Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014

Subject: Obit: John Robinson (aka JohnInKansas) Apr2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:13 PM

I've had a shock from my friend Phil Doubleu who wrote to tell me that his friend John Robinson, who so many of us rely on as resident techie JohnInKansas died suddenly on April 10 from an apparent heart attack. I am heartbroken to lose this tower of tech information and not infrequent wit.

Just to let someone active at Mudcat know, my friend John Robinson (JohnInKansas) died, presumably of a heart attack, on April 10. I looked on Mudcat this evening and didn't see anything about his passing. No funeral services are planned. Plans for a wake this year at Winfield are being discussed.. - Phil

Here is a link to JohnInKansas posts.

We haven't heard much from Lin in Kansas in a long time, but we're here if she needs us.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson (aka JohnInKansas) Apr2014
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:21 PM

John was a brilliant man. His advice was always knowledgeable and informed. I will miss him a great deal.

Thank you for your willingness to explain tough tech issues and your posts in other areas which were always insightful. Take care, John. BM

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:24 PM

He was always informative and kind. He will be missed here, for certain. Go well, John.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:30 PM

He had his own personal book scanning project going that sounded fascinating. I hope all of that work is preserved, I'm sure there was a method to that madness. I think he had scanned hundreds of them that hadn't turned up anywhere else.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: MartinRyan
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:30 PM

So sorry to hear this - a great 'Catter.

Regards

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: open mike
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:36 PM

John was always knowledgeable and generous....my best to Linn and friends and family...I am glad the word got to us here at Mudcat.
(thanks SRS for posting to facebook)

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: The Barden of England
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:42 PM

So, so sad. I always, but always read anything that JohnInKansas wrote as it was so informative. This is a HUGE loss to our Mudcat community. My thoughts go out to his family.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: MMario
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:44 PM

John & Linn contributed GREAT numbers of tunes while I was pursueing the "Great Tune Search"

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Newport Boy
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 12:45 PM

He will certainly be missed - one of the 'Catters I could rely on for good information and common sense.

Phil

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 01:48 PM

A sad surprise indeed.
Blessings to you as you move on, John, and condolences to your friends and family.
As a techie myself I'll miss his encyclopedic knowledge and willingness to share for sure.
-Glenn

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Genie
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 01:55 PM

John was indeed a fount of great information as well as common sense, congeniality and humor.
So sad to lose him so suddenly and so soon.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Joe Offer
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:01 PM

I'll miss you, John. You were always a voice of wisdom and common sense, always willing to help people with questions without putting them down. My deepest sympathy to you, Lin.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:03 PM

This is so sad. A huge store of knowledge, always ready willing and able to offer advice, and, if his posting style was to be relied on, a very nice guy. A real shock.

RIP John, you will be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: frogprince
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:07 PM

Aww, man...another of the folk who was so good for this "place" in every way: all the reams upon reams of technical knowledge generously shared, but none of it quite as valuable as the good-natured tone and the laughs that he contributed.

Thanks for all of it, John; say hello to Kat for us.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: eddie1
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:12 PM

Very sorry to hear this. John was always so helpful and explained things in pretty simple terms for doughheads like myself.
My condolences to his family, your loss is so much greater than ours. RIP.

Eddie

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Megan L
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:14 PM

Sorry to hear this another quiet walker left the field we could have done with more of his kind.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:16 PM

I enjoyed his posts a lot -- this was not the sort of surprise I wanted today (or any day, for that matter).

It's all been said before...wisdom and common sense, a strong willingness to help people and offer useful advice, and a lovely sense of humor. Kindness above all -- a trait sorely lacking in too many,.

He will be very much missed here at Mudcat.

My deepest sympathy to his wife, family, and friends.

Linn (the other Linn, the one in New Hampshire)

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:20 PM

Sense and sensibility personified. A sore loss indeed. My condolences to his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: maeve
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:21 PM

This is a shock. I am grateful for the intellect, the deep interests, the kindness of the man. Thank you, John.

