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Terry Aramian 1944-2023
In a message received from John Fynmore...
Terry Aramian Passed - April 6, 2023
Guys, I just heard from Gary Steinkamp that Terry passed this morning at 11:30. He had recently been visited by a number of quartets at a rehab center and had the opportunity to say goodbye to a lot of his barbershop buddies. The Phoenix Friday lunch bunch crew was fortunate to enjoy singing with him for past few years. We will all miss his humor, sharp wit and warm heart. Our prayers and thoughts go out to his wife Chris. RIP Terry!
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2023 at 3:00 PM at the American Italian Club, 7509 N 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Please come celebrate the life of one of the funniest and truly memorable men of all time, Terry Aramian. We will be celebrating his life with pictures, videos and some shared stories in a setting of singing, laughter and a few tears. There will be a cash bar and Italian food will be served with a variety of choices. The family asks that you consider a love offering at the door to help with the cost of this celebration.
If you are planning on attending, please RSVP to http://evite.me/hY29ypDmKf
Music Appreciation 101
Music Appreciation 101
Music Appreciation 101Friday April 07
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Dr. Greg Lyne
JAN 13, 2022 — Some sad news…below is the text of a message that was posted to the BQPA FB page.
I just received this note from Jim Bagby, Baritone of the 1986 Champion Quartet Rural Route 4 regarding Dr. Greg Lyne.
Jim wrote:
"Barbershopping icon Dr. Greg Lyne died about 2:30 this afternoon CST in his San Francisco area home. He had suffered for some time with emphysema and related diseases. His son, Cameron, called me twice today, once to tell me the end was near, and then again to say he was gone.
One of the last songs Cameron played for him was "On the Farm in Old Missouri," which Greg arranged for the Rural Route 4 at the request of Gil Lefholz, whose aunt found the sheet music in her piano bench in northwest Missouri.
Greg was a native of Wamego, KS, not far from Topeka, and joined BHS at age 14. I think he was 73, because in all the years we were friends he was about five years younger than I. He spent time in the KC area as a high school teacher in KCK while he worked on his master's in choral conducting at Kansas State, and also was an assistant director of the Pony Expressmen in St. Joseph.
He coached HOA (Kansas City Chapter) several times over the years and with possible exception of Jim Henry, he was the best we ever had. Greg was only the second man in Society history (after Lou Laurel) to earn gold directing two choruses – Chicago's West Towns and then Masters of Harmony that he founded in Los Angeles."
I had the distinct pleasure and honor of learning volumes from Greg over my entire Barbershop lifetime, especially during my formative years, teaching, coaching, arranging, and as a judge, and I continue to use many of the amazing musical tools he taught still today. Dr. Greg completely changed the way music education took place in the Society. I'm sure that many of you will remember him and, even if you don't, you have benefited from his teachings in some way, shape, or form. Please take a moment to offer a prayer or thoughtful energy in his direction. (pun intended)
Sing-sincerely,
Raymond SchwarzkopfThursday January 13
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Remembering Fraser Brown
Gordon Fraser Brown 4/16/1944 – 12/17/2020
As you know, music was Fraser’s life’s passion. He began singing in the Toronto Boys Choir at age 6 where he made his debut on a record album. At 16, he moved to Scottsdale because of his arthritis. That was where he was introduced to Barbershop Harmony. He graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Music Theory and Composition. Although his career was in computer software, he used his degree in his church and Barbershop arrangements.
His computer career included positions at First National Bank of Arizona, Capex, Computer Associates, Viasoft, and GoDaddy.
Fraser followed his passion of chorus and quartet singing most of his adult life. He sang in shows all over the United States, and he attended competitions and conventions for many years. These last few years, his health did not allow him to travel. Eventually, he was not strong enough to sing.
Because of COVID-19, Kacy and I have decided that there will be no public celebration of life. If you wish to honor his memory and love of music, please send a donation to Harmony Foundation International. Donations in his honor will be used for music education for children/youth. Simply enclose a note saying “In honor of Fraser Brown - gift to be used for music education” and mail it to:
Harmony Foundation International
PO Box 24030
Nashville TN 37202Or online at: https://www.harmonyfoundation.org/rick-taylor
Scroll down to check the tribute gift box. In the comments box you can state “In honor of Fraser Brown.”
