Kent L. Aldrich

On October 21, 1940, Kent began his life in Bamiji, Minnesota where he lived on a farm near both sets of grandparents. He later made moves to Eugene Oregon, (where his life long love of the Ducks started) Butte, Montana and finally Bozeman. He continued in Bozeman attending MSU where he started as an engineering major. After a course in calculus, he decided accounting was more his speed. He sure loved his numbers.

After graduating, Kent began working for Peat Marwick Mitchell in San Francisco. During this time, he met his wife of almost 59 years, Claudia Aldrich. She made quite the impression as he drove nearly two hours to Stockton to pick her up and drop her off for their dates. They were married in 1964.

In this same year, he was active in the Air Force and in the reserves, later on.

Kent made Salem his home when he moved here with his wife, Claudia, in 1966. Soon, his daughter, Cheryl was born, followed exactly two years later by his son, Mitchell.

In 1973, he planted the roots deeper, moved from his big firm job and hung up a shingle opening his own business with long time friend, Dick Kilbride. Although he retired in 2005, he was proud that today that firm has expanded to several states, two countries and is on Forbes 2023 list of best accounting and tax firms. He was exceptionally proud that in 2017, the Aldrich Company honored him by adopting his name.

For several years, Kent shared his expertise as an adjunct professor at Linfield College where he taught accounting. Apparently, he had some bright students for at least one still works at the Aldrich Company even today.

His investment in community continued and in 1976 he ran for mayor of Salem winning the election. He served in this capacity from 1977 until 1982. During his terms as mayor, the city developed expansion plans for the West Salem bridges, and Salem won best "All American City".

His involvement and impact on the community didn't stop with politics and education. Kent was a founding member of the Boys' Club ( now the Boys' and Girls' Club) in 1970. He served as Treasurer in 1971 and President 1972 and 1973. He was a part of a small group of men who all personally supported the ongoing expenses of the Club during the first few years.

He also provided financial oversight as well connecting the right people with the Club to help expand the programs for kids. Early on, he worked directly with the kids- he loved telling stories about the boys rafting trips.

Kent contributed civically in other capacities as well. He served on the Board of Goodwill Industries from 1985 and became its treasurer in 1993. He was chairman of the Hitchman Foundation, was honored with the "School Bell Award" by the Assistance League of Salem and in 1986, he was recognized as Salem's First Citizen.

Kent had a passion for family who played an integral part in his life and he was happiest surrounded by them. Even when his children, Cheryl and Mitchell, were grown, his and Claudia's vacations often included them as well as their grandchildren. They were able to visit and explore together in several countries and climates. Kent even bestowed to each of his grandsons a trip with him; one to Africa the other to China. Smaller adventures were had in Salem. Cameron, Conner and Jenna couldn't wait until Wednesdays at 6:00 am when Kent would pick the three up for breakfast before school. This practice continued until the youngest left for college.

He was a fierce competitor and played golf, racket ball, and a multitude of card games. His specialty was cribbage.

He is survived by his wife, Claudia Aldrich, son, Mitchell Aldrich (Teresa), daughter, Cheryl Johnson (Troy), his siblings, Leslie Huffman, Brian Aldrich, Scott Aldrich, and Bob Aldrich, his four grandchildren, and two great grand children.

A service will take place June 16th at 3:00 at Virgil T. Golden Funeral Services and a reception at Illahee Country Club at 4:00.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute in Kent's name to The Boy's and Girl's Club of Salem, The Saint Francis Shelter, or a charity of your choice.