On Tuesday evening, July 17th, Mark Hannon, "the Blues Cannon", died of lung cancer. For years, Mark has been a fixture on the Chicago blues and club scene. He was a masterful harmonica player and singer, who had performed with many blues artists, among them James Cotton and Otis Spann. He was also a great singer and an entertaining front man with his own bands, most recently with the Fabulous Fishheads.

Along with his great talent, Mark had a great heart. Although most Mudcatters never had the pleasure of meeting him, I'd like to include a brief note that he wrote and that is posted on the web, regarding a benefit that was held this March in Chicago to help pay some of the mounting medical costs. I think it provides a glimpse of the type of man he was.

"I don't know if I would be able to recreate the tireless and clever work to pull together an event of this magnitude. Also the underlying love and good feelings of all people I do and do not know. This goodwill has actually been scientifically documented: Not to mention the love of my immediate family Jane, Katie and Nikki and biological family brothers sisters and parents. This love arises unbeknownst, even to itself. Prayer comes into play at times like this. I pray every day. But I talk to God more intensely when a situation like this arises. I am not a religious man but a spiritual one. I call upon all souls, living or dead, to think of me at this time, and to say a prayer for me. I, in turn will return these prayers in time. My overwhelming gratitude belongs to ALL forever.
Thank you everyone.
Mark Hannon"

Mark Hannon was a fine musician and a truly nice man who will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. He was 54.