Recent Medical HistoryFraser first started treating his kidney failure just before Kacy’s wedding in 2013. He was able to do peritoneal dialysis at home every day for almost 7 years (an amazing record). Over the last few months, the procedure was unfortunately not doing its job. He did not want to go on hemodialysis, so they tried several different medications and solutions. After gaining 30 pounds of water weight, he had no choice.
During these months, we decided to sell our home and move to a retirement community nearer to our daughter. In mid-July, we moved to Fellowship Square Mesa. The people here are wonderful – both the residents and the staff. It has been a blessing. The dialysis center is near the property instead of the 20 minute drive we were used to.
As we were packing and moving, Fraser went to the emergency room for congestive heart failure. He was in the hospital for four days. Because of COVID restrictions, we could only communicate over the phone. It was frustrating and stressful. After we moved, he continued to fail. During those five months, he enjoyed seeing his grandsons every week. They made him laugh every time. We saw Kacy on her birthday and celebrated Thanksgiving. It was a day of good memories. On December 1st, we called EMT’s because he could not get up; he was coughing and very weak. We only talked on the phone after he was taken to the emergency room. He spent a week in the hospital and more than a week at a rehab center. There were no visitors allowed in the rehab center, so again, we could only communicate by phone.
On December 17, I got a call that he was going back to the emergency room. Congestive heart failure, pneumonia, and COVID were too much for his body. Kacy and I were together when the doctor called that afternoon. He passed peacefully to a better place to spend Christmas.Friday January 15
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Remembering Joseph "Joe" A. Salz
Joseph A. Salz, age 90, known far and wide for his good humor and his pure singing voice, passed away Oct. 25, in Gilbert, Arizona. Joe was a loving husband to Jean for 62 years, until her death in 2014. Together they had eight children, who were raised to know that family is everything, to live with honesty and integrity, and that it is best not to sweat the small stuff.
Joe was born in 1930 in Dubuque, Iowa and moved to Arizona in 1950. He lived in the Phoenix area most of his life, with a few years in Southern California and later, Sacramento. His career successes included sales and managing credit unions. Joe was also a lifelong, card-carrying Diehard Cubs Fan.
Joe Salz first joined the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) with the Hollywood Chapter in 1948. He sang lead as a member of an organized quartet for most of the next 72 years. Dad won the Far Western District (FWD) Championship with the Desert Knights (1957) and Stage Four (1972); his quartets qualified to compete at the international competition many times, with his highest placement being 11th in 1964 with the Coastliners. He also was an International BHS chorus champion with the Phoenicians in 1972. Joe was inducted into the FWD Hall of Fame in 2002, not just for his singing, but for many years of service to the FWD and his local chapters, such as Phoenix, South Bay, Sacramento, and Sun Cities.
In barbershop, Joe was most proud of performing with the Desert Knights. Joe, Chuck Rastatter(best friends since 1936), Sam Aramian (FWD and BHS HOF), and Lloyd Steinkamp (FWD and BHS HOF), were registered as a quartet just shy of 50 years when Lloyd died in January 2007. The Desert Knights were one of the most popular barbershop comedy acts ever, performing in shows all over the USA and Canada, up until receiving a standing ovation in their last show in 2005. In their last years, they were joined on stage with the Knight Nurses (their wives), who provided first aid during performances with comedic effect. Along with their (many) children, the Knights were one big family of love. Joe was never happier than when surrounded by family and friends, playing cards, enjoying a martini, and woodshedding with other barbershoppers. This past January, he was able to do just that as many turned out for his 90th birthday party. The only thing that would have made the day better was to have Jean at his side.
Joe is survived by his children, Sandy Salz-Johnson, Don (Rosye) Salz, Kathy Dean, Rick (Aly) Salz, Laurie (Jim) Hopkins, Jay Salz and Annette Lien. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean, and daughter Beverly (Charlie) Cunningham. Joe has 20 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Evie (Jerry) Miller and Phyllis Martin.
A celebration of life is being planned for January. Memorial donations can be made in Joe’s name to Harmony Foundation International. Messages to the family may be left at Ever Loved.
