Joachim Kempin Obituary

Joachim Kempin, born January 9th, 1942, in Hannover, Germany, passed away on February 5th, 2026.

Joachim studied Mathematics at the Technical University of Hannover and served for two years as a lieutenant in the German military. His professional life spanned decades and continents. He began working cleaning sauerkraut fermentation barrels and later moved on to early computer programming to fund his university studies. After completing his education, Joachim went on to teach high school mathematics and physics. In 1972, he joined Digital Equipment Corporation, where he started as a software instructor and was promoted to training center manager and later to marketing leadership roles.

He continued his career at National Semiconductor in Munich, then at Apple Inc. in Paris, before ultimately joining Microsoft. At Microsoft, he served as General Manager of the German subsidiary, was promoted to Vice President of the OEM and Support Division in Redmond, and later to Senior Vice President in 1990. He retired in 2002.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joachim had wide-ranging intellectual and personal interests. He was passionate about cooking, fine art, opera, reading, history, and physics. He loved travel and explored South Africa, Montana, the South of France, Venice, and many other destinations. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, German-made automobiles, gems, dogs, and writing, publishing three books over his lifetime. He was also a dedicated advocate for black rhino conservation.

He was known for his dry humor, passion for learning, and adventurous spirit.

He is survived by his wife, Molly MacDonald; his children, Jens Kempin, Nils Kempin, Svenja Grieb, Jessi Kempin, Tyler Bramlet-Kempin, and Thomas Bramlet-Kempin; and his grandchildren, Joaquin Kempin and Oliver Grieb.

He will be remembered for his intellect, leadership, and lifelong curiosity.

Please share memories & photos on the guestbook, located below.

Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home ~ Seattle, Washington