Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)(funeral 17 Dec)

Subject: Mark Longster is critically ill
From: GUEST,Roger Knowles
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 08:04 AM

Just heard 20 minutes ago, from a friend, that Mark Longster, folkie of renown in the Harrogate/Otley, Yorkshire, UK areas has been admitted to Harrogate District Hospital and is not expected to recover. Sad news indeed.

---

Funeral Thread (click)

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 09:32 AM

So sorry to hear about this. Anahata and I met him at Henshaws a couple of months back. Our thoughts are with his family.

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 09:36 AM

Sorry to hear this. Nothing to say really except I hope his passing will be painless and peaceful.

Blessings
Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: r.padgett
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 10:51 AM

Yes sorry to hear this

Mark had been part of Copper Kettle with Michael for a while and missed Saddleworth ff last year due to illness

A really nice bloke

Ray

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: HipflaskAndy
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 11:08 AM

Devestating news.
It was Mark's friendliness, advice, encouragement and help
that got me started in folk again after a 25 year absence.

My thoughts & prayers are with him and his family.

Duncan McFarlane

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: GUEST,Tom Bliss
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 11:49 AM

I'll echo Duncan exactly because Mark encouraged me in the same way. He also offered me invaluable advice and loyalty. A lovely warm man, with one of the loveliest warmest voices. Tom

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: BusyBee Paul
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 12:31 PM

Damn, that is NOT what I wanted to hear.

My thoughts and prayers are with both Mark and Michael, gentlemen in all senses of the word.

Deirdre

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: GUEST,Michael Longster
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 03:27 PM

With great saddness,im sorry to inform all friends ,that Mark sadly passed away earlier this evening.He will be greatly missed,by all family and friends.I loved him very much. from his brother Michael.

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 04:20 PM

He will be missed by all who new him, a great guy and a great song writer,

Subject: Mark Longster R.I.P.
From: snapperspike
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 04:22 PM

It is with the greatest sadness, and profound sorrow, that I have to inform the many people who had the pleasure to know him, and admire him of the passing today, at 5.00pm of Mark Longster, of Copper Kettle, ex of Early Doors, The Backroom Boys, and many many other bands.
He was my best friend, mentor, and like a brother.
"He was a man, and a friend allways"
Anyone wishing to know of arrangements etc please contact me at :-
[e-mail]

I miss you brother, and we WILL meet again one day.

Spike.

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: smurf
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 04:26 PM

A sad loss indeed, I didn't know him as well as i would have liked to, but loved his songs

Subject: RE: Mark Longster very, very ill
From: GerryMc
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 04:34 PM

A sad loss indeed. He will be sadly missed by all at otley folk club and by all whe knew him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 05:47 PM

So sorry to hear this- I have met Mark at several festivals over the years - a fine musician and a thoroughly nice chap.Gods speed Mark.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 05:54 PM

Hey that's really sad.
I've so missed him not being around this past year or so, but I felt privileged to have known him - and yes, been inspired by him.
Such a lovely guy, a fine (if not exactly prolific) songwriter as well as warm, mellow singer, and so generous with his encouragement.
Honky tonk heaven's gettin' mighty crowded these days.
RIP, friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,old girl
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 07:52 PM

This is such sad news He will be missed so much, our Prayers are with his family.
Rose & dave

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Tyke
Date: 05 Dec 09 - 10:25 PM

I'm lossed for words and saddend I shall have to Focus on all the good times. My thoughts are with his family

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: flush
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 05:04 AM

I spent many happy years as the other half of Early Doors we played some wonderful music together, Rest in Peace my friend.

Iain

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 05:10 AM

Sorry people, I inadvertantly put my email address down wrongly.
Anyone wishing to know details of the arrangements, mail me at :-

[e-mail].

I will let you know as soon as I can.

Thanks.

Iain, sorry about leaving you a message, but didn't have any other contact number.

