Charles Allen Kirschenmann

1946 - 2023

CHARLES ALLEN KIRSCHENMANN

May 12, 1946 - August 17, 2023

Charles (Chuck) Kirschenmann, 77, peacefully passed away at his home in the presence of family on August 17, 2023, in Bakersfield, CA. Chuck was one of two children born to Arnold and Florence Kirschenmann on May 12, 1946, on his grandfather Emil Kirschenmann 's 50th birthday. Upon graduating from Bakersfield High School in 1964, Chuck attended Fresno State University where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. 1963, at the age of 16, Chuck lost his father unexpectedly. Chuck was never able to finish college and moved back to Bakersfield to help run the family farming business with his brother. The unexpected death of his father in 1963, when Chuck was just 16, propelled him to move back to Bakersfield before finishing school in 1967 so he could join his brother Arnold in running the family faming business. When Chuck returned to Bakersfield, he married his wife Katie (Jones) Valentich in 1967 and had three children together, which were his ultimate pride and joy.

Before starting his family, Chuck joined the National Guard and was drafted into the Army in 1968. He was called to duty on a special operation and was honorably discharged the next year. Chuck loved his country and spent much of his life honoring patriots like himself.

At their young ages, Chuck with his brother Arnold, built an agriculture empire growing predominately potatoes, carrying on the legacy of his father. Their unexpected success quickly became admired and respected throughout the community. Chuck spent 55 years as a proud Kern County farmer. When he lost his brother and partner, Arnold, 23 years ago, he continued with the Kirschenmann Farms legacy, including his three children at different stages along the way.

Chuck lived and breathed farming, but his most important legacy are his children and grandchildren. He was extremely proud of all three of his children, taking any opportunity to boast about their varying accomplishments. He was tickled and overjoyed when his daughter and her growing family joined him in the Olde Stockdale community, just a few doors away, followed by his son Brian a few years later. With the birth of his first grandchild 15 years ago, Chuck began to shift from protective dad to adoring grandfather.

Off the farm, Chuck loved the game of golf and the comradery it brought between his sons Brian and Scott and son-in-law Matt. When those three were not available, Chuck's roster of friends to play with was infinite. His enjoyment of the sport lasted a lifetime for Chuck, playing in countless tournaments and yearly trips to Maui with close friends. He also found boundless enjoyment in spending the winter months in Palm Desert.

Chuck loved to travel, perhaps his favorite destination other than his countless cruises around the world, and Europe, was his seat on the lanai at his Maui property. Chuck also relished his view of the 9th hole at his Montecito house at Birnam Wood Country Club. New York City was among his favorites where he visited his daughter Christy. The ultimate memory maker for Chuck and his family was in Mammoth, where they spent year after year sharing their condo with friends and family.

Chuck's larger-than-life personality filled a room quickly. He had a charisma that drew those around him to take a seat and enjoy more. Chucks dry witty sarcasm left those in his company laughing out loud, often at their own expense. He had a vault of one-liners and inappropriate jokes, that could make you cringe but undoubtedly find the humor. Aside from his big personality, it was what was in his heart that left the most lasting impression. He was a kind-hearted, exceptionally generous, and deeply devoted to those he loved.

Chuck shared the last 18 years of his life with his best friend and partner Lindsay Carey. Her love and friendship brought a new chapter for Chuck filled with travel, friendships, and a new extended family for Chuck to enjoy between Bakersfield and Indiana.

Chuck is joined in heaven by his loving parents, Arnold and Florence Kirschenmann, his brother Arnold Kirschenmann and his eldest son Scott Kirschenmann who tragically passed away in 2019. Chuck is survived by his son Brian Kirschenmann, his daughter Christy Hornbuckle and husband Matt, his six grandchildren, Chase, Clara and Annabelle Kirschenmann, and Georgia, Faye, and Nora Hornbuckle. He is also survived by his beloved partner, his best friend, his 'Angel', Lindsay Carey.

Services will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 10:00am. Private burial to follow. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the National Veterans Foundation: www.nvf.org, the Scott Kirschenmann Family Foundation: www.kirschenmannfoundation.org, or Maui Nui Strong: www.mauinuistrong.org.

Chuck was 'the BEST man' anyone could ever have the privilege to know. He will never be forgotten.

In loving memory of a revered man, devoted father & grandfather, and outstanding friend.

Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

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