Andrew Loron Marlette

Andrew Loron Marlette, 39, of Baker City and formerly of La Grande, died April 24 in Milwaukee, Wis.

A memorial service will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Baker Elks Lodge.

Andy was born Oct 14, 1968, the son of JoAnn and Gary Marlette in Portland. The family moved to Baker City in 1968, after Gary Marlette graduated from law school and the family decided to raise their family and begin their law practice in the comfort and community of a small town.

Andy attended Eastern Oregon University, where in 1994, he met and later married the love of his life, Kazue Kinjo. Andy and Kaz were married in spring 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.

Andy and Kaz Marlette lived and managed the Contessa Apartments while Andy attended dental school at Marquette. Andrew established a strong community at the apartment complex and would hold neighborhood barbecues for the tenants. The tenants rave about how generous Andy was with his time and efforts. 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.

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 in Richland and East Eagle Creek. He was involved in the Baker community for years, which included a DJ 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 throughout 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 survived by his wife, Kazue Marlette; parents, JoAnn and Gary Marlette; and sisters, Molly Eekoff and Carolyn Kimpton.