Tristan R. Kirchner 2001-2025

Tristan was born Nov. 8, 2001, in Youngstown, a son of Raymond Kirchner and Carolyn Hornyak. He was a lifelong resident of the area, where he touched the lives of many with his kindness, humor and zest for life.

A proud graduate of Chaney High School, Class of 2020, Tristan found his calling in the culinary arts. For five years, he worked as a cook at Pour House in Poland, a role that allowed him to express his creativity and love for cooking.

Tristan was a member of St. Joseph Church in Austintown and an active participant in the Knights of Columbus Ohio State Council 9804. He valued faith, family and the beauty of the outdoors.

An adventurer at heart, he spent countless hours fishing, kayaking, boating, jet skiing and riding his four-wheeler — activities he most enjoyed with his family and close friends. He also had a deep passion for sports, whether watching or participating, and was an all-around sports enthusiast. A loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Tristan never missed the chance to cheer on his favorite team.

Among his friends, Tristan was affectionately known as “Batman,” a nickname that reflected his protective, loyal nature and larger-than-life presence. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, always ready to lend a helping hand or provide a listening ear.

In his free time, he enjoyed listening to music, shooting pool and playing video games.

In his youth, Tristan participated in Cub Scouts, where he proudly won the Pinewood Derby. He was also a proud member of the Mahoning Conservation Club, where he deepened his appreciation for nature and community.

Above all, he cherished moments spent with his family and friends, who will forever remember his warmth, loyalty, and infectious laughter.

Tristan is survived by his mother, Carolyn Hornyak, with whom he made his home; his father and stepmother, Raymond and Clyda Kirchner of Austintown; his brother, Trenton Kirchner of Youngstown; his sister, Julia (Anthony) Kowalik of Loveland, Colorado; grandparents, Robert and Kathleen Kirchner of Austintown; aunts and uncles, Ricky (Paula) Hornyak, Christine Hornyak, Lisa (Ron) Kaschak and Robert Kirchner Jr. (Stacy Best); two stepsisters, Bethany (Michael) Rudd and Abigail (Dom) Williams; step-grandparents, Lamar and Martha Sparks; and many cousins, extended family members and countless friends.

Tristan was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward “Pa” and Irene “Bubby” Hornyak; an uncle, Edward Hornyak Jr.; an aunt, Cynthia Hornyak, and her lifelong partner, Frank Santiago; and two cousins, Ricky Hornyak Jr. and Bergen Bryan.

Family and friends may call 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin 9:15 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, at the funeral home and continue with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 4545 New Road, Austintown, with the Very Rev. Gregory Fedor officiating.

Interment will follow in St. John Cemetery in Coitsville.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Tristan’s family.

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