Maeve, in Maine

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:34 PM

Another light gone out.
And Mudcat the poorer for his passing.

We never met, or spoke, or shared a pint or a song,
But I will miss him.

Rest in Peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Elmore
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:44 PM

Sorry to hear that this polite, well informed gentleman has left us.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Triplane
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 02:44 PM

A sad piece of vews RIP John
Very nicely put Nigel couldnt have put it better

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:12 PM

So sorry to hear this sad news.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST, topsie
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:17 PM

I can't believe it. Mudcat just won't be the same. He knew so much and was so generous with that knowledge.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:38 PM

I am dismayed. This is a light going out , and a loss to Mudcat and the world. He was one of my most-admired Catters.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:38 PM

Sorry. The last post was mine

Amos

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:41 PM

John was a lovely man who contributed so much to Mudcat and its members. My condolences go to all those who knew him, enjoyed his excellent posting and miss him. I have added his name to the "In Memoriam" thread. Another fellow who left us too soon....

RIP

Peter

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:44 PM

Bugger :-( I don't know what else to say really. I will miss his wit, wisdom and technical expertise. Condolences to his family and friends.

Dave

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 03:56 PM

Gutted. Just gutted. It's the most awful shock. He will leave a huge gaping hole here. I can only echo Nigel's beautifully-worded sentiments.

I don't know if they get Microsoft problems in heaven, but I'm sure he'll find some rewarding outlet for his boundless wit, wisdom and intelligence.

Raising the parting glass...

Bonnie in Ireland

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Charley Noble
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 04:04 PM

Very sad news to hear. John was always good humored and helpful on this forum. My sincere condolences to his family and close friends.

Charlie Ipcar

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 04:14 PM

He was a kind decent man.
I know from what he wrote to me that he must have had many many friends who will miss him.

My condolences.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 04:16 PM

Always read his posts.

Sad news.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Kim C
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 04:42 PM

:-(

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 05:00 PM

Didn't read this thread but I will. Saw SRS's news on Facebook and tried to log into Mudcat... a number of times to no avail. I assume it's traffic overload regarding this tragic news.

I always relied on him to answer damn near any question. He was a cool guy, too. When he opened up, his sense of humour was well appreciated. I certainly will miss him. RIP and thanks, JiK. Yer one a the good ones.

sniff

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: BrooklynJay
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 05:06 PM

Truly the saddest news. An amazing mind and a person who certainly typified the best of what Mudcat is all about. This place will never be quite the same again.

R.I.P., John. You will be missed.


Jay

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,JotSC
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 06:23 PM

So very sorry to about John's passing. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. Death is the hardest part of life, especially to those left behind.
John

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Big Mick
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 06:30 PM

I will miss this man. Always insightful and well thought out. I had hoped to have a song with him 3D one day. May God be good to him.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 07:09 PM

Shocked and very saddened. Like so many others have already said, he added much to our community, and well beyond his patient technical advice. Wisdom, no-nonsense kindness, patience and tolerance, a subtle and droll wit. As Mick notes above, insightful and well thought out in all he posted. A builder here, in this community.

My heartfelt condolences to Lin, his family and all who loved him.

If an obituary gets posted somewhere (I've looked but haven't found one) hope some one will post a link.

I'll miss you, John, like many others.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Jeri
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 07:34 PM

He was one of my favorite people here. He usually knew the answer to the techie questions and could explain them so people understood. What really impressed me is that he constantly helped folks and never seemed to get sick of helping. He never made people feel stupid for asking.
Intelligence, kindness, patience...
I'll miss him. My condolences to Lin.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2
From: Leadfingers
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 08:22 PM

Not a lot I can add to others' posts ! A gentleman VERY generous with his technical knowledge at all times . He will certainly be missed here . Condolences to his family

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: meself
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 08:43 PM

