In Loving Memory of Andriy

It’s with shattered hearts that we share the loss of our dear friend, Andrew Timothy Staggenborg, or as many of us knew him, Andriy, who passed away on April 18, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri. He was just 22 years old.

Born Andriy Kochmar on December 29, 2002, in Lviv, Ukraine, Andrew brought an infectious smile, a cheerful heart, a generous soul and an unwavering desire to help others. Andrew was joyful, smart, fiercely kind, unfailingly sweet, sometimes goofy, often clumsy but always loving. His golden heart, sharp sense of humor, and compassionate soul made him unforgettable. His twinkling blue eyes, the dimples in his cheeks and the smile that could melt your heart brightened every space he entered.

He was always dreaming up something, a new bubble wrap jacket, how to modify a recipe to make it his own, a new goal to chase at school, or a crazy difficult birthday cake to make for him. He had just finished his associate’s degree at STLCC and was starting a new chapter at UMSL, proud of the life he was building with his own hands. His heart stayed wide open, and his curiosity never dimmed, no matter what challenges life threw his way.

He had just booked his flight to Ukraine to visit his grandma for her birthday in August. He was so excited to reconnect with his roots and the people he loved.

Andriy had a heart that didn’t know how to do anything halfway. He cared fiercely about his friends, about animals, about every stray fish and forgotten plant, about art, about making people laugh. His life was a whirlwind of energy, messiness, kindness, chaos, and so much love.

He was always planning something, a new project, a new goal at school, a new park to explore or really just any adventure. He lived with an open heart and endless curiosity, no matter what challenges he faced.

We are devastated that we didn’t get more time with him. We miss his jokes, his wildly creative ideas, a smile that somehow always made life feel a little sweeter, and the way he believed in people even when they couldn’t believe in themselves. He was stubborn, so, so stubborn, but we all knew that behind that stubbornness was a heart that just wanted to stand strong and independent.

The loss of him and his spirit hurts more than words can say.

We want to honor Andrew’s life in every way we can. Your donations will help cover the cost of planting a Tulip Tree at Creve Coeur Lake, along with placing a memorial bench nearby — giving everyone who loved him a place to visit, to remember, and to feel close to him.

Any additional funds raised beyond the cost of the tree, marker, and bench will be divided and donated to charities that Andriy held dear to his heart.

This fundraiser isn’t just about the practical things. It’s about standing together and saying that Andrew’s life mattered — that his laughter, his stubborn heart, and his endless kindness will never be forgotten.

We love you, Andrew. Thank you for the laughs, the late-night talks, the terrible selfies, the plants, the fish, the messes, and the memories.

You will always be part of us.

Rest easy, Andriy. We’ll carry you with us, always.