I thought I would try to add something of a personal perspective about John:

He was a walking encyclopedia of anything relating to folk music. While I often heard him hum a little under his breath while someone sang a song, I didn't know him as a musician. Mention any known folksinger, as well as unknown, and you might well get a lecture that detailed everything about that person's life, career, recording history, what his grandmother had for breakfast, etc!

He lived pretty much as a recluse. I spent many hours with him last Fall as he coached me on my archiving project. He was very informed and was seriously dedicated to archiving projects. He recognized the value of my collection and knew no bounds in helping me along.

He was a strong force in the Seattle folk music community ... everyone knew of him and he knew everyone. I believe he was one of the founders (?) of the Seattle Folklore Society, as well as the Pacific Northwest Folkfestival.

He is missed. Bob(deckman)Nelson