Joe was always ready with a smile, a joke and a song. In Joe’s memory, please do something unusually nice for yourself: have a top-shelf drink, tee it up at a great golf course, enjoy a meal at a fine restaurant, or have a macadamia nut banana split for dinner! Your happiness is the best way to honor Joe’s memory.
Friday October 30
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In Memoriam 2018
Join us as we honor our FWD brothers in song who joined the Chapter Eternal in 2018.
Peter Miller
William Lemley
James Herrington
Ralph Musalo
Donald Bachman
David Laubscher
Andrew Waits
Noel Mau
Glenn Langdon
Jimmie Eacret
Brian Harmon
Thomas Slater
Edwin Schoemann
Donnell Miller
Stanley Elkjer
William Edmondson
Bruce Robin
Gary Greene
Max Frickey
Richard Remmers
Ralph Holsinger
Robert Bird
Ted Petersdorf
Henry Groves
William Relf
W. Wilcox
Gordy LeesIf our list does not include your friend or loved one, please contact the membership records team at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .Wednesday August 22
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Bill Johnson celebration of life
Long-time barbershopper Bill Johnson passed away peacefully on May 16, 2018. He enjoyed his long life, and filled it with love for his family, and of course, his love for music.
Friday August 03
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Dave Zorn 1944-2018
Long-time barbershopper, author, and award winning CBS Radio journalist Dave Zorn has joined the Chapter Eternal. A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, September 29 in Phoenix.
Friday August 03
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Milt Christensen 1932 - 2018
Milt Christensen, lead of the 1972 Gold Medal Quartet Champion Golden Staters has passed.
Friday July 20
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Former FWD President Carl Truman joins Chapter Eternal
RENO, Nev., May 7 - Carleton Richard (Carl) Truman, former FWD President and 48-year member of the Reno and Las Vegas chapters, was born on June 3, 1923 in Detroit, Michigan and passed away at age 94 on May 7, 2018 in Reno, Nevada.
Monday May 07
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In Memoriam 2017
Join us as we honor our FWD brothers in song who joined the Chapter Eternal in 2017.
Dean Hunt
James Campbell
Garth Wilson
Raymond Bizzigotti
Paul Kelley
William Legg
William Johnson
Robert Donald
Donald Gubbins
Frank Word
Ray Ashcroft
Delbert Gwin
Frank Tillou
Jack Story
Verne Bagby
John Mininger
Marvin Peterson
Lambuth Cox
Fred Moraga
James Lee
Bob Bauer
Ralph Behling
Ronald Mortimer
Dale Adams
J Keith Murphy
Ken Nelson
Lelan Stahl
William Peck
Conrad Keil
Fred Robirds, Jr
Dean Sowell
Donald Bott
Norman Bryan
Chas Walton
Donald Hickinbotham
Jeffery Baker
Robert Durbin
Nathan Smith
James Summers
Robert Caraway
Harry ThompsonIf our list does not include your friend or loved one, please contact the membership records team at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .Monday January 01
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Conrad (Connie) Keil
Conrad (Connie) Keil, Tucson Chapter member, coach, and mentor passed away Tuesday, May 30. He had been struggling with cardiac issues and advanced dementia.
Connie was a 50-year barbershopper, singer in more quartets than anyone knows, a director of several choruses, including the Houston Tidelanders (SWD), who earned an International Silver Medal under his leadership. He also was a respected Presentation Judge and coach to many choruses and quartets. He was a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society's Board of Directors and the Southwest District Hall of Fame.
There have been some requests for information about funeral, visitation, possibly singing, etc. I can tell you that Connie will not have a traditional funeral or visitation. His wife Kathy is possibly planning some sort of memorial "celebration of life" later in the summer, perhaps August. Plans are sketchy, but right now it looks as though it will be a small gathering with a few friends and may or may not involve planned singing. We will post more information as it becomes available.
Tuesday June 20
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Don Gubbins
JUNE 3, 2017 — It is with great regret that we need to inform the district of the passing of Past District President Donald Gubbins. Don was also the lead in the 1975 Far Western District Quartet Champion San Francisco Storm Door & Whale Oil Co. and a Presentation Judge.
