If you've ever been captivated by the soulful strains of Chloe Dancer / Crown of Thorns or found yourself lost in the melodies of Stargazer, you know that Andy Wood wasn't just a musician—he was a force of nature. As the charismatic lead singer of Mother Love Bone, Andy's presence was electric, and his vision of Love Rock left an indelible mark on the Seattle music scene.
The Final Days of a Shining Star
In early 1990, Mother Love Bone was on the cusp of greatness. Their debut album, Apple, was slated for release in March, and anticipation was high. Andy, who had struggled with heroin addiction, had recently completed a stint in rehab and was determined to embrace a fresh start. However, on March 16, 1990, tragedy struck. Andy was found unconscious in his apartment by his fiancée, Xana La Fuente, following a heroin overdose. He was rushed to Seattle's Harborview Hospital and placed on life support. Despite the medical team's efforts, Andy remained in a coma, and on March 19, 1990, he passed away at the age of 24.
A Memorial Fit for a Rock Poet
Andy's death sent shockwaves through the music community. His memorial service was held in Seattle, where friends, family, and fans gathered to celebrate his life and music. Chris Cornell, Andy's roommate and close friend, described the funeral as surreal, noting that despite the tragedy, it felt like a fitting tribute to someone who was "a rock star the day he was born."
Visiting Andy's Resting Place
For those wishing to pay their respects, Andy was laid to rest at Miller-Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bremerton, Washington. Bremerton held a special place in Andy's heart—it was his hometown and where his family resided. His gravesite is located in the outdoor mausoleum at the top of the hill, adjacent to the chapel. Specifically, you'll find him in the ROSE section, first column, six spaces up on the right-hand side.
Planning Your Visit from Seattle
If you're coming from Seattle, here's how you can make the journey:
By Car Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
By Public Transportation:
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Ferry: From downtown Seattle, board the Seattle-Bremerton ferry at Pier 52. The ferry ride offers stunning views and takes about 60 minutes.
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Bus: Once in Bremerton, catch the Kitsap Transit Bus Route 24 from the Bremerton Transportation Center to the Kitsap Way at the National Avenue stop.
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Walk: From the bus stop, it's a short 0.3-mile walk west on Kitsap Way to the memorial park.
Total Travel Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on ferry and bus schedules.
A Quiet Moment with a Legend
Standing at Andy's gravesite is a poignant experience. The serenity of the memorial park contrasts with the vibrant energy he brought to the stage. It's a place to reflect on his contributions to music and the enduring legacy he left behind.