Cheers

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: flush
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 05:53 AM

Spike

I will call you later on the land line

Iain

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Kath & Paul Reade
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 06:09 AM

So sorry to hear this. Mark had a beautiful voice and character to match. Our deep sympathy - Kath & Paul (Reade)

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Chris and Stephanie Emmett
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 07:50 AM

Although we didn't know Mark very well, we admired him as a wonderful singer and a dignified gentleman. He's an example to us all.

Chris and Steph Emmett

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 08:18 AM

Thank you to all who have expressed their feelings both on here and via emails, I am sure Karen will be as suprised at the number and kindness of the response so far as I am.
I will keep all informed as soon as there is any news.

Many thanks

Take care

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 08:40 AM

I should perhaps have said also, that if anyone wants an address to send cards etc if they mail me, I will send it out.
Thanks again

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: treewind
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 08:41 AM

Here's a video of a recent performance by Mark: www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW-80klABFk

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Pistachio
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 10:02 AM

Sad news indeed. I met him a few times in recent years at Saddleworth and Cleckheaton with Michael.

Just about to listen again to his 'Looking back' CD

Please accept my condolences.

Hazel.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: muppitz
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 11:18 AM

I've just read an e-mail from Mike, as soon as I saw the subject line I feared the worst.
I met Mark through his escapades with Mike in Copper Kettle, a jolly nice chap, a delightfully dry sense of humour and a good musician!
When you meet someone like that and then find out they are ill you always hope and pray they will get through it, sadly another miracle has gone begging.

At least Colin Kemp's got some work to do letting another one into the big folk club in the sky!

Mark will be missed this year and every other.

muppitz
x

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: SylviaN
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 11:38 AM

Too soon. Lovely warm hearted man, lovely warm voice.

My condolences to all his family and all who were close to him.


Sylvia
x

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 12:33 PM

I am trying to get an announcement on the Durbervilles radio show tonight, but will not be able to listen myself, could anyone inform me if it's on at all ??
Thanks

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Karen and Caitlin Longster
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 12:39 PM

We have just read your lovely messages and have been very touched by the kind words and happy memories people have of Mark.

He was a wonderful dad and husband and will be greatly missed by us all. No doubt we will see many of you at the funeral and give his a good send off. Thank you Spike for keeping everyone informed and being there for us! You were Marks best bud!

Take care x

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Anne Brivonese
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 01:44 PM

So sorry to hear this; I'll always remember Mark's beautiful voice singing powerful songs, especially his own. His family are in my prayers.
'Gone to Sea' indeed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Joules
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 02:27 PM

So sorry to hear about this, why is it always the nice ones. Mark will be sadly missed by many, my thoughts to family and friends.
Julie

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 03:46 PM

Sadly Mark is no longer with us. Older brother to Janet, brother in law to Tony and Uncle to Colette and Michelle. He will be missed by all who knew him. His love of Fishing and his passion for Music played a large part in his life. It is lovely to read all the messages that have been left by his friends. He was too young to leave us and will be sadly missed. x Sister Janet.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 04:09 PM

I have just read all the posts about my brother Mark. I am very touched that Mark made such an impression on so many people's lives.

Hopefully Mark and dad will be up their fishing together. I'll never forgot the joy on Mark's face when he caught his first fish and how proud Mum and dad where of him.

We where the 4 musketeers, now we are 3. Love you Mark.xxx

Karen & Caitlin you know we will always be there for you.

Your loving sister Susan, brother in law Derek, Faye and Byron xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Rasener
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 05:12 PM

I am so sorry to hear this tragic news.

All I can say is that I was privileged to put Mark on at Faldingworth Live as part of Copper Kettle, some 2 and a half years ago when Michael Forsyth had just parted from Brian Firth due to the pressure of his family illness.
Mark did a great job on the evening and Copper Kettle gave us a lovely evening.