Donald Whitney Gubbins died peacefully at his home in Cameron Park, CA, on June 2, 2017, at the age of 83. Don is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan Gubbins; his four children - Deborah Curlanis (Mark Harvis), Taffi Ozenne, Donald W. Gubbins, Jr. (Nancy), and Pamela Imbesi (Frank); his 6 grandchildren - Hilary McDaniel (Jeff Armbrecht), Dominic Ozenne (Nicole), Jacob Gubbins, Kirstin Shipe, Lucas Gubbins, and Parker Shipe; and by his four great grandchildren, Hayden and Ethan Ozenne and Declan and Keller Armbrecht.
A fourth generation Californian, Don was born January 12, 1934 in Stockton, CA, to John and Jeneffee (Morrison) Gubbins. He attended Stockton High, Stockton College and San Francisco State University.
In 1954, Don married his high school sweetheart Joan Kline. The family moved to the Bay Area in 1972, and in 1989, Don and Joan moved to Cameron Park, in El Dorado County where Don retired in 1997 after 21 years with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company.
After his family and friends, Don's greatest loves were sports and music. In younger years, he loved bowling, baseball, and basketball. Don was a member of the Stockton YMCA 1954-55 basketball team. He was especially honored when the team was inducted into the Stockton Athletic Hall of Fame in 2005.
Don was an active and dedicated 48-year member of the Barbershop Harmony Society in the Vacaville, Stockton, Peninsula, Placerville and Sacramento Chapters over the years. Don was most well known in Barbershop for his many years as lead with the San Francisco Storm Door & Whale Oil Company.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for August 13, 2017, 12:00 p.m. at the Cameron Park Community Center, 2502 Country Club Dr., Cameron Park, CA 95682. Lunch will be served.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations "In Memory of Donald W. Gubbins" to The Harmony Foundation, 110 7th Avenue North, Ste. 200, Nashville, TN 37203 or via their website at www.harmonyfoundation.org.
The family would like to thank all of Don's amazing caregivers at Snowline Hospice of El Dorado County for their care and dedication in Don's final weeks.
A video tribute to the San Francisco Storm Door & Whale Oil Co. (1975)
Video courtesy of AFWDC
Saturday June 03
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Jack Raymond Story
Jack Raymond Story, who passed away on January 2, 2017 at the age of 82, was truly a "Music Man." Jack loved barbershop singing, playing tenor saxophone and other reed instruments, and singing and directing both choral and handbell music in church. He shared his love of music with his wife Shirley, his three children, Ray, Gayla, and Lydia, with his friends, and with the community.
Jack was one of the founding members and first director of the current Palomar Pacific Chapter (The Music Men Chorus) when it was formed in Fallbrook, California as the Avocado Empire Chapter in the mid 1950's. Over the years, he served as director several times and held all of the various officer positions at one time or another, most recently serving as chapter president in 2015. Jack also sang tenor in the popular 4 City 4 comedy quartet.
Jack was also an accomplished tenor saxophonist, playing in dance bands, community concert bands, and at community theater venues. His talents were not limited to performing music -- he also wrote the score and lyrics for several musical compositions.
A lifelong resident of Fallbrook, where he worked managing fruit and avocado groves, Jack was very active in the local historical society. He published a book of his memories growing up in Fallbrook during World War II, and he also wrote historical articles for the local newspaper.
Current and alumni members of The Music Men Chorus joined to sing "Irish Blessing" to honor Jack Story at his memorial service on January 9. He was the spirit and guiding light of the chapter and will be missed, but not forgotten.
Tuesday January 17
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In Memoriam 2016
Join us as we honor our FWD brothers in song who joined the Chapter Eternal in 2016.
Barrie Best
Norman Boone
Emmett Bossing
Lynn Brittan
Robert Clark
Jack Edwards
Edward Graff
Spencer Graves
Bill Henderson
James Holder
Bill Jackson
John Johansen
Russell Le Blanc
David Lyman
Gary Moulin
Marlin Niesley
Bob Patterson
Richard Schulze
Stan Sharpe
Gene Slingerland
Clarence Stover
Campbell Titchener
Jerrold Valencia
Ricardo Walker
Gary Washburn
Frank Wilken
William WilliamsIf our list does not include your friend or loved one, please contact the membership records team at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .Sunday January 01
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Lynn Arthur “Britt” Brittan
Lynn Arthur "Britt" Brittan joined the Chapter Eternal on Saturday, September 3, 2016 in Sebastopol, Calif.
