2005 Obit: Chris Gorniak

Subject: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Gervase
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 11:19 AM

This is a thread I wish I didn't have to post, but thos who knew him knew it was coming.
Chris Gorniak died six hours into the New Year after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer. His wife, Gwynneth, and son James were with him at home in Eye, Suffolk.
"Big Chris" was larger than life in so many ways, and so many people will know him from the English festival circuit - and particularly from Sidmouth and Towersey, that it's hard to know what to say.
Alan Whitbread - known to 'catters as allanww - was a great friend to Chris, particularly in the last few difficult weeks, and although he's offline at the moment, wanted to mark Chris's passing:
"What a wonderfully expressive singer Chris was and what a great friend and singing mentor to me.  I can hear him singing "Joys are flowing like a river" as I write this and I am sure you can hear him doing so as you read it.
When I was a not-very-fresh-faced singing virgin at the Middle Bar in Sidmouth in 1995, I sang my very first solo song, "Fathom the Bowl"  (patheically as I recall!).  It was Chris who came up to me afterwards and offered me an exta verse and words of encouragement and we have been close friends ever since, singing all over the country with the Shellback Chorus and setting up our own 6 person group, Navy Cut, which was just about to get going when his illness struck.  
Even though he became very weak and lost his rich, gravelly singing voice in the last few weeks, he never lost his love of singing.  Even last Tuesday when I visited him we listened to an old recording of the Menhaden Chantymen from Beaufort, North Carolina, with their wonderful rhythms and we whispered along with the choruses.  I shall cherish that memory.
Obviously it's a bit soon for details of funeral arrangements, but Alan or meself will post them as soon as we know. Meanwhile, if you knew Chris or ever had your heart lifted by his singing, spare a moment to hold him, Gwynneth and the rest of the family in your thoughts.
"...These shall pass onward when we are forgotten,
Only remembered for what we have done."

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Micca
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 11:39 AM

I too, wish I wasnt writing to this thread,a not unexpected event but one I hoped would be much further in the future than turnrd out to be the case He was a damned good singer and a really nice man, I knew him from his singing at Towersey and his encouragement with both my singing and songwriting was very helpful to me. He was a a songwriter also and His "General Woolfe's Batman" is hilarious.
A man that will be missed by his many friends
Micca and Khatt

"..on the stormy seas sleeping peacefully..

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Cllr
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 11:48 AM

Our thoughts are with gywnneth and their family, Chris was one of the first people I came to know in the middle bar at sidmouth.   hI will particularly remember his version of stormy it is one I will always hear him singing. We are thinking of him, Mike and Carol

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: LesB
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 11:50 AM

Chris will be much missed by his friends in Southport & our heart felt condolences go out to Gwynneth.
Les & Linda

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: JudeL
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 12:08 PM

He will be greatly missed & not just for his glorious voice.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: karen k
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 12:16 PM

I did not know Chris although I knew of him. I have several Shellback friends who were close friends and will be saddened by his passing and the difficult start to the new year. So while my thoughts will be with Gywnneth and James I will also be thinking of my friends as they go through this sad time. I hope they know who they are as I'm sure they will post here.

Go in peace Chris and keep on singing in your new world. I am sorry that I never got the chance to hear you.

karen k

We've got loved ones over yonder,
We've got loved ones over yonder,
We've got loved ones over yonder,
Over yonder's ocean.

Some bright day we'll go and see them,
Some bright day we'll go and see them,
Some bright day we'll go and see them,
Over yonder's ocean.

Won't that be a happy meeting,
Won't that be a happy meeting,
Won't that be a happy meeting,
Over yonder's ocean.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Lady Policeman
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 12:20 PM

Few could fill the void that Chris will leave. I don't think there has ever been a more moving occasion in The Anchor, Sidmouth than when Chris sang "Blessed Quietness" this summer. The chorus was sung with such emotion, it is a memory which will stay in our minds forever.Our hearts go out to Gwyneth and Chris' family and they can be assured that he will not be forgotten. Thanks Alan and Gervase for keeping us informed.
Bill and Kath

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: MBSLynne
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 12:32 PM

Words are hard to find......a larger than life character with a voice to match leaves a larger than life space.

I just keep remembering the song he wrote that won DG&D. It still makes me laugh to think of it, even today.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Phot
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 12:52 PM

Pixie and I were only talking of Chris the other day and wondering how he was, then a few hours ago we found out. I first met Chris in The Anchor at Sidmouth in the mid Eighties, and was immeadiatly struck by his warmth, humour, and his love for singing. I have never met anyone with such power in their voice as Chris, and it was allways so great to listen to. His sense of humour, and fun were infectious, and you could'nt help but join in! One of the fondest memories I have, is of the singaround in the Wendy House at the original venue of The Wareham Wail, how did we manage to fit 12 adults in somthing designed for kids?! Then when The Wail moved to the new venue, we had no Wendy House, no problem! Just use the back of my Landrover! After he had one lung removed, though a little short of breath, he was right back in the thick of it, voice booming and as resonant as ever, and always the love for the friends around him. A man who really was larger than life.