Mark as part of Copper Kettle at Faldingworth Live

RIP Mark

Les Worrall

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 05:53 PM

I am glad to show a lovely email I have just had, from the producer and the guys at the Durberville show on radio Leeds :-

Hi Spike

Thanks for making us aware. As you may have heard we mentioned on air.
As we're not allowed to give out personal e-mails addresses on air we
directed listeners to ours, so if you could keep me informed I will pass
any details.

Many thanks for letting us know this sad news.

David Crickmore
Producer
BBC Leeds
The Durbervilles Folk & Roots Show
"Listen Again" at: www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/radio/bbc_radio_leeds

Thanks to Dave and the guys, Karen, his daughter Caitlin, the rest of his fantastic family and myself are gratefull.

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 09:00 PM

What a lovely mention of Uncle Mark on the Durbervilles Folk show. So great to hear how much he was admired and loved. Thinking of everyone who knew and loved him. He was an immensly brave man. Rest in peace Uncle Mark. Much love. Faye xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Chris Legge
Date: 06 Dec 09 - 10:11 PM

My wife Wendy and I met my cousin Mark when staying with his sister Susan in 1991 for a few days. W have a vivid memory of him as a very happy soul.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 04:44 AM

I am so glad that Marks family are pleased with this thread, and the Durbs announcement on their show.
It doesn't suprise ME the amount of people responding, he was so well respected and known, to many in our music community.

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: jimL
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 05:28 AM

I was very sorry to hear this news this morning.

As many others have said of their own relationship with Mark, he was one of the key people who gave me the confidence to sing in public.

He wrote some really great songs, too.

Jim Lawton

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,mic and susie darling
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 06:48 AM

Such sad news, our prayers are with his family,he was a true gent great musician and so brave. God Bless.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,GUEST Anne Martin
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 10:18 AM

Such very sad news. Otley Folk Club won't be the same without Mark and his great songs, we will really miss him. On a personal level Mark was always a guide and inspiration to me, as my son has lived with renal failure for the last 11 years and Mark showed how it was still possible to enjoy life.
My thoughts are with his family
Anne Martin

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: elmo 1
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 11:17 AM

myself eileen john & carol would like to offer our sincere condolances to family and freinds of mark what a lovely man who gave much joy to all who knew him

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Gerry C
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 11:42 AM

When I started back performing in 2003 after ten years ou, Mark was one the people who encouraged and supported me. A wonderful bloke: good singer, skilled on several instruments, wrote good songs: he will be greatly missed. My prayers are with his family.

Gerry C

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,colin and alison
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 11:54 AM

A very dear friend - we have many wonderful memories - will miss him so much - rip Mark our love Alison and Colin

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST, Mark's Grandma Joan
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 11:55 AM

So sad to hear of your sudden loss Caitlin. Thinking of you and yours. With love.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Louise Long (was Auty) ex Wharfedale Observe
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 05:52 PM

I met Mark at the Half Moon in Pool-in-Wharfedale where he was heavily involved in a brilliant session on Thursday evenings.
I'd seen him around at the many Folk Festivals I'd covered, but that was the first time I was introduced to him by Anne Jackson, with whom he performed such wonderful music.
A true gent, always friendly, always polite, always interested in what I'd been up to once I left the Wharfedale for the bright lights of London.
He will be very sadly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 05:53 PM

Just a reminder that if anyone wants an address for cards etc, that if you email me, I will provide it.

[e-mail]

Thank you all again for you kind thoughts.


Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Joe Nicholson
Date: 07 Dec 09 - 07:46 PM

I first knew Mark many years ago when we both worked for the same company. When he first began to play he would bring his guitar to the office and practice during lunch time. We little guessed then what a fine singer songwriter he would turn out to be. He was a great workmate much liked by everyone. Although our company closed in 1993 we always kept in touch through the folk scene. the pleasure of his company, singing and playing the fine songs he wrote was always a delight and Maureen and I will miss him a great deal.
I have been in touch with as many of our old workmates as I can to tell them the sad news. and we would all like Marks family to know we are thinking of them.