One of the good guys. Sad news. RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 08:58 PM

I'm sorry to hear about the obit of John he was a very knowledgeable man and helped many on mudcat about PC questions and I offer my condonlence

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Larry The Radio Guy
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 09:23 PM

Like others, I always appreciated his posts, and he impressed me as somebody who was always searching for more 'truth'. My condolences to his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Rapparee
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 09:52 PM

I cannot add anything to what has already been said. This is quite a shock.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Ebbie
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 09:54 PM

As Jeri said, he "could explain them (tech solutions) so people understood". I always waited to hear what JiK had to say whenever I posted a problem. RIP, John.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Stewie
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 10:06 PM

Sad news indeed. A great loss to this forum. Vale, John.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Fossil
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 10:22 PM

Sorry to hear the news. Like many others, I have read and enjoyed his posts, marveled at his technical expertise and wished I could meet him. So long, John, and condolences to those left behind.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 10:39 PM

Being a "MOD" on Mudcat ....appears to be an early death event.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

All too many empowered as a "clone on the throne" took their "responsibilities" much too seriously. Two more remain ...will they safe-passage the remaining "Blood Moons?

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 10:39 PM

Oh, no! My condolences to his family and friends. I will miss him on Mudcat.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 10:40 PM

let me share with you, this very sweet letter from John, I hope I sent him an album as requested. he'd just helped me import an address book into my new computer;-

Sorry to take so long to reply, but I've been out doing the family grocery shopping.

No rewards really necessary. Hearing that the problem is solved is reward enough.

We do like to hear good music, though - and especially by 'catters we can't get around to hear in person.

If you're inclined to distribute one of your recordings, we're at:

John A. Robinson
404 Courtleigh
Wichita, KS 67218

(USA, of course)

Should you be inclined to send something, be sure to include your contact info. We can try to play it in the few campgrounds we get to and someone else might want to place an order.

I don't know much about what Int'l postal rates are like, so urge you not to feel obligated if that meter runs up too far.

John

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Stim
Date: 15 Apr 14 - 11:41 PM

I am also shocked and saddened. John surely holds the record for contributing the most to Mudcat, in terms of sheer volume, without ever insulting or offending anyone. I seem to recall that his chosen occupation had been in writing informational pamphlets, which seemed appropriate. I can think of no other way to account for his comfortable and effortless skill at explaining things.

It seemed to me that, in his kind and affable way, he had a compulsion to write. His postings were extensive and detailed, to the degree it was difficult to imagine how anyone could put that much effort into a posting on an internet forum. But he did.

I will also point out something that we all had perhaps noticed, but no one has yet mentioned, and that is that on the occasion that John didn't actually have an answer to the subject at hand, he would write about something that he did know about. You absolutely had to love him for that!

I haven't looked at the listing of his posts, but I reckon that that he wrote the equivalent of hundreds, or thousands of print pages in explanations, for our edification and amusement.

So John, I only hope you gained as much from writing them as we did from reading them. We love you, we'll miss you, and no one will ever take your place.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 12:17 AM

Thanks, Al. I know a few cards and letters will be headed to Lin. Garg, I'll get back to you on that.

Quite often others of us would offer answers in tech queries, but when John posted that usually became the settled precedent of the topic, and the remaining conversation would be to tease out details. Now we really need to be on our toes - his are huge shoes to fill.

John didn't only post on tech topics, he shared a lot of music, and he was interested in environmental topics. The last thread he started was Climate Change Again - New Report.