...."I'll gently rise, and softly call, goodnight, and joy be with you all"....

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 01:11 PM

Towersey and Wareham will be poorer places now. Lovely guy. A sad loss. I bet he's stirring up the winged ones into a few shanties!

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: pdcawley
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 02:30 PM

We went to visit Chris in Eye on Wednesday. Although he was awfully tired and ill, he wasn't giving up easily; he was still Chris and still enjoying himself with the time he had.

One of the last things he said to us as we left was "Tell everyone I'm not dead yet."

If only I could.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,Roger Hayes
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 02:37 PM

Very sad. Another genuine and decent man gone.

I hope the Middle Bar Singers will raise a glass or tankard to his memory at their Reunion in the Spring.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 02:52 PM

Sorry to hear this and I knew him by reputation only, but I know how much he meant to alanWW and the Shellbacks. Rest in peace

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Snuffy
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 03:22 PM

What a singer, and what a man. We shall miss him.

This afternoon Derek Droscher sang Ken Cockrell's Borneo (Song for Vic), a song that Chris made truly his own. The whole pub listened in silence to a wonderful tribute.

.. And pray for those in peril on the sea
And all my shipmates, gone before

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Selchie - (RH)
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 04:25 PM

I never met Chris Gorniak, but often heard how much he was loved & respected by all his friends.

A sad loss, after a long & brave fight against a cruel illness. My thoughts are with his wife, family & his friends in this dark time, especially the Shellbacks.

Peace after pain.

With Love

M

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Col K
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 05:51 PM

My thoughts go out to Gwynneth and James with the loss of Chris. He was a wonderful singer and person and he will be missed by all those who knew him.

Rest In Peace

Colin

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Gervase
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 06:13 PM

Just to refresh, I had a natter with Gwynneth this evening. She is, as can be imagined, knocked sideways by the whole bloody thing, but very grateful for all your kind thoughts. as - I'm sure - are all of his kids.
Anyway, the end, when it came, was as quiet and peaceful as anyone could wish.
He died at home, as was his wish, and as Gwynneth said, the end - some 12 hours after Chris quietly slipped into a coma - was almost an anti-climax, given the larger than life theatricality of his life. "He lay there breathing peacefully as we watched over him and, at six in the morning, he just stopped breathing - and that was it," she said.
Not that 2004 wasn't allowed to end without a typically Gorniak moment, however. As he was being fettled by a pair of nurses yesterday afternoon (both of them quite good looking, muttered Gwynneth through what, I'm sure, were gritted teeth...) Chris turned on the boyish charm and the roguish twinkle, and by the end had even melted the flinty heart of the district nurse on her rounds.
Anyway, everything's on hold for the moment while the various doctors and registrars drift back to work post New-Year and the necessary paperwork and arrangements are drawn up, but the hopes are that the funeral and celebration of Chris's life will take place the week after next in his beloved Suffolk - and hopefully involving two places to which he made a special contribution as an architect.
And, if one can be forgiven for drifting away from his musical life, Chris was a damned fine architect to whom Mid Suffolk owes a large debt of gratitude for the preservation of some of its fine old buildings. Long before I ever become a bore on the subject of lime and green timber in building renovation, Chris was there, and I fondly remember him chiding my greenhorn enthusiasm with the benefit of his huge experience. It's not just our traditional music that's lost a passionate friend but the very fabric of our land.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 06:18 PM

There are millions of words to express how sad this is.. I just can't think of any.

I can't even post the song I wrote for him, because the old computer ate it when it crashed.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: SINSULL
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 06:41 PM

I remember hearing about Chris at the Getaway last year and the concern all had for his health then. My condolences go out to his family - blood and otherwise. He can trust you to celebrate his life and carry on his traditions. How wonderful that he kept his eye for the ladies right to the end.
SINS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 09:34 PM

I met Chris some twenty years ago,part of my introduction to folk. A wonderful man. Phot ,I am looking at the photo taken by me inside the Wendy House of Dear Chris on top form! My thoughts with Gwynneth Oliver and family.I wont forget the last song in The Middle Bar by Chris he smiled and said "thank you all my freinds thats the last time I can sing with you" Now a great loss to us all.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Morticia
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 02:54 AM

It's because of Chris that I sing in public at all.......he was the one who told me I could and should......I'm going to miss him very much.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: John Routledge
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 04:15 AM

Sad news indeed. Rest in Peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Skipper Jack
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 05:18 AM

Learning of this sad news, I immediately surfed the web to find out more about Chris. Because I have his name in my address book, and I couldn't remember why?

Then the information on the web brought it back home. He was a member of Capstan Full Strenght, and performed at The Mumbles Maritime Festival some years ago.

My sincere condolences to Chris' family from me and Baggyrinkle (Swansea Shantymen)

David Robinson

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: My guru always said
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 06:05 AM

So sorry to hear of Chris' passing, sending positive thoughts to Gwynneth & James, his family & friends.

Only met Chris a few times but it was obvious that he had a huge capacity for love and sharing in addition to a great sense of humour and that stunning voice. There was an incredible feeling of togetherness during his final song in the Middle Bar which will remain with all who shared that.

Am sure he is still with us all in spirit and memories.
Hil

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: 8_Pints
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 08:21 AM

Derek Seed has a wonderful photograph of him leading the Shellback Chorus at Enkhuizen, Holland last year. It would be fitting tribute to post a web-link to it I think.

RIP Chris,

Bob & Sue vG

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: fiddler
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 09:38 AM

I cna ony say - sad - and add my thoughts to those above.

i keep my walking and camping matches in a tobacco box Chris gave me one rainy day in the Anchor when I hardly knew him! He and it will be with me always.

Andy

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 12:08 PM

Have just returned home and picked up this very sad news. There will be a large hole in the Middle Bar this year.

Best wishes to Gwyneth and family.

Love

Kitty

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Verna
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 12:57 PM

Now we live in Ireland we have not seen Chris much in the last 18 months.

However there will be a big hole in the Shells as well as the Middle Bar.

Rest in Peace.

Verna and Ray

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Noreen
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 02:49 PM

Chris was such a positive force, it's so difficult to imagine he's not going to be around any more.

He influenced so many lives for the better and he wasn't for leaving us, right up to the end.

We'll have a wonderful send-off for him, with as many songs, stories and friends there as possible.

So many happy memories.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 04:27 PM

Any news on funeral details/memorial pissups please?

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: mary poppins
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 04:52 PM

It was with great sadness that I heard Chris Gorniak had passed on.
He was a decent individual, a fine architect, and an outstanding folk singer.
I had the privilege to have known Chris for about eighteen years and first encountered him
at a small but superbly organised village festival he founded in Framsden , where he lived for many years.
Chris had a bon viveur character and enjoyed nothing more than a good singaround session. Anyone who heard him sing 'Twankydillo' or 'Pleasant and Delightful', or any of his comprehensive repertoire of folk songs, would have been impressed and moved by the power and richness of tone of his voice and the ability make the listener believe they were actually involved in the song.
I had the good fortune to sing with Chris for many years as a member of the shanty choir 'Capstan Full Strength', which we co-founded. It was his enthusiasm and mentoring which inspired me to sing in public, so I am forever in his debt.
Also an enthusiastic member of Shellbacks, Navy Cut and latterly (with one lung) LT42,
Chris was unstoppable in his passion to do what he liked to do best of all – SING…!

To see a picture of Chris in action and good health (he's on the right)
http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/capstanfullstrength/index.html


Speaking for Capstan Full Strength - deepest sympathies go to his wife Gywnneth, and sons Jamie and Oliver

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: DG&D Dave
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 08:14 AM

We can only add our greatest thanks to Chris for his contributions to the Doom Gloom and Despondancy sessions. Winning in 1996, as mentioned earlier by HergaKitty, with "A Folksinger Cut Down", probably the best 'silly' song we ever had, and for performing as M/C since 1998.

Whilst we feel a great sense of loss, We can only look back on the joy he has given us over the years.

Dave and Fiona.

... No sad farewells, there'll be no tear dimmed eyes, where all is joy and peace and love ...

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Gervase
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 09:14 AM

Funferal and wake now looking to be either next Monday (10th of January) or the following Monday - all will be clearer tomorrow.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 11:02 AM

Though I did not know Chris anything like as well as many of the above writers, I can only echo what they've said - big man, big sense of humour even when being irritable with those who dared to laugh in DG&D, big personality and most of all, big voice!
I was there at Sidmouth when he and we all sang "Blessed Quietness" in a very unquiet way, and was delighted to hear it again via Gervase's technology in the MBS group: his voice lives on.
TB

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Tony Day
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 01:17 PM

I can't remember when Chris first came into the Middle Bar, but it is a very long time ago - probably twenty years. Alan Whitbread and Mike Gibson have both testified that he was already part of the furniture when they arrived, anyway. He was a welcome member of the Bench driving team before his illness, and added humour and imagination to our sessions as well as rather a lot of welly!

My abiding memory will be of Reunion 2004, when he joined us with such gusto and good spirits. Thankfully we have sound and visual records on the MBS site to refresh our memories of Chris - not that anyone could ever forget him!

We will want to make a tribute to him at Reunion this February, but he would have hated a minute's silence or anything prolonged or morbid. And anyway, it is with huge pleasure that we will always think of him, is it not? Ideas, please, especially from those who knew him best?

Tony

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Barb'ry
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 01:28 PM

Is it possible to hear the link from the MBS? It would be lovely to be able to do so.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,The Admiral & Mrs at home...
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 01:54 PM

We can't add anything to what has been said before other than to say that Chris was a huge and rumbustious character who has fought every inch to the end and will be sorely missed in the Barn at Towersey. Our thoughts are with the family, Alan W and the others who were with him in the last hours. We have some wonderful memories to keep him alive though the years...

'Old Stormy loved a Sailors song,
His voice was rough and tough and strong'

Tony and Pearl

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 02:17 PM

Although I only met Chris two years ago I took to him immediately and would hope to be counted amongst his friends. He was indeed a larger than life character and I'm sure his presence will be with us for many years to come. My love and thoughts to Gwynneth. I doubt we willbe able to make the funeral but be sure we shall raise a glass to Chris.
jane and geoff

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 03:36 PM

I just got online again after the break to find this and I'm deeply saddened too. Compared to many fellow Catters, I didn't know Chris all that well except through the Shellbacks, but I remember him as a great guy and a damned fine singer. But I'd wondered why I'd not seen him around of late and had no knowledge of his illness. We've lost too many of the good guys this past twelve months. My thoughts too go out to Gwynneth and James. RIP Chris.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,Com Seangan
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 03:46 PM

I am sorry that I had not known this man or even heard of hi. But the tributes are so touching. Maybe one of you who knew the man personally, could make a print out of this thread. I am sure it would mean so much to his wife and family at this time to know he was held in such esteem. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,Andy Jackson
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 04:31 PM

Our Chris - a fine man, a fine friend of 20 plus years. A very sad loss. Our hearts are full of thoughts of Gwneth, Pam, Ollie and all the family. He gave so much to us all and asked for nothing in return.
Andy, Jillie and Toby

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Dave Earl
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 05:54 AM

I was saddened to hear the news. I first met Chris in the Middle Bar in 1997 (my first and wettest full week in Sidmouth).

In true Middle Bar fashion when the "Twig" came round to me I was invited to sing by those in the room and when I had finished the song Chris was one of the first to offer encouragement.

Over the years he became a good friend whose singing I always enjoyed. His rendition of Blessed Quietness at the MBS reunion in 2004 was really excellent and the image of him in full flight with his Middle Bar friends joining in will be with me forever.

The last song I heard him sing was his contribution to "Darzit" night last August when he sang "Will he wear 'em" (Willie Wareham.

Goodbye Chris.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 06:47 AM

Tony,
Re a fitting tribute to Chris: I put a humble suggestion on the MBS messages, i.e. get together a list of songs he used to sing (or enjoyed others singing) and devote part of the reunion to singing 'em. Further suggestion: get someone with the techno to record it, burn a CD and sell it to MBSers and others in aid of Cancer Research. (However the latter might involve getting various permissions)
Trish

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 01:58 PM

Chris was a gentleman who i am pleased to have known over the many years i went to Sidmouth in the Middle Bar,he took a liking to my son Toby and we often had a conversation over a pint of beer.
Rest in peace now Chris.
Yas Jackson

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: treaties1
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 05:16 PM

Only just got the sad news, Love and hugs Gwynneth and James. Another good man gone, but never forgotten by those who loved him, and his singing and singing with him
I will be there for his send off if at all possible. Theresa

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,Seaking
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 06:10 PM

I first met Chris in the early 80's in my parents' pub in Debenham Suffolk and we all remember the impression this big likable man left on us. I am forever grateful to him for his encouragement to me to go to my first Sidmouth in 1997 and will never forget seeing in the new millennium with Pauline and our children at his Framsden home. Thanks for adding to some great memories Chris.

Our thoughts now are with Gwynneth, Ollie and all the family.

Chris, Pauline, Brian and Mo.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Noreen
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 06:51 PM

Just been on phone to Gwynneth, funeral has been arranged for Monday 17th January.
Further details will be announced when more precision is possible, but formal stuff will start midday-ish, with everybody welcome at Framsden church (then family only to the crematorium) with a chance for lots of singing and remembering of Chris afterwards.

Thought you'd like to know that Chris is dressed in three t-shirts: Capstan Full Strength, Shellbacks and his yellow Middle Bar t-shirt.

(A happy picture of Chris is on the Capstan Full Strength Crew page.)

Noreen

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,Steve Head
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 07:55 AM

Over the years,I bumped into Chris at various festivals, Sidmouth, Walton on the Naze and I'm pretty certain at Whitby as well. He was always cheerful and friendly and I regret not seeing him at Sidmouth
last year.

Goodbye Chris

Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Cats at Work
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 09:55 AM

It's taken a lot of hard thought to find something to say that doesn't sound trite. I don't think we've done that now. Jon and I go back a long way with Chris. Yes, we have seen him at festivals all over the country and heard him sing too. We know the power of his voice, how it could move you to tears of joy or laughter or of pain. We also know the side of Chris that would give you his last penny if you needed it. We've raised the glass and now we raise our voices. Thanks for being you, Chris. We'll miss you.   Be at peace with the very best of singers who have gone before.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: GUEST,Mr Red
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 10:51 AM

Oh well. I tried to get 'catters to e-mail him but the thread (even without publishing addresses) was pulled. He did go to a few festivals after and he told me he liked the idea. It is times like that you need cheering-up. Even though he was always (apparently) positive.

Maybe the firmament needs a bit of new architecture.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Schantieman
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 11:19 AM

I for one will miss him. I've only known him for three years or so but since I first met him he treated me like an old friend. Big guy, big voice, big heart. He'll be remembered for the cheerful and matter-of-fact way he (and G) dealt with his illness.   At Warwick in '03 I remember sitting with him and Johnny Collins as they discussed their respective ailments.

A fan of cheese, particularly mature Gouda, which he brought back from the Holland trip a year or two ago.

Delighted to hear, Noreen, that he's wearing his T-shirts, particularly the MBS one!

Love & hugs to Gwynneth. Hope to see you on 17th.


Back behind a keyboard after the hols.

Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 04:47 PM

I first met Chris when he came to my lemonade trailer at the first Bromyard "over the road" festival. He brought a large empty plastic 'lemonade' bottle and asked if I'd fill it up. I think it held 18 cups! I did give him discount! At the time he was in the process of giving up the stronger stuff. He gave me some wonderful ideas to convert my back yard into a giant sun dial, and redesigned my house and staircase on the back of an envelope at Warwick Festival. He had a wonderful imagination, voice and personality.

Thanks Chris for sharing it with us.

Thinking of you Gwynneth, see you on 17th.

Sal

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 05:47 PM

If anyone is going to the funeral and can give me a lift, I'd appreciate it... I'll be recovering from surgery and won't be allowed to drive.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Seaking
Date: 05 Jan 05 - 05:56 PM

Liz, I should be able to go but won't know 100% until Sunday night. I could give you a lift from (and back to) Ipswich Rail station if it helps. PM me if I can be of any assistance. Same offer to anyone else if helps also.

Chris

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Schantieman
Date: 06 Jan 05 - 12:46 PM

I've secured Mon & Tue off and can go. Two places in the car.   I might even get a minibus from the Liverpool/Southport area. Travel down Sun, back Tue.

Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 06 Jan 05 - 05:41 PM

Thanks, I'll look into it but it entirely depends on how I'm healing on the day.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Menolly
Date: 06 Jan 05 - 05:48 PM

Chris and I did not like each other very much.
We met in Suffolk about 12 years ago but after my husband died of cancer and Chris was fighting it we had the odd serious discussion where much went unspoken and much was understood.
I don't have to like the guy to be sorry that he is gone or the way he was taken, and I greatly respect the way he fought.
My best wishes to all family and friends

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 06 Jan 05 - 07:22 PM

Positive thourghts then !!!

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Dave Earl
Date: 07 Jan 05 - 12:15 PM

I and my partner Elizabeth will be at the funeral.

We are staying with my brother on the night of 16/1 and he will take us to the funeral on the 17th.

We will however be looking (begging) for a lift from the church to the "after service" thing and will need to get to a railway station (Stowmarket or Ipswich) in the early evening. We hope that among our mates here and in the Middle Bar we will get around this slight problem somehow.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 07 Jan 05 - 04:54 PM

My condolences.

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: My guru always said
Date: 09 Jan 05 - 01:40 PM

Since Phot mentioned the Wendy House, we've uploaded Richard's photos of the outside & the inside of the Wendy House to this page. However did you guys manage it indeed??? There are some more recent pictures of Chris too.

We'll be there on the 17th, unsure of travel plans but may be able to offer lifts on the day.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Noreen
Date: 09 Jan 05 - 04:14 PM

Thanks for the lovely pics, guru.
Stewart and I will see you there on the 17th. There will be a wonderful chorus of voices there for Chris!

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: karen k
Date: 09 Jan 05 - 04:43 PM

Noreen, I hope you will sing Some Bright Day.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Big Mick
Date: 09 Jan 05 - 05:22 PM

I didn't know this gentle man, but clearly his voice will be easy to find among the many friends. God be good to him.

