants.
“The tenants rave about how generous Andy was with his time and efforts,” family members said. “He was always willing to lend a helping hand.”
Andy also made strong friendships with his dental classmates and was known for his humor and his generous, kind spirit, they said.
Andy possessed a great love for Eastern Oregon. His hobbies included boating and fishing on the Snake River, snowmobiling and hiking at his parents’ cabin in the Wallowas, and working outside on the family properties at Richland and on East Eagle Creek.
He was involved in the Baker community for years, which included a DJ’ing business with his long-time, childhood friend, Andy Ballard.
Andy Marlette was also involved in the Baker Elks Drum and Bugle Corps and would travel around Oregon performing with his friends. Andy had a strong passion for music, the outdoors, and for the people who loved him. He always made people laugh with his jokes, crazy antics and contagious laugh.
“Andrew is deeply loved by so many and will be greatly missed,” his family said.
Survivors include his wife, Kazue Marlette; his parents, JoAnn and Gary Marlette; and two sisters, Molly Eekoff and Carolyn Kimpton.
Memorial contributions may be made to Baker High School – Andy Marlette Music Fund – through Gray’s West & Co. Pioneer Chapel, 1500 Dewey Ave., Baker City, OR 97814.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, May 16, 2008
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor