I learned from Cathy Barton and Dave Para that Bob Dyer passed away this morning (Apr 11). Bob was an historian of Missouri and river lore, often serving on board the Delta Queen in that capacity. He toured with the Discovery String Band along with Cathy, Dave, et al, doing programs about the Lewis and Clark expidition. He wrote many fine songs and performed them on various stages around the mid-west. He was one of the organizers of the Big Muddy Folk Festival in Boonville, and he will be memorialized at that festival on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (this weekend) April 13, 14 and 15. Bob was a gentleman, tolerant and encouraging of the efforts of others, and forever the student of the folklore of his beloved Missouri. He conducted in-school teaching sessions in a number of Missouri school systems, passing on his knowledge and enthusiasm for the past to elementary students around the state. His personality, his knowledge, his performing, and his good humor will be missed for a long time to come. Missouri has lost one of its treasures.
             Jim Hickam