Andrew Ian McKenzie died from natural causes in his sleep on Oct.11. He was 21 years old and had suffered from neurofibromatosis Type I (NF1) since being diagnosed as an infant and endured many medical complications during his lifetime, including numerous surgeries and epilepsy, according to his family. They added that despite these medical challenges, his health in the past few years had seemingly been the best of his life, and his passing was quite unexpected.
He leaves behind his parents, Steve and Alyson McKenzie; his brother, Graham; and sister, Sarah Grace. Andrew will be cherished by his family including grandparents—Roland and Ruth McKenzie, and Glen Adams—aunts, uncles and nine first cousins.
A true Malibu local, Andrew attended Malibu Presbyterian
Nursery School, Webster and Juan Cabrillo elementary schools and graduated from Malibu High School in 2016. Since finishing high school, Andrew had been attending the Riverview School and Cape Cod Community College in Cape Cod, Mass., where he was enrolled in a specialized transition program for young adults with complex learning challenges. He was anticipating completing his studies in June 2019 and moving into full-time employment.
In recent years, Andrew held part-time jobs at Becker Surf and Ralphs Grocery, where he made friends among colleagues and greatly enjoyed helping all customers, especially his many local friends.
“He will be remembered for his wry sense of humor and love of practical jokes. Known to his friends by his nickname ‘Ace,’ Andrew had tremendous love for his family and friends, time in the ocean, caramel espresso drinks, Coca-Cola, spicy foods, and classic ‘60s music,” his family shared.
Memorial donations in honor of Andrew may be made to the Children’s Tumor Foundation (120 Wall Street, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10005; ctf.org).
A celebration of life/memorial service will be held at Malibu Gathering (6245 Busch Drive) on Saturday, Nov. 3, at 2 p.m. All are welcome to attend.