Britt was the Far Western District President in 1970-1971, International Board Member from 1972 to 1975, and served many years as Chairman of the FWD Ethics Committee until his passing. He was inducted into the FWD Hall of Fame in 1979 and was awarded FWD Judge Emeritus in 1986 for his many years in C&J in the "Balance & Blend" Category.
Britt was a tenor in a registered quartet called "Just One More Song". This quartet performed for over 15 years in the Santa Rosa area with the original four members of the quartet (Wayne Hovdesven - Lead, Dan Schell - Baritone, and Mike Stewart - Bass). He will be dearly missed in the Santa Rosa Chapter.
He leaves behind, "The Love of His Live", Meg, his wife of 38 years, his adored daughter, Dale Dumiak (Chris) of Chico, his grandson Grant Wiems of Tucson, AZ, stepson Dave Bell (Kathy) of Sebastopol and their two sons Carter and Dawson, and a step-daughter, Carol Bell of Huntington Beach. He was a graduate of Univ. of California and worked as a soil conservationist until retirement. Britt was preceded in death by his dear daughter, Susan Wiems, and his brother, Martin Brittan.
The Santa Rosa Chapter will be devoting their weekly rehearsal on Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 7:30 PM to the "Celebration of Life" for Britt. The chapter meets at the New Vintage Church, 3300 Sonoma Ave. in Santa Rosa Calif.
At his request, donations may be made in his name to the Redwood Chordsmen, Santa Rosa Chapter, 556 Danby Court, Petaluma, CA 94954.
Thursday September 22
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Deane Scoville
We are sad to announce the passing of FWD Hall Of Fame member and past District President Deane Scoville. Deane has been a fixture in the FWD for decades, and a tireless volunteer for the betterment of our District and the Society. He was inducted into the FWD Hall Of Fame in 2003, served as District President and Dean of Harmony College West, was a Super Senior Quartet Champ, and was honored as Barbershopper Of The Year for both the Fullerton and South Bay chapters.
Details about Deane's memorial service are below, as well as a link to Deane's 2003 FWD Hall Of Fame biography:
Dear Family and Friends,
This morning our beloved Dad and Grandpa was called home to be with God. We are so grateful for the 93 years he had in this life, and that we all had the good fortune to enjoy his love, his laughter, and his song. The last couple of weeks were very difficult for him, and it was also hard on Mom and the rest of the family to see him suffer, so we are thankful that he is now at peace. Mom is handling this so well, in the way that only a good Midwestern woman could, and we were able to spend today with her as a family, which was indeed special.
Thanks to all of you for the prayers and love you have shown to Dad and to our family. We are calmed and humbled in knowing that we -- and especially Mom -- can count on your support in the future.
We are planning a very special celebration of Dad's life on Saturday, January 10 at 11:00 A.M. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Cypress to be followed by a luncheon, and of course you are all invited.
Sending peace and love to all,
Carol and Paul
Richard and Susan
Susan, Joe and family
Laura, Casey and familyDeane Scoville, FWD Hall of Fame (2003)
Update 5-Jan-2015
Here are the plans for Deane's services which are scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 11:00 AM:
Location:
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church
5895 Ball Rd
Cypress, CA 90630The Fullerton Chapter and other barbershoppers will close the service with:
- Ride The Chariot
- Let There Be Peace On Earth
The services are scheduled for 11:00. Gather at 10:00 if you wish to rehearse the songs. Copies of the two songs will be available for members of other chapters who my choose to join us.
Tuesday December 23
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Remembering Doug Maddox
FRESNO, CA (October 11, 2015) — On Friday evening, Nick Papageorge presented a golden broom, in memory of Doug Maddox, that will be present at all future District Contests, and used to sweep the stage as we all fondly remember Doug doing for many years.
Tonight, FWD President Allan Webb unveiled a plaque in honor of Doug, that will be at the podium for all future FWD Contests.
"The Stage will Never Quite Be the Same Without
DOUG PUSHING THE BROOM
With Love and Remembrance"
"In Memory of Doug Maddox"# # #
Saturday October 11
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Paul Silva
Paul Steven Silva was born in Cambridge, Mass. to Juvenal and Wilhelmina da Silva. He died in San Luis Obispo at the age of 79.
