Andrew Wilkens
Wilkens, Andrew
January 20, 2026
Beloved husband of Kelly (Farr) Wilkens; devoted father of Benjamin and Caroline Wilkens; cherished son of Dianne (Brandenborg) and the late Sherman Wilkens; dearest brother of Christopher (Susan) Wilkens; also survived by nieces and nephews; son in-law of Edward (Judith) McDermid. Family and Friends may call Friday, January 30th from 3-7 pm at The Dietrich Funeral Homes, Inc., 2480 Kensington Ave., Amherst. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 31st at 10 am at Canisius High School Scaccia Auditorium, 1180 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY. Flowers gratefully declined, memorials may be made to Canisius High School, 1180 Delaware Ave., Buffalo NY 14209 (canisiushigh.org/support/gift) or Nardin Academy, 135 Cleveland Ave., Buffalo NY 14222 (Nardin.org/support). Online condolences may be shared at www.TheDietrichFuneralHome.com
Andrew Sherman Wilkens died unexpectedly on January 20, 2026.
He was born on November 16, 1968, to Sherman Wilkens and Dianne Healey and grew up in Kenmore, New York. Andrew graduated from The Park School and Hartwick College while spending joyful childhood summers in Point Abino, Ontario, places that helped shape his care, humor, and deep sense of loyalty to the people and communities he loved.
Andrew was the devoted husband of Kelly and a proud, loving father to Ben and Caroline. He was a cherished brother to Christopher and a beloved uncle to 7 nieces and nephews.
A kind and dedicated friend, Andrew was someone others could always count on. He was a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres, following his teams with unwavering hope and enthusiasm- with occasional constructive criticism for each. Andrew found joy in the everyday moments: quiet walks through Snyder, sharing a Saturday breakfast sandwich with Kelly, or laughing through a movie with his family—one he had seen countless times but still enjoyed just as much.
Those who knew Andrew will miss his unmistakable laugh, his quick humor, and his deep care for the feelings of others. He had a way of making people feel seen and at ease and was loved by those who knew him.
The family will host a visitation on Friday, January 30 from 3p-7p at The Dietrich Funeral Home 2480 Kensington Ave., Amherst. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 31, at 10:00 a.m. at Canisius High School Scaccia Auditorium, 1180 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY. Andrew’s family invites all who knew and loved him to gather in remembrance and gratitude for a life lived with kindness, loyalty, and love.
The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Andrew be made to Canisius High School or Nardin Academy.
Kelly and family. Melissa and I are heartbroken to hear. Andrew was one of my closest childhood friends and I adored him.
So sorry to read this. My sincere condolences to Dianne and Christopher. Andrew and Christopher grew up in our neighborhood and visited me for haircuts for many years. I have lost touch after many years but think of them often. Prayers for Andrews family, especially his wife and children. My wife and I are in South Carolina for the winter months , so I regret that I will miss his service. Sending Love precious memories. Frank Brigante
My sincerest condolences to the Wilkins family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dear Christopher,
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I will always fondly remember you and Andrew (and your parents) visiting us in Minnetonka, as well as, us getting to vacation with you at your home in Point Abino. There was never a dull moment when we were with “Diane’s boys”! I can still hear your mom yelling from the top of the stairs, “Annn-dreww!”
With love,
Biz
Andrew, I sit here in disbelief. The years we worked together seemed like a lifetime. The laughs and pranks, endless. We were just the scheduler and assistant, but damn, we were good! Hopefully you find Gene’s sneaker up there and get to enjoy a Sabres cup run, put in a good word for the team, we will need it, I am sure! Until we meet again my friend, Rest in Peace.
Condolences to the Wilkens family. I have many fond and humorous memories of Andrew while at Hartwick College. He was a great guy, kind to everyone and a really good conversationalist and listener. His gripes and rantings about the Bills and other sports teams was always amusing. I also remember how much he loved the city of Buffalo and the surrounding area. I know he will be missed by many and I hope those close to him will remember Andrew in a positive way.
Dear Kelly, Ben and Caroline,
I was deeply saddened to learn of the heartbreaking loss of Andrew. Hoping you each find comfort and healing in your faith and by holding all the wonderful memories of Andrew in your heart during this very difficult time.
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers and sending my Deepest and Heartfelt Sympathy.
Love, Aunt Susan
I have many memories of youthful exploration and silliness with Andrew (and Christopher), at Point Abino and elsewhere. We even went looking for Robert DeNiro once!
Andrew’s curious, gentle energy will be missed!
Grieflove to all who knew and loved him.
In community,
Christen Clifford
To All the Wilkens Family- I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved Andrew. I am a lifelong friend of his Mom, Dianne, and I knew him throughout his childhood. Over the years, there were numerous trips made to get our families together whether it was to Mpls, Buffalo or Point Abino. It was always such a good time and Andrew was particularly astute at spearheading novel adventure ideas for he and Chris and my two daughters! We all carry fond memories of him and these times together.
I’m thinking of you all at this time of deep grief and loss. May all your good memories bring your comfort.
My heart is with you.
Linda Zimney