It’s with heavy hearts that we share the sad news of Andrew Kessel’s passing, a beloved Bay Area autocross community member. Andrew passed away after a racing accident on Saturday, March 23, 2024, leaving family and friends in deep shock. Andrew’s wife shared a Facebook post that says, “I am heartbroken to share that the love of my life, my husband Andrew Kessel, died in a racing accident on Saturday, March 23. He and I loved each other and our lives together more than I can begin to describe.”
Andrew’s Career
Over the weekend, a racing accident brutally took the life of Andrew, who was well-known for his love and devotion to the sport. For those of us who got to know Andrew, his time spent competing on the autocross circuit was also about friendship and a mutual love of the sport. Andrew’s driving talent was genuinely amazing, and his excitement was inspiring whether he was competing in a local or national tournament. Bringing a lot of experience to his work, Andrew Kessel is currently Gilead Sciences, Inc.’s Senior Counsel for IP Litigation. In this role, he manages a range of legal actions, such as Inter Partes Reviews (IPRs), and deals with disputed cases involving Gilead’s intellectual property (IP) portfolio in both domestic and foreign courts.
Funeral Arrangements
For all those who loved him and any who would like to participate, funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024. Following a private burial ceremony at Skylawn Memorial Park, we welcome you to funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Congregation Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022. A live stream of the services will also be offered. A reception will follow immediately at Congregation Beth Am. For those that are unable to travel or attend these services in California, a separate celebration of life will be held in the Boston area during the weekend of April 13, 2024. Additional details will be announced regarding that event.
Bay Area Autocross Community Mourns
As we mourn the loss of a fellow racer and friend, let us also remember the joy and energy Andrew brought to the track. His legacy will live on in the memories we shared, the races we competed in together, and the spirit of camaraderie that defines our autocross community. His absence will be deeply felt, not only in the competitive arena but also in the friendships and connections he fostered within the community. Andrew’s passion for autocross was evident in every conversation, every lap he completed, and every victory he celebrated. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Andrew’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace, knowing that he will always hold a special place in our hearts and in the history of autocross.
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