After high school, he joined the U.S. Army and served in the 11th Airborne Division. After military service, he began work for the Southern California Gas Co. Paul co-founded the Gold Coast Chorus (San Luis Obispo Chapter) and directed it for many years.
He is dearly missed by his wife Sharon; children Terri, René, Barry, Jay and Paul; grandkids Justin, John, Katie, Natasha, Jake, Nicole, Derrick, Logan and Jordan; great grandkids Jayden, Linken, William and Alexander; and siblings Delores and Babe.
Please come and gather with us for a pot-luck Celebration of Life at The Grange Hall at 2880 Broad Street in San Luis Obispo on Saturday, September 13, 2014 from 12-3 PM.
Sign his guestbook at sanluisobispo.com/obituaries
Monday September 01
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Doug Maddox
The Far Western District and the BHS have lost an icon. Doug Maddox, a fixture in both District and Society event production for decades and a show tech genius, has lost his multi-year battle with cancer.
Beyond his technical skills and organizational abilities in the event space, Doug was one of the nicest guys you'd ever meet, and was well known for his wordplay and puns/stories which were used to great effect in Masters Of Harmony shows.
Many barbershoppers will remember Doug sweeping up the stage after particularly messy quartet or chorus performances involving confetti, to the chants of "Doug! Doug! Doug!" from the crowd.
We are all saddened by his loss, and send our sincerest condolences to his wife, Jan.
Saturday July 19
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Jean Salz
Jean Salz, 84, of Sun City, Arizona, passed away peacefully Monday, March 24, 2014, surrounded by her husband, family and friends.
Jean was the wife of long-time barbershopper, Joe Salz, lead of the 1957 FWD Quartet Champion Desert Knights. In later years, she and the other wives became a part of the quartet's act, appearing as the Knight Nurses.
Jean was born to Cecil and Alice Stephenson in Shelburn, Indiana, July 28, 1929, and first moved to Phoenix in 1939. She married Joseph A. Salz in 1952, and together they raised a large family and enjoyed many friendships throughout their lives, many through the barbershop quartet association. Jean will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, love of children and giving heart.
Jean is survived by her husband Joe, and seven children: Sandy Salz-Johnson, of Phoenix, Don (Rosye) Salz, of Las Vegas; Kathy (Brett) Dean of Vancouver, WA; Rick (Alyson) Salz of Oregon City, OR; Laurie (Jim) Hopkins, of Phoenix; Jay Salz, of Portland, OR; and Annette (Brian) Lien of Goodyear. She was preceded in death by daughter Beverly (Charlie) Cunningham, her brothers Bill, Bob and Don Stephenson, and sister Alice Marie Trueblood. Jean will also be missed by her 20 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
A memorial Mass will be held Friday, March 28, 11:30 am, St. Clement of Rome, 15800 Del Webb Blvd., Sun City. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Harmony Foundation International, Inc., 110 Seventh Ave. N., Suite 200, Nashville, TN 37203.
Visit Jean's Guest Book: View | Sign
Wednesday March 26
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Bob Calderwood
In a message from Mark Sheldon ...
I have the sad duty to let you know that our fellow barbershopper Bob Calderwood passed away Tuesday night, March 18, 2014. My understanding is that he had been readmitted to the hospital earlier that day for treatment of complications from chemotherapy, and passed from apparent heart failure.
Bob was a central figure in the Orange Quartet, Fullerton, and most recently South (Orange) County Chapters, as a singer (including more organized quartets than I can name offhand) as well as a chapter leader and event organizer. The Orange Chapter certainly owes many improvements in our programs, and has greater public visibility today, thanks to his initiatives.
If I may add a personal note, it was a real pleasure and honor to sing with Bob in the Wavemakers quartet and in other quartet combinations. He was a great singing partner, collaborator, and friend.
The Memorial Service will be held:
Monday, March 24, 2014
Starting at 11:00 am, at
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
9801 S. Newport Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92705Here's a link to the location that I've found on Google Maps
Let's all keep Bob's wife Carol and all his loved ones in our thoughts and prayers.
