Honoring Andrew Kotchoubey: A Life of Service and Dedication
/Dear American Friends of Blérancourt Members,
It is with profound sadness that the Board of American Friends of Blérancourt and I learned of the passing of our dear friend and longtime Board member, Andrew Kotchoubey, who served with dedication for more than 35 years.
We will always remember him as a rigorous and highly effective Treasurer of the American Friends of Blérancourt, whose steadfast commitment helped guide the organization through decades of growth and achievement.
As Chairman of the Board, I was always impressed by Andrew's remarkable depth of knowledge of Western history and culture. His intellectual curiosity and breadth of understanding were truly exceptional. Through my own visits to Russia, I also had the opportunity to witness firsthand his deep engagement with the Kotchoubey Readings and his enduring connection to Russian cultural life. At the same time, true to his multicultural heritage, the Museum of Blérancourt - dedicated to Franco-American friendship - held a special place in his heart.
Andrew played a pivotal role in supporting the creation and reconstruction of the museum, working tirelessly through the American Friends of Blérancourt to help raise funds and ensure the careful stewardship of donations.
Born in Florence in 1938, Andrew became an American citizen in 1953 and built a life that gracefully bridged cultures and communities. He passed away in New York on July 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by generosity, commitment, and quiet distinction.
He was a devoted husband to Princess Daria Gortchakov and a loving father to Alexander, Elena, Tatiana, Nicolas, and Alexandra. His family was at the center of his life, and his legacy endures through them.
Andrew's lifelong passion was service. He gave generously of his time and energy, particularly in support of the émigré community, where he became a trusted source of guidance and assistance for many. His dedication extended far beyond individual acts of kindness; he held key leadership roles in numerous charitable organizations.
His decades-long involvement with the Tolstoy Foundation stands as a powerful testament to his character. After joining the Board in 1965, he later served as President and Chairman, helping to shape the Foundation's mission and expand its impact, working closely with Countess Alexandre Lvovna Tolstoy. He retired in 2013.
His sense of duty extended across borders. In the 1980s, he served as Treasurer of the Afghanistan Relief Committee. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, he renewed his ties with Russia, contributing actively to its cultural and intellectual life, notably through his involvement with the Higher School of Economics in St. Petersburg and his patronage of the Kotchoubey Readings.
Andrew will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments, but also for his integrity, generosity, and unwavering commitment to others. His legacy of service, cultural engagement, and humanity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Kotchoubey family. We stand with them in remembrance and gratitude.
Franck Laverdin
Chairman of the Board