Also, this is part of his book-scanning project: When Does it Get to Be Folk?.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 01:09 AM

I'm sorry that more of you didn't get to meet John in the "3D world". I've been reading through this thread and see that JohnInKansas was known as a friendly, extremely well-informed and endlessly helpful Mudcatter. My 3D world friend John Robinson was all of those things and much more. He was a delightfully irascible, cantankerous, opinionated old fart, forever curious about everything and forever busy with some project or another. John was my spirit guide to the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas -- he had been going to Winfield for over 3 decades - where he rarely, if ever, went to the stage shows. He loved hanging around the campground with friends and working on campsite improvements with the trailer full of tools he brought to camp. I thought I was a tool junkie until found out that John had a drill press as part of his camping gear. John missed Winfield last year, though Lin did come down for a day. It wasn't the same without them. I hope the plans for a wake for John at Winfield work out. He would love it.
- Phil Wirth (aka phil_doubleu)
John, Lin and I have posted hundreds of photos of Winfield over the years. Out of those hundreds of photos, the only he ever asked for a copy of was this one...
JohnInKansas

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Will Fly
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 06:29 AM

Well I'll be damned - another good man gone. RIP John.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,nickp cookieless at work
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 07:47 AM

Such a shame. The loss of a huge contributor. His advice will certainly be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Howard Jones
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 08:03 AM

Little to add to what's already been said. Sad news indeed.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Fred McCormick
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 08:08 AM

I never knew John personally, but I always found him to be extremely expert and extremely helpful as far as anything to do with computers was concerned. He certainly got me out of a few holes.

I hope they've made it through to the digital era up in heaven. If so he'll never be stuck for something to do.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: treewind
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 08:24 AM

Like many I guess, I never met John, but I certainly knew his online personality and appreciated his wit and wisdom. One of the good guys. What a shock. Condolences to his friends and family.

Anahata

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: cooperman
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 08:28 AM

A great contributor. Always helpful, always humble RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 08:30 AM

Very helpful and well-informed chap.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Jack Campin
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:09 AM

Uncle Phil - for me, your photo link didn't work, and what I got instead was Flickr searching for every image of kittens they have (which is rather a lot). Was that intentional?

Seconded, what everyone else has said. But now I'm curious to see what he looked like.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Cool Beans
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:18 AM

Very sorry to hear of John's death. Rest in peace, John.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Mr Red
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:25 AM

I am sure he will be sorting out any techie issues with the gate keeper.
The thing that always struck me was that he could correct your misguided facts without giving offence. Now there is a lot of that here (usually) but it is always rewarding to see.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Megan L
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:43 AM

Jack not sure how to correct it but if you just type Winfield into the search box in the page that opens Johns picture comes up

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:49 AM

Sorry about that, Jack. Try this link instead.
JohnInKansas

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:54 AM

That last post was from me on someone else's computer.
- Phil

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: SINSULL
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 10:40 AM

Very sad. RIP John.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Jack Campin
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 11:13 AM

Thanks for the photo!

Somehow I hadn't imagined him looking quite as straight-up folky.

What was his mandolin playing like?

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Bill D
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 11:16 AM

Oh my... because I had lived in Wichita many years ago, and had been to the Winfield festival, John & I had compared notes on the campground and the festival - and also on many technical issues of fonts. I had intended to get back to Wichita one more time to see some friends, and had intended to meet John at least once.
His breadth of knowledge on so many topics amazed me, and I will, as so many others have said, miss his timely and informative posts.

Lin... please know how that so many of us, though it was only online, knew John as not only a good guy, but also an important one. Please say hello here if & when you are up to it.


'bye, John...

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 11:42 AM

What a great photo, Phil! Thanks for posting the link. I hadn't imagined someone who looked as "folkie" either. :) And a drill press in his camping gear - that doesn't surprise me, for some reason. We need some more smiles, I hope a few other "3-D" friends come along with interesting observations.


P.S. I looked it up - Lin is for "Linda" in Lin_in_Kansas, apologies for the extra "n".

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 12:11 PM

Does anyone know that Lin is doing ok?

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 02:36 PM

I too was elated to see the pic. Thanks. To echo others, not 'quite what I expected' but that doesn't surprise me. JiK surprised me with almost every post. I remember posting a number of times to threads which asked a question or sought help in some way, something like... "Blah, blah, blah but just wait... JiK will be along soon to sort it for you." Also I quipped (teased) with him by times, saying things like "JiK knows everything." because that's the way it seemed.