Joe Nicholson.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Karen Longster
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 12:41 AM

Thank you Joe for such a lovely tribute. Mark had many fond memories of his time spent at Octavius Atkinsons and the many friends that he made there. I have a lovely photograph of him, which must have been taken in the works office, in which he was obviously laughing at some joke or other!
I would also like to remember the members of the fishing crew, not least Alf and Brian. Again happy, if poignant, memories.

Karen

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: MoneyPenny
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 03:44 AM

Such sad news.A very special man. Many happy memories of his wonderful singing, his humour and his kindness. Sincere condolences to Karen and Caitlin and all Mark's family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 04:59 AM

This is such terribly sad news. My thoughts are with Mark's family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Mississippi Saxaphone
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 05:09 AM

My thoughts are with Mark's family.

Besides having known Mark for a number of years I had the pleasure of playing a couple of gigs with him.

He will truly be missed by all who knew him.


Tony(Bomber)Aked.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Chris Rawnsley
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 06:28 AM

Such a sad loss to the music world and all who knew him,Mark was a true gentleman,soft spoken,yet he sang with such power and feeling. Having played with Mark 5years as "Northern Lights" along with Anne Jackson you realize he sang from the heart in all he did. Thank goodness he made recordings for future generations to hear,especially his self penned songs. For me,as long as i have memory, Marks wonderful voice and songs will live forever.      My condolences to Karen,Caitlin and all the family.
                         also to Marks best buddy Spike.
                                              Chris.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 07:07 AM

I have spoken to Karen this morning, and the arrangements are now confirmed as follows :-

Thursday December 17th at 11.00 am
St Johns Church
Knaresborough.

And after at the

Cedar Court Hotel
Park Parade off Knaresborough Road
Harrogate
HG1 5AH


Karen has requested no flowers please, but donations to The local paliative nurses, and/or the Leeds Kidney Patients Association.

She thanks everybody for their kind wishes, and is very touched and moved by the warm tributes on this site. She told me it had "given her strength and kept her going, to know how loved and respected Mark was".

I would ask if everyone could spread the message, because it has become clear, that some people don't have access to this site or email, and so did not know the news untill seeing someone in person.So if you think someone might not be aware of these arrangements, please contact them.
I would like to thank everyone myself for their messages to me personally during this devastating period - Thanks people, it means a lot.


Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Steph & Mike
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 09:57 AM

Sorry to hear the sad news about Mark. He will be sadly missed by many. Our thoughts are with his family and Mick. The folk club in the sky is growing steadily with many of our friends. Sorry we will not be able to attend his final farewell.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Helen, Sean and Chloe Harte
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 11:36 AM

So many ways to describe Mark - fun, talented, sincere, warm, brave and just an all round top brother-in-law / Uncle / Friend. We will miss him so much and know he will get the fabulous send off he deserves by his family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Auntie Margaret and family
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 12:07 PM

So sad to hear of the loss of Mark, memories of him growing up and the last time I saw him singing at Northallerton, couldn't believe the talent he had. I will never forget him, god bless to you all.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Yvonne John and Clare Dyer
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 12:50 PM

We always felt very proud to see Mark perform. He was much loved and will be sadly missed. Love and warm thoughts sent to Karen and Caitlin. xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Jennie & Simon (STRID)
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 03:44 PM

Mark was a great inspiration to so many people and a wonderful performer. His kindness and support for others is well known. When we first started out as STRID his boundless enthusiasm for our material gave us the much needed 'kick' to get out and play again. He did this for so many people and it is just one part of his huge legacy.
So lets all keep playing/singing and he will still be there with us, loving every moment.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: Gillie
Date: 08 Dec 09 - 05:29 PM

So sorry to hear of this news. I first meet Mark at Otley festival and then later on he would visit The Globe Folk Club with Ann, not as a guest but because they liked the club. Mark your rich voice stood in line with your rich personality, you never ceased to amaze me with your zest for life and the music that you performed.