My sympathy to the family and friends,

Mick

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Morticia
Date: 09 Jan 05 - 06:27 PM

Mick, you always know just the right thing to say, thank you my dear friend.

Idris and I will be there and should be able to offer a lift to those in need.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: The Admiral
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 10:51 AM

Is there any confirmation of the times and venues for the funeral yet?

Tony

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Morticia
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 12:00 PM

just sent you an e-mail, Admiral

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Gervase
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 12:43 PM

Framsden Church, 12 for 12.30, and then Debenham Village Leisure Centre from 2pm.
You can find Framsden here, and Debenham is just two miles away.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 01:02 PM

69

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 01:12 PM

That is not funny on a friend who has not even been laid to rest yet.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 05:23 PM

I humbly apologise for my mistaken posting. Best wishes, Mike.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: alanww
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 07:38 PM

Hello All
I am now back online and I am glad to see so many positive comments about my dear mate, Chris, in this thread. Thank you everyone.
Given the distances involved, Sandy & I and Derek & Mary are intending to go up on Sunday 16 Jan, to stay at the local Travelodge (at the very reasonable price of £26 per family room per night!), to go to the funeral and wake on Monday 17 Jan and to leave on the morning of Tuesday 18 Jan. Other than Steve & Sally, who have already said that they will be staying over, is anyone else likely to be staying for the Monday evening/night? I can supply further details of this cheap accommodation, if requested.
Also, does anyone have any photos or recordings of Chris singing which they could let Gwynneth have? No rush for this but she would obviously be very grateful for anything.
In addition, if anyone has any anecdotes or memories of interesting or amusing occasions involving Chris I would be very interested asap please.
BTW, when I spoke to Gwynneth tonight she said she was fairly relaxed about the dress code for the funeral - wear what you will feel comfortable in (but she does not expect everyone to turn up in Middle Bar or Shellback Chorus t-shirts!).
"He abides with us for ever!"
Alan

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 08:27 PM

Thanks to Guru for for the Photo Link. My pics of The Wendy House had to be seen, after Phots mention of that happy time. I gather Gwynneth would like to have photos of Cris, Phot will have the best ones. However my thoghts are for the memory of a special gentleman who will be missed by myself and so many others. I will be there for the farewell.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: billybob
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 08:31 PM

we have fond memories of Chris at the Walton on Naze festivals, we cannot be there on Monday , but will have you in our thoughts.Best wishes to Gwynneth
Wendy and Bill

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: billybob
Date: 10 Jan 05 - 08:50 PM

we have fond memories of Chris at the Walton on Naze festivals, we cannot be there on Monday , but will have you in our thoughts.Best wishes to Gwynneth
Wendy and Bill

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Gervase
Date: 11 Jan 05 - 04:20 AM

Some people have asked if they can hear the MP3 of Chris singing Blessed Quietness. The MBS site is members only, but I can email the file to you (as well as his superb A Folksinger Cut Down, also recorded at the Middle Bar Singers' winter reunion last February) if you message me with your email address (files have been slimmed down to about two and a half meg apeice).

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Jan 05 - 12:30 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 15 Jan 05 - 12:31 PM

Steve says that Theresa Tooley was planning to come but will be unable to do so as her son is ill. She sends her thoughts.

We'll be staying Sunday and Monday nights.

See you all on Monday.

Sally and The Schantieman.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 16 Jan 05 - 01:37 PM

Hope you all have a safe journey and give our Chris a good send off.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 17 Jan 05 - 12:31 PM

Unable to get to the funeral but turned the radio off in the car and sang a few for Chris!

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 17 Jan 05 - 05:32 PM

It was truly a memorable day... the service was over an hour long, but despite the freezing church, we didn't notice it. There were songs, tears, laughs and surprises...

It was indeed a privilege to know Chris, but even after knowing him for something like 10-12 years, I learned more about him today than I ever did before.

The 'do' afterwards was, as you would imagine, full of songs, anecdotes and tunes. He was sung home in proper style, and will be sorely missed.

Thank you ColK for making it possible for me to be there.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 17 Jan 05 - 06:57 PM

Johnny Collins told me it was standing room only, and that, thanks to the video of the MBS reunion, Chris sang Blessed Quietness at his own funeral. With big harmonies from the congregation. Thanks guys - sorry I couldn't make it.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: MBSLynne
Date: 18 Jan 05 - 02:59 AM

Gervase and Alan ww both did a wonderful job of the bits they read and said (as did the others). Hearing Chris's voice singing "Blessed Quietness" at his own funeral was almost surreal and very moving. I was just glad I was able to be there

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 18 Jan 05 - 04:17 PM

Trust Chris to get the last bloody song!!