Most importantly, nice guy. Real nice guy.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 03:37 PM

In a personal exchange with John I'd asked him if he still played sax, something he'd done in his younger days. He replied, "Yes, but now I do it on a mandolin." He was a gentleman and he seemed to know lots about almost everything. Seriously smart man and a great sense of humour. I'm still shocked and greatly saddened when I see his obit notice.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: JHW
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 04:42 PM

Very sorry to learn this, sad to lose a man I knew only from text on a computer screen (which I just used but he knew how it worked!). Always helpful and comprehensively authoritative.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Gurney
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 05:01 PM

I've never met, nor expected to meet John, but he helped me on this forum with his hugely broad knowledge. I'll miss him.
Commiserations to his family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Arkie
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 05:58 PM

Mudcat will certainly not be the same. John was always helpful and did so generously. He also responded to obscure requests that were of little interest to anyone else. He provided information that I personally needed on many occasions. His loss will be deeply felt. His legacy will continue on.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Bert
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 06:05 PM

Bugger, as Dave said. But that doesn't seem to cover it. I'm going to go outside and cuss a lot and I'll howl at the moon tonight and sing a song for him.

Gonna miss him.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 06:31 PM

Thanks for posting that wonderful photograph.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 06:46 PM

Very sad news. My good wishes go to all his nearest and dearest.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Rog Peek
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 07:08 PM

Only knew John from his postings which were always interesting and informative.

Very shocked to hear this sad news, sincere condolences to his family.

Rog

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Rob Naylor
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 07:51 PM

Very sad news. I never met him, but always found his posts here informative, friendly and respectful. He'll be missed. Condolences to his family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Alice
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 08:29 PM

This is such sad news. My condolences to his family.

Alice

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 16 Apr 14 - 09:40 PM

I already posted, but now I'm adding my thanks for the photo link.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Lin in Kansas
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 01:11 AM

Bless all of you for all the tributes to John. He loved music and he loved teaching and sharing knowledge on anything he was interested in, and he had very broad interests. I won't be posting a full-scale obituary for awhile yet, but it will be printed later in the Wichita Eagle newspaper.

To let everyone know:

We are planning a day-long "wake" at the Winfield Festival this year, on Saturday Sept. 20th, at the Waterhole Camp in the Pecan Grove. John didn't want a funeral or any kind of religious gathering, so since he went to Winfield for so many years (the first trip we took together from Washington was the 2,000-mile trip to Winfield--and he hooked me, too), we felt that would be the best venue to celebrate his life and music. Anyone who can attend is welcome. BYOB; coffee available all day.

John's ashes are to be buried in the Goodwin-Emmons Cemetery near Higgins, TX, where my son is also buried. I am confident he will qualify for a Veteran's service there. A date has not yet been set for burial.

Thank you Phil, for posting the photo and your help and Stilly's in starting this thread. Y'all made me smile and cry and be even happier I was his wife for more than 20 years. The family has rallied around and I want for nothing.

Gratefully,
Lin in Kansas

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: catspaw49
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 09:23 AM

I come late but with great sorrow in my heart. Jon and Lin have become a part of the Mudcat fabric. He will be missed sorely here. Whenever the question needed answering, John was there. I was amazed at his breadth and depth of knowledge which he shared so clearly.

Lin, you and I have been buddies here for a long time and I have no words except to say I am so sorry ..... You have all my best.    Please take care of yourself.


Pat

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 09:42 AM

So sorry for your loss Lin!
John will be greatly missed on Mudcat for his wisdom and dignity!

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 11:27 AM

Lin, Higgins may be in Texas, but the drive probably feels like two states away from the Metroplex. If you find yourself wandering further south when you're in the state, drop me a line - the guest room is always ready, ever since I decluttered it. And please do stop by the most recent in the long-running declutter threads, we haven't seen you there in ages. You may also want to stop by the Jane's Rainbow thread.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 12:40 PM

What a shock. What a loss to Mudcat.

