Another friend/bandmate slipping away

[alanolynn]

I'm just venting since I'm at work and don't have contact with any friends at the moment.

One of my biggest musical inspirations and friend is suffering from catastrophic liver and kidney failure. He has been sick for a while, but just this weekend, he's flatlined 5 times and isn't improving at all.

Before I played bass (being a drummer first) I played in a great band with this man, who was playing bass at the time. It was the most fun I had ever had in music. He has such soul and power in his playing, his stance, his attack, his attitude. He made me want that. To own the tune. 150 million%. I'll continue to strive for that forever, knowing that I can never measure up to his presence and love for the song.

His name is Mike, and he's a part of me now. When someone helps to shape you as a musician, you are never the same again. You hold on to that person, whether you think to or not.

He's hanging on for now, and I hope to see him this weekend. To thank him. To make sure he knows the power he has.

Talk to your band mates. Offer a hug, a handshake, or even just a friendly text. If not for you, do it for them. You may be shaping them as a person and not even know it.

 

[Oddly]

Sounds like you were lucky to have him in your life. I hope you get time to tell him so. Best wishes to you both.

 

[mrcbass]

It's not easy watching any friend fade away. Lost a friend to complications from diabetes and liver failure last year and it's still a bit tough. Hope you get to say your piece. Best wishes.

 

[kesslari]

Wishing you both strength and grace. He sounds like an amazing person and you are blessed to know him.

 

[LBS-bass]

I'm so sorry to hear this. Yes, do let him know what he means to you. He'll be grateful to hear it. I lost my dear friend and musical mentor from many years back just about a year ago. We lived on opposite coasts when he died, but I was able to send him a letter to let him know how much I appreciated having him in my life, and how I am a better person for having known him. I'm glad I was able to do that. Wishing you well as you navigate through this; I know how hard it is.

 

[alanolynn]

Going to see Mike one last time this Saturday...He's declining rapidly and suffering more every day.

Thought I'd share some pics so others can see this awesome man, and the way he should be remembered.

First pic is my old house's bar. That's me behind, and him "bellying up"

Second is him playing with his Dog, Rufus. One of the best dogs on the planet, along with one of the best dudes.

 

[alanolynn]

*thinking selfishly*

I lost my chance. He's gone. Around midnight last night, he drifted away. He will be missed.

 

[Oddly]

So sorry for your loss, and that you never got that last chance to see him.

 

[bolophonic]

*thinking selfishly*

I lost my chance. He's gone. Around midnight last night, he drifted away. He will be missed.

I’m sorry to read that. My condolences.

 

[Pizza1988]

Sorry for your loss, bud. That picture of him with his dog reminds me of a friend of mine. I think I'll have to shoot him a text later.

RIP Mike

 

[alanolynn]

Sorry for your loss, bud. That picture of him with his dog reminds me of a friend of mine. I think I'll have to shoot him a text later.

RIP Mike

Don't wait... thank you for your kind words.

 

[FunkHead]

Sorry for your loss.

 

[JRA]

RIP, mike.

When someone helps to shape you as a musician, you are never the same again.

for this, as a musician: you're blessed. congratulations on such a meaningful relationship!

 

[kobass]

So sorry for your loss. RIP Mike.

 

[RichardW]

So sorry for your loss. Your friend left a legacy in you. Carry it forward.

 

[alanolynn]

Thanks fellas, means a lot. A great community this is.

 

[bobba66]

RIP.

 

[alanolynn]

Went to see Mike's mother, Jean, yesterday after work. Did a couple of things around the house for her, as she's all alone and recently took a bad fall. Felt good to help her out, and I know that Mike would be happy to see me doing so for her. Long story short, she had me leave with his homemade, Walnut body Pbass. He was a burly man, and carried himself proudly. Now I can see why. This 16# monster will hold you down. I played it proudly for hours last night. Felt his vibe as I sat with it. At the same time, I'm terrified of it...

 

[alanolynn]

There she is. Had my first practice with her last night and it was like nothing I've played before. Effortless runs and tone for days. An enjoyable and neverending reminder of my friend. A memento.

 

[nixdad]

I'm late to the thread. I'm so sorry for your loss.