If you read the messages we sent to Animaterra, Raptor and Allan, the sentiments are very helpful. I will be going to a funeral on monday for the 92 year old man who was a champion fiddler, who I accompanied in several contests. It is different when a 92 year old passes on that when someone younger does. I think there is apt to be more anger at lost time for someone who goes suddenly with seemingly years left to enjoy, share, etc.

I find myslef wondering at these things--I do not know what MOAB is. and I cannot imagine an electric wash board! You must have had memories of your frineds and their music, and these are what to hold in your heart and mind at this time...
I, for one, plan to continue making music to honor my mentor and to keep his memory alive! as Connie Kaldor says in a song : "I will go to a river and plant a tree, something strong wild and living cuz those are my memories..." I have found that music has helped me so much...when I am not able to speak my sorrow i can still sing, and to sing at a gathering, which we now often call a celebration of life, rather than a funeral or memorial service, has been a wonderful and cathartic thing. thank you for sharing your situation, and I am so grateful that we can meet here and share like this. Laurel