RIP, JiK.

(Great photo Uncle Phil).

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Lighter
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 12:48 PM

Am so thickheaded that I only now recognized whom this thread is about.

JohninKansas always offered good and sensible comments on computers and everything else.

This is a shock and sad indeed. My condolences to all.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Lin in Kansas
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 05:06 PM

Again, thank you all for your wonderful comments and condolences. Spaw, we both thought of you as a 3D friend even though we never met in person. Stilly, thank you so much for the kind invitation; wish I could take you up on it. And I will visit the declutter threads, as that's much of what everyone is doing around here these days...

Lim

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Murray MacLeod
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 05:19 PM

I am so sorry to (belatedly) read this news.

John was always very helpful to me over the years with his replies to my banal technical inquiries, and his replies were never condescending, much though they would have been entitled to be.

RIP, John...

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,saulgoldie
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 05:22 PM

I am very sorry to hear this. Condolences to his loved ones. RIP, John.

Saul

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Brian Peters
Date: 17 Apr 14 - 05:25 PM

I too read many of John's contributions and was always struck by his expertise, generosity and patience. He will be greatly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Gary T
Date: 18 Apr 14 - 02:26 AM

I've had the good fortune to spend many pleasant occasions visiting with John and Lin at Winfield. I'll look forward to seeing Lin again, but of course will miss John.

One thing that sticks in my mind is the double bass he designed and played. Double washtub bass, that is. It had two washtubs joined at their open ends, making a resonating chamber with twice the volume of the typical washtub bass -- clever concept and clever name. Unsurprisingly, the rest of its details were superior to those on the average washtub bass as well. Product of a brilliant and slightly (though delightfully) kooky mind.

I'll cherish my memories of him.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 18 Apr 14 - 05:50 AM

John and I exchanged posts several times in Mudcat...sometimes we agreed on various things....but I just got a post, via the Inter-Galactic-Space-Internet, and I got this:

"To Linda,
If she lives till age shall scatter,
May the frost be upon her head,
I'll love her as much and just the same,
As the morning we were wed.
But if the angels call me,
And I go to heaven before,
She'll know me, when she sees me,
For I'll kiss her at the door."

Keep him in your heart...you'll see him again!

GfS

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Andrez
Date: 18 Apr 14 - 08:57 AM

Just saw this thread and wanting to make a small affirmation on behalf of all southern hemisphere 'catters to the heartfelt expressions of loss, love and friendship in the posts above on hearing the news of Johns passing.

Rest in peace,

Andrez

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,MikeL2
Date: 18 Apr 14 - 02:16 PM

Hi

Sad news. I never met John. Only here on Mudcat.

He helped me with a few technical problems from time to time.

Rest in Peace John

My condolences to family and friends.

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 18 Apr 14 - 06:29 PM

Ah yes, Gary T, the famous (infamous?) double washtub bass. One of the unique features was dolly wheels to roll it to the streets of the Pecan Grove to serve as John's chick magnet. It worked quite well for that too.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Lin in Kansas
Date: 19 Apr 14 - 01:00 PM

Uncle Phil-

LOL--He became a "professional" musician with that bass. He was playing on the road one night when a man dropped a dollar on the bass...of course by the time John split the money with his two sidemen, it wasn't a very lucrative gig!

He had people following him from place to place when he was wheeling the bass around too, because with the two tubs, it sure looked like a beer keg. I think he considered adding a spigot to it just for fun, but didn't want to mess up the sound. He did love to show that thing off. Gary, thank you for all the music and pleasure of your company. I still love "Frog Kissing."