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Schantieman
Date: 19 Jan 05 - 08:08 AM

A wonderful send-off. I thought Alan's and Gervase's bits were excellent, and the reading about the trip to Greece by Chris's school friend (whose name I, sadly, didn't get) was absolutely splendid. I suspect the vicar, and one or two of Chris's non-folky friends must have been gobsmaked.

A good sing at Earl Soham later on too.

Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: alanww
Date: 19 Jan 05 - 02:56 PM

For those who unfortunately couldn't get to the funeral - yes Suffolk is a very long way from almost anywhere - the church was packed and both the funeral and wake went off smoothly.
About twenty Mudcatters, ten Shellback Chorus, twenty Middle Bar Singers, all five Navy Cut, all six Capstan Full Strength and many other individual folkies managed to get there to pay our respects. Thank you everyone. I know Gwynneth appreciated the fact that there was such a strong attendance.
If anyone who was not able to attend would like to read the oration I did for Chris, please let me know. If they PM me their email addresss, I will be happy to send it to them as a Word file.
"He abides with us for ever!"
Alan
BTW for the record, Chris's school friend was Laurie Palmer.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Schantieman
Date: 20 Jan 05 - 05:47 AM

Thanks, Alan.

..er, yes, I meant gobsmacked.

S

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Moose
Date: 20 Jan 05 - 02:04 PM

As one of the most recent members of Capstan Full Strength, I am sorry to say I only met Chris twice. Both these occasions were within the last year, and he was unfailingly generous, complimentary and interested. It was a privilege to be allowed to sing with the crew at Chris' funeral on Monday, and to witness such warmth, sincerity and depth of feeling. I intend to be part of his living legacy for years to come.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,His sister Jessamy
Date: 20 Jan 05 - 02:19 PM

Hi everyone.

I want to thank you all for the wonderful things you have posted here.
Xopher was the last of my immediate family really, and I will miss him dreadfully, although I sense him around still.

Please send me the link of file of him singing Blessed Peace.
I loved it in the church.

Once again thankyou to all of you.
The family just loved the festival that sent him off in true style.

With love
Jessamy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 20 Jan 05 - 04:29 PM

Jessamy - I have Emailed Gervase who has access to the Middle Bar Singers site where the MP3 is, hopefully he'll be able to help you.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Jessamy
Date: 21 Jan 05 - 06:01 PM

Thankyou Liz,

my email is [e-mail]

Do send me any links to that address.
Also anyone know of a folk group near Hemel Hempstead that I could join? It was my new year resolution to take up singing again...

Love jessamy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Jessamy
Date: 23 Jan 05 - 05:17 PM

If anyone wishes to see photos of the day - mainly family I'm afraid... The link is ...

http://photos.yahoo.com/jessamy99

Enjoy!

With love
Jessamy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Noreen
Date: 24 Jan 05 - 04:45 AM

Thanks Jessamy, but you haven't enabled the public to view your albums- there's a setting you need to change on your Yahoo albums.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Jessamy
Date: 24 Jan 05 - 03:35 PM

Thanks for letting me know.
Please do try again. I think it is fixed now.

Love jessamy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Noreen
Date: 25 Jan 05 - 11:17 AM

Yes, all fixed now. Thanks for letting us see your photos.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Chris' Son (James)
Date: 08 Apr 05 - 08:05 AM

Hello all. I know it was a long while off now but only just found out about the site. If anyone is still visiting these posts I would like to say you have no idea how totally humbling and touching it is to read all of the posts. I myself had no idea how many people knew my father and it brings a tear to know that so many were/are thinking of him. I'm glad he had so many amazing people around him when the Cancer finally got the better of him. He will certainly never be forgotten.

P.s. I notice a number of comments from various people about needing recordings etc onto CD. I have the techno @ work and if anyone needs anything at all, please feel free to contact me at the following [e-mail].

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: MBSLynne
Date: 08 Apr 05 - 08:10 AM

And James....while we are all getting together and singing, Chris will always be with us, along with the others who have gone

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 08 Apr 05 - 08:49 AM

James, it's great that you looked in here. A long way off it may be, but I for one still think of him most days. His rendition of 'Blessed Quietness' is on my MP3 player and a picture of him singing it along with myself, Morticia, Cllr Mike Gibson and Annoying Roger is on my blotter. There is no chance he'll slip quietly from memory.

Whenever it gets overwhelming, you're welcome to post here, there's nearly always a sympathetic ear or an anecdote of his doings....

Take care.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Morticia
Date: 08 Apr 05 - 12:52 PM

Glad you found us James, we all thought the world of your dad but then, he was an easy man to love.I think of him often and wondered how you all were doing...stay in touch,won't you?