Rest well Mark, I'm proud to have counted you as one of my friends who could make a difference.
Clare

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 09 Dec 09 - 08:39 AM

Hi all, I have a request from Marks widow Karen regarding the funeral.
She requests that :-
"would like it if people wore at least one item of brightly coloured clothing to the funeral. Although I know that everyone will shed a lot more tears, we all want the day to be a celebration of Marks life."
Good on her and the family, cos knowing mosy of us musso types, that would be more in keeping with the peacock tendencies of most of you !!!
We also had some inquieries regarding taking instruments to Cedar Court after the service.
Karen is checking with the venue, and will get back to me as soon as she can.
Please spread the word, and thanks again for all your kindness and support.

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 10 Dec 09 - 04:31 AM

bttt

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Gloria
Date: 10 Dec 09 - 08:37 AM

Some fine tributes and reminiscences to Mark last night at Otley folk club.I cant claim to have known him well, but I do remember a very fine singer with an outstanding rich mellow voice.I hadnt prepared it, but at the last minute it occurred to me to sing the traditional Bahaman funeral song I Bid You Goodnight.It was good to hear people's various off-the-cuff reminiscences as they got up in turn to sing.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 10 Dec 09 - 09:08 AM

Thank you Gloria, I am sorry I couldn't stay, but it was a little much for me. I am sorry again, for missing the chance to talk to you, though I was stood next to you at one point talking to Ann !
I hoped the "folks" would make it a good night, most I spoke to seemed to want to.
I am still awaiting confirmation regarding instruments at the wake at Cedar Court, after the service, and will post as soon as I can.

Thanks to all

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 10 Dec 09 - 09:14 AM

I forgot to add this to the last message.
Some people have enquired about location/getting to the church.
Here's a link to their web site, and there is a map on there for you to see.
http://www.achurchnearyou.com/knaresborough-st-john-the-baptist/

Thanks all

Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,lady with voice&sillytrousers.
Date: 10 Dec 09 - 04:26 PM

No matter what Mark was always there for me eitherin person or the end of a phone line.Like many others after time out Mark got me back inti singing and performing , also encouraging daughter Becca to get up and give it a go.Many good times spent in Whitby in the Jolly Sailer with spike,who needed the proper festival on those nights!!/
A kinder ,gentle and talented man ive yet to meet I,m going to miss you so much Mark. Our thoughts are with Karen,Caitlin and family..Carol, John and Becca with our love.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Dec 09 - 10:59 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Dec 09 - 11:23 AM

Hello all. I have just received word from Marks widow Karen, that it is OK TO BRING INSTRUMENTS TO CEDAR COURT, on the condition, that NOTHING is done untill after people have eaten and had a chat, so LET'S 'AVE YER !!
Also below, is the obit that will appear in Tykes News in the spring addition.
Karen wanted it placed here and anywhere else people from out the area might read it.
Thank you all again

Spike



                        Mark Longster R.I.P.

It is with the greatest sadness, and profound sorrow, that I have to inform the many people who had the pleasure to know him, and admire him, of the passing on Dec 5th, of Mark Longster, after a short illness.
Beloved husband to Karen, and adored father to Caitlin, his leaving was very sudden, and too soon.
Many knew Mark was seriously ill, but this did not decrease the shock felt by the news.

He was known throughout the folk and country scene, for that "dark brown voice", which had effects on large members of the population not unlike a gallon of Babycham, and a kilo of chocolate !! The power and subtlety of that voice could take you from the highest high to the lowest low, from one song to another, whilst his soft and gentle manner between, lulled you into a false sense of security unprepared for the next vocal assault on your emotions. A velvet hammer.

I was proud to call him my best friend for many years, and to most that knew him, that would give you an idea of some of the amazing times we had playing together up and down the country over the years. He really WAS as laid back as he seemed (most of the time !), which led me to often say that "I'd wake him up when the next song started"!!

He was not only a good guitar player, but to my great envy and annoyance, played most instruments with strings on, including the mandolin, mandola, bouzouki, banjo and even the violin!!
He would practically have a hernia laughing at me, after frequently trying to show me how to play this circus of instruments, and my complete failure to be able to do so !