Best to all
MarkMark Sheldon
PR VP, Orange Quartet Chapter SPEBSQSA
orange.harmonize.comP. S. Anyone with remembrances of Bob that they would like to share with the Orange Chapter and allow to be published (including possible posting on our website), are welcome to send them to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Thank you!Saturday March 22
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Jerry Fairchild
From Steve Goebel:
It is with a heavy heart I report the loss of my dear friend, and Father-in-Law, Jerry Fairchild. Jerry passed in his sleep, quietly and peacefully at around 7:30 Pacific Time. He is survived by his loving wife Maureen. Mom is doing very well, comforted by family and dear loved ones, and she has peace in the knowledge that absent the body is present with the Lord. Jerry finished well and he will rest in peace eternally.
Jerry sang Tenor in the 1964 Int'l Champion Quartet, the Sidewinders, from the Riverside Citrus Belters; Riverside Chapter. In later years, Jerry sang and published Gospel works with The Good News Gospel, Barbershop Quartet, and most recently in One Accord with my buddy Kevin Soto. Always a regular at the Harmony for Lunch Bunch, Jerry never missed an opportunity to sing (and wave his arms up front – if they would let him – sometimes even when they didn't).
Jerry always said the best thing about Barbershop was the Encouragement part, and he always did his best to encourage anyone around to sing better. He was singing strong and clear even as recently as Christmas and I bet he got a good spot in the Choirs of Heaven. He's probably telling them all how already.
Mom is preparing a more complete obituary and details of memorial services will be posted in the coming days. Thanks for prayers and well wishes. You are good friends and we love you.
Obituary
Jerry was born in Gary, Indiana to Luzerne and Mildred Fairchild on May 3, 1931. He was raised in Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska. He graduated from Northeast High School and spent his first year of college in Lincoln and then moved to Arizona. He received his Bachelor's at Arizona State. He taught for a couple of years in Arizona and then moved to Fontana, where he taught for several years and spent some time in school administration. He received his Master's at Cal State Los Angeles and later his Doctorate at UCLA.
During this time, he met and married Katherine Nicholson who had two children. After his teaching career, he sold real estate for 8 years. After that, he bought a franchise of the Reading Game which turned in Brittanica Learning Center. When that was over, he bought a franchise of Sylvan Learning Center. He always felt that was the best 14 years of his career.
He got involved in Barbershop Quartet singing and formed a quartet while in college in Arizona. The fraternity quartet won a contest on the campus. While in California, he directed the Riverside Citrus Belters Chorus. He took them to 3 District Championships and 3 international 5th place medals.
During his years in Barbershop, he sang in many quartets. In 1961, he met Joe Daniels, who had just moved out from New York. Jerry was singing in the Sidewinders quartet at the time and Joe joined to sing the lead. They sang together with Jerry singing the Tenor. They went on to win the international contest in 1964. After the Sidewinders retired, they went on to sing with the R.S.V.P. quartet for several years. After they retired, Jerry sang in several other quartets.
Jerry was very involved in his Church and in the community. After Joe's passing and Katerine's death, Jerry married Joe's widow, Maureen. They had known each other for many years.
Jerry is survived by his wife Maureen, his children, Richard Nicholson (Selma), Diana Heemstra (John), Suzanne Goebel (Steve), Kathleen Brenneman (Bill), Joseph Daniels (Becky),Scott Daniels (Maureen), 17 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. He will be missed by his family and his many friends.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of life for Jerry Fairchild will be hald Saturday, April 12, 11:00 am, at the First Congregational Church of Redlands. The church is located at 2 West Olive in Redlands, California. A reception will follow at the church hall.
A rememberance page has been set up on Facebook. If you have a Facebook account, you can link to it here.
Facebook: Jerry Fairchild Remembered
Sidewinders, 1964 International Champion
Thursday March 13
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Floyd Thaller
Floyd Thaller was a long time member of the Whittier Chapter and held several offices including President. He was Far Western District Secretary for seven years. In his professional career he was a teacher for many years. Floyd had a wonderful dry wit and used it to the delight of all in speeches at chapter installations as well as district events as an Emcee.
Floyd and his wife, Libby had moved to assisted living in Duarte, California, and had been living there for several years. Very recently, Floyd was given the news that he had cancer.
A group of barbershoppers from the Whittier, Brea, Fullerton and Pasadena chapters recently gathered to sing for him, his family and many other appreciative residents of the home. Floyd was awake but did not respond.