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Cllr
Date: 08 Apr 05 - 12:57 PM

Blessed quietness was led by Breton cap in Chris's memory on Easter Sunday at Miskin festival it was a standing chorus, the Gospel session was led by John Heslop Kathy wallace(cats) Chris Wenham (phot) and myself. itwas a lovely moment.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: nutty
Date: 08 Apr 05 - 04:11 PM

It's good to hear from you, James.

There is something about folk music that draws people together in a great extended family.

I only met your father once but was saddened by his death. He was a man who seemed to live life to the full and really came alive when he was singing.

Although I didn't know him well I still cherish that memory of him.

The spirit that finds music here
Will live forever in the air
Si Khan

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Andy Jackson
Date: 09 Apr 05 - 07:37 AM

I have just found this site also, and what a pleasure it was to read . Thank you Jessame for sharing the photos with us all. We "folkies" do indeed, think of ourselves as an extended family with very firm connections. To be able to join with a departed friend's family to pay our last respects is a priviledge indeed. Although sadly I was unable to be with you on that important day, like others my thoughts are frequently with Chris and I sing a particular song in his memory often.
Kindest regards to you all.

Andy

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Dave Earl
Date: 11 Apr 05 - 11:26 AM

Yes I did lead in Blessed Quietness on Easter Sunday.

For two reasons.

Firstly it has always been a b****y good song that many of us have enjoyed singing for goodness knows haow many years and I wanted to give it another outing.

Secondly it was the last song we heard Chris sing (At his own funeral from the recording he had made) and as so many of his friends were at Miskin it seemed appropriate to remember Chris.

Although it now seems to have become a Middle Bar "Standing Chorus" song and I think we always think of Chris when this song is sung. I promise to try not to do too often so as not to detract from what the song now means to us.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Cllr
Date: 11 Apr 05 - 12:42 PM

thanks for that dave well put.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Gervase
Date: 26 May 05 - 11:44 AM

Nicely put, Dave.
To refresh again, if anyone wasn't able to download the file of Chris singing Blessed Quietness, they can hear him singing it on a streaming MP3 file at www.ic-musicmedia.com/Middle_Bar_Singers .

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Morticia
Date: 31 Dec 05 - 10:42 AM

Refresh.......my love and hugs to Gwyneth on this sad anniversary.

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Selchie - (RH)
Date: 31 Dec 05 - 12:09 PM

My thoughts are with you Gwyneth, anniversaries & birthdays of a lost loved one are the most empty, sad times.

All your friends will be thinking of you & remembering Chris with love.

Rosie

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: SussexCarole
Date: 31 Dec 05 - 03:42 PM

Love and hugs from us both Gwyneth

Carole & Andrew xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: GUEST,Oliver Gorniak
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 12:31 AM

Hello all,
I'm Chris' youngest son, Oliver. I'm not sure if this will reach people after so many years, but I felt I had to post, having only just found this thread.
Having read through the posts, it is incredibly touching to see such wonderful memories shared. It still amazes me how many people were affected by my father's somewhat larger than life personality! Certainly, a good portion of my own memories are from the underside of a table in some pub or another, with his booming voice ringing out around me in chorus.
If possible, and if anyone has them, I would greatly appreciate any recordings of my father singing people may have. I have some already, of him singing with Capstan Full Strength, but more would always be appreciated.
Wishing you all well, and with many thanks,
Oli

Subject: RE: Obit: Chris Gorniak (1 January 2005)
From: Mr Red
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 02:56 AM

We remember him. Thanks for the prompt. No recording I'm afraid. Our paths only crossed at festivals.

Subject: RE: 2005 Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 05:11 AM

Hi Oli - I remember you with your father in the Whitby festival lunchtime singarounds that Jim Mageean ran in the Endeavour with Rod Shearman (now with Graeme Knights) and with your mother at the Wareham Wail.

I'll bring this thread to the attention of the Sidmouth Anchor Middle Bar Singers, as I suspect some of them will have recordings of your Dad.

Kitty

Subject: RE: 2005 Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: My guru always said
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 05:52 AM

Oli, Richard Atkins has a video of Chris singing at his last Middle Bar, I'm sure we could get it to you on disc via your Mum. xx

Subject: RE: 2005 Obit: Chris Gorniak
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 07:45 PM

In 2005 I made a point of taking a video of the last Middle Bar sing by Chris . Blessed and Bye Bye Rosiana. His "thank you all my friends that's the last time I will sing for you" was brave and moving for all. I gave a copy to Pam thinking at a raw time perhaps later for Oliver as an adult. I could put clips on the Middle Bar thread but only if Oliver or Pam contacted me first. Chris was an inspiration to me and many. I recall our Navy photographer with so many shots obscuring my view with endless clicks, perhaps we could see the photos as well ?