Lin

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 19 Apr 14 - 04:43 PM

Lin, we were talking the other night about the time you, Michelle, and John were stranded over by Country Corner with a dead battery. I was at an Irish session when Michelle called me. I came over to find and possibly rescue you. By the time I got there John had already tapped into power and hooked up a battery charger, so we all sat around talking about Irish music. When the talk turned to penny whistles John reached down into his bag and pulled out a roll of penny whistles various keys, just in case someone needed one, you understand. It turned out there was also a nice selection of diatonic harmonicas in various keys in the same bag, just in case. I don't recall ever seeing John play penny whistle or harmonica, though I suppose he did.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 20 Apr 14 - 07:32 AM

Writing again to thank Uncle Phil for the great photo.

I seem to recall from a long-ago thread that John also played a bit of harp...? (The stringy kind not the blowy kind.) Impossible to think - especially on Easter - that his wonderful vibrant mind isn't busy somewhere, sorting out people's problems and making music.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Lin in Kansas
Date: 20 Apr 14 - 11:31 AM

Bonnie, he never played a string harp that I know of, although he probably could have if we'd had one. He did occasionally play penny whistle and harmonica, and of course, being John, had to have a set of each.

Phil, it's true they were usually on loan to anyone who wanted one. I was always very jealous of John and his son John, who seemed able to play any kind of instrument they picked up, most of which they learned by ear and by just playing them...grrrrrr. Frustrating, when I can barely play lap dulcimer and have absolutely no musical talent whatsoever! I sure did enjoy theirs, though.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Desert Dancer
Date: 20 Apr 14 - 06:40 PM

I haven't been here regularly of late, so I am just seeing this thread and so sorry to find it. Best wishes to you, Lin, and all those who loved him.

~ Becky in Long Beach

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Apr 14 - 05:28 AM

I've been at a festival, so I'm also late in adding my condolences. Like everyone else, I always enjoyed his posts.

best wishes to Lin & family & friends on their loss.

love from sandra

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 22 Apr 14 - 07:56 PM

Several times I went to Winfield for the Bluegrass festival and never knowingly met up with John, although we always talked about it. But, funny thing, on reading this thread the memory came back to me of midnight jamming with a crew of folks on one of the camp roads, and of a bass player who merrily thumped along on a peculiar double-washtub bass on wheels.
Perhaps we never met, but it sure seems like we may have played music together, and I am very glad that we had the chance.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Apr 14 - 04:56 PM

Sympathies from PA. He was such a nice man!

~Susan

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Tootler
Date: 24 Apr 14 - 04:22 AM

Only just picked this up.

I was surprised and sorry to hear the news. I always enjoyed his posts which were interesting and knowledgeable.

He will be much missed.

My condolences to his family.

Geoff

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Hrothgar
Date: 24 Apr 14 - 05:18 AM

Always calm, restrained, well expressed. He will be greatly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: GUEST,Guest Ard Macha
Date: 24 Apr 14 - 04:08 PM

Always for to help,I am saddened. RIP John.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Sep 14 - 11:41 AM

This today from Phil Wirth (mudcat moniker Phil Doubleu), who is at the Kansas Winfield event: Please pass along the word that there will be a wake for JohnInKansas on Saturday afternoon at the Waterhole Camp in the Pecan Grove.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Mrrzy
Date: 16 Sep 14 - 01:12 PM

Thank you, I am so sad to read this, can't think how I missed it in April. Wish I could be there to add to the crowd for a wonderful person whom I will miss but I am sure, not as much as his near and dear will. A tragic loss, my sincere condolences to the family. Hope he gets a huge sendoff.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 17 Sep 14 - 04:48 PM

Me too, Mrrzy, me too.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 17 Sep 14 - 08:18 PM

Will be there in my heart. May it be a time of soft sorrow and comfort for you, Lin.

Subject: RE: Obit: John Robinson aka JohnInKansas Apr 10, 2014
From: Bobert
Date: 17 Sep 14 - 08:36 PM

FUCK!!!

Man, the world is a little poorer... No, make that a lot poorer...

B~