Floyd died peacefully at 5:30 AM, January 14. His memorial service is to be at 1:00 PM, January 21, in the All Saints Episcopal Church, 132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101. (626) 796-1172.
Libby would very much hope that we can find a quartet to sing the Irish Blessing at some point in the service. She did not want a chorus to sing, but something a bit more intimate. It is preferred that the quartet not come in costume but would fit into the congregation just as Floyd always did, anywhere he went. Please contact Steve Peacock at (626) 282-2852 all if you have four gents that can be there to sing.
Wednesday January 15
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Jerry Orloff
Jerry Orloff, an internationally known barbershop quartet singer and teacher, passed away at his home in Aptos on October 25 after a lengthy struggle with vascular dementia. He was 82. Jerry, who shared his passion for four-part harmony with his wife, Kim, was inducted into the International Barbershop Society’s Hall of Fame in 2011.
As a member of the Mixed Metafour Quartet (a unique coed mixed barbershop quartet with his wife plus Bev Wesley of Aptos and several other men who sang the lead part between 1984 and 2012), Jerry performed and shared his love of singing throughout the world, with appearances in New Zealand, Australia, England, Sweden, Wales and Russia as well as across the United States. In 2001 Jerry and Kim created an additional quartet with another couple, Brian and Holly Beck, of Dallas, Texas. This quartet, Hao Yun Qui, was specifically formed to teach the barbershop style in China; they made several trips there from 2001 to 2003, teaching at universities and senior organizations in Northern China. The quartet taught standard American songs in English as well as several native Chinese folk songs which they had arranged in barbershop style and learned in the original Mandarin.
Jerry was also a member of the local Santa Cruz Chapter of SPEBSQSA, also known as the Gold Standard Chorus. He participated in many of their shows (both in the chorus and with his quartet), as well as singing “Valengrams” every February, and Christmas carols in shopping centers every December.
While music was the center of his life, Jerry also was a devoted father of four who shared his love for the outdoors and fishing with sons Dan, Randy, Mike and Barry. From the time they could walk he went with them on fishing and houseboat trips... a family tradition which continued throughout his lifetime. He was no stranger in the kitchen, making fantastic chicken matza-ball soup and sharing with all his sons his unique talent for pickling cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes and whole watermellons. Jerry’s other passions included photography and anything Minnesota - often torn between his love of the Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers. He was an avid hockey fan, and was a play-by-play radio announcer for the St. Paul Saints in the early 1960’s. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Jerry moved with his family to Daly City, CA in 1963. There he owned and operated a paint and art supply store with his parents Solly and Florence Orloff for nearly 20 years. He moved to Aptos in 1983, and soon thereafter retired from sales in order to work full-time sharing the joy of singing harmony.
Jerry’s family will join many local barbershop singers for a musical celebration of his life at 2pm on November 23 at Felton Community Hall, 6191 Hwy 9, Felton CA. Besides Kim, his wife of 30 years, Jerry is survived by his first wife Terry Martin of Santa Clara, CA; his sons and their wives, Dan and Sherené Orloff of San Jose, CA; Mike and Julie Orloff of Greenville, CA; Randy Orloff of Alameda, CA; his grandsons Lieutenant Benjaman Orloff and his wife JoEllen Orloff of Ridgecrest, CA; Nate Orloff, of Los Angeles, CA; Travis Orloff, of San Jose, CA; his great granddaughter, Ella Rose Orloff; and his brother and sister-in-law, Mickey and Sue Orloff of Foster City, CA. He is also survived by members of his barbershop quartet family: Mixed Metafour/Mixed Bag leads Paul Eastman, Elmer Fairbanks, Ed Tyler, Steve Sammonds, Steve Bishop, and Bill McCain, baritone Kim Orloff, and tenors Bev Wesley and Jackie Bishop. Jerry’s harmonies also continue on in the lives of many barbershop singers throughout the world. If you would like to light a candle and share your condolences with his family, please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com
Remembrances in his name may be made to Young Men in Harmony/Harmony Foundation International (www.harmonyfoundation.org) at 110 7th Ave North, Suite 200, Nashville, TN 37203.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2013 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Felton Community Hall, 6191 Highway 9, Felton, CA 95018. Information and Directions
Sunday October 27
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