The encouragement of others.
There are lots of you out there, who I know, owe Mark a debt of gratitude for his encouragement and support in starting out playing in public, or coming back into performing. He was a firm believer in the open house style of sing arounds, regardless of the genre (well maybe excepting modern jazz, and boy bands !!) As such, he would cajole, persuade, and encourage, anyone with the wish to perform, and would even accompany them if necessary. He had time for everyone.

He was a firm supporter of many folk clubs, and visited as many as he could when health allowed, as long as he could "get a go", he'd go there. He was also well respected as an organiser of clubs and concerts, The popular Thursday night Mill Folk, at past and present venue, and the famous monthly concerts at Pannal, where the biggest names in folk were happy to come and perform because Mark was organising it ,were just two of the many venues he was involved in over the years, which I know many, many people have, and still, enjoy. He liked making people happy. He made a lot of people happy, especially when playing with other people.

Over the last few years, he has enjoyed fantastic partnerships with Michael Forsythe as Copper Kettle, with Ann Jackson and Chris Rawnsley as Northern Lights, with Iain Glover as Early Doors. With Roger Knowles, Malc Deveraux, Duncan McFarlane, Gerry McNeice, some bloke called Spike, as a rock god lead guitarist with the Davy Young band, (yes really !!) and the myriad of other talented people over many many genres. He loved making music.

Away from the music, he and I shared the other major passion in his life - FISHING !
I persuaded him (eventually!) to became involved in my passion of carp fishing. Long lovely sun-kissed days and evenings in the summer, pursuing the impossible. I will always remember with pride and joy his delight at catching his first 20lb carp.
He in turn introduced me to getting cold, wet, miserable, frustrated and hypothermic trying to catch cod from a beach ! I always thought there was something slightly wrong about THAT deal !!
I remember him (again!) being reduced to a state of helplessness and having to retire to the car for safety, at me losing a large cod at Whitby, because the reel became detached from the rod, and him not helping me because (he SAID) he couldn't hear me because of the wind. (despite him standing there with tears rolling down his face!) Eeeee we did laugh (not)

And that's something we did do. We laughed - a lot. Not just me either, but most people who met him. He possessed a rapier-like wit and speed of response, that always made me smile when combined with that laid back delivery and voice. You were helpless.

So, Mark is no longer with us. His memory, his spirit and his soul, will go on however. He left a legacy of kindness and admiration that so many will carry for a long time.
I always tell people, if you want to hear Mark doing what he does best, and me doing my backroom bit at the max, listen to the track "Gone to Sea" from his album of self penned songs Looking Back.
Now THAT'S my mate.

He was my best friend, mentor and like my brother. I miss him terribly.
"He was a man, and a friend always"

Goodbye mate we WILL meet again one day.


Spike

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: snapperspike
Date: 11 Dec 09 - 03:41 PM

I have just had a contact from Karen, regards the church, and arrival and departure.
She has talked to the vicar, and has said the following :-

"Rev Sewell says to direct people to leave a different way to the way they come in. They need to come in down Bond end on Church street, opposite the Dowerhouse. When they leave they continue past the church, up Vicarage Lane and turn left onto the High Street. This avoids the traffic lights on Chuch Lane which apparantly take 4 minutes to change and only let about 2 cars out at a time."

This is obvious if you look on the map on the church website, but I will try and do some paper maps from the church to the Cedar Court as well.


Best wishes to all

Spike.

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)
From: GUEST,Kevin Young
Date: 15 Dec 09 - 05:55 PM

Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Longster (Dec 5, 09)(funeral 17 Dec)
From: GUEST,Susan Michel nee Longster
Date: 20 Dec 09 - 12:22 PM

I would like to thank everyone who attended Mark's funeral, it was nice to speak to Mark's friends and acquaintances. As a family we enjoyed the musical tributes.

It snowed the day Mark was born so the weather felt very appropriate.

Susan