2007 Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Micca
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 02:38 PM

I have just added a few more pix I missed when I put the Flickr collection together, If I find more I will add them later

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Menolly
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 01:26 PM

There were more than 140 of us at the funeral. The Chapel at the crematorium, designed to hold about 70 had people all round the walls,Shellbacks standing in a group on the dias at the frount and one or two people who could not get through the door. The minister said afterwards, he had never heard such singing and what were we all doing on Sunday! Colin's Mum seemed bemused by the crowds but smiled to find her son so loved. The Jacobs Join at the reception was splendid and the singing of the expected high standard. Unfortunately we could not stay very long as we had to put the Hatter (my son) on a train back home to Edinburgh.

Gillian

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,sue hall
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 01:13 PM

What a shock when I heard! I knew Colin from stewarding at Whitby and he always had a big smile and a hug for me when we met to sign in.
Goodbye Colin, you will be very much missed.
Sue.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Splott Man
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 10:57 AM

I had Micca's slide show running on my second screen throughout lunchtime.

Lots of kind thoughts from colleagues.

Now I want to hear you lot singing from down yer!

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: vectis
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 10:14 AM

Sat in the garden and said a little prayer for him at 1pm.
Turrah Mate

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: folk1e
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 10:01 AM

All done ..... bar the singing now!

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: s&r
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 05:24 AM

Fylde PD collection is being donated to RNLI in Colin's name. £175.00

Stu

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 05:20 AM

Great pics Micca, spooky looking at the one of you with Colin and Dave Bryant behind you.
Giok.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,Cats at Work
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 05:08 AM

I have been asked to share this with you. When I heard the news I went out into my garden as the sun was setting over the moors in a glorious golden halo, sat under my huge ash tree [the world tree of the ancients] and sang the 'Lament For the Oaks' ~ the farewell song from Heligan for Colin. I hope a fitting tribute to a dear friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Pistachio
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 04:30 AM

Wonderful pics Micca, happy memories.
Hazel.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,MikeB
Date: 07 Sep 07 - 02:31 AM

I've only just heard (via a friend on another message board).

RIP Colin, you'll be missed sorely. Your hugs were a thing of legend and brought comfort to many people over the years.

I know you're at the bar up there, smiling and singing and when we meet again, the first round's on me.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Sorcha
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 10:40 PM

4, almost 5 days now and I'm still having trouble really believing it.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Micca
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 09:11 PM

I have sorted out some of the pix I took that included Colin over several years and the can be seen here at The late Colin Kemp (ColK)

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Carly
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 07:06 PM

I just heard...this is so sad..I met Col when he first came to the Getaway, and so I only spent a short time altogether with him. But when we met, I knew we had been friends always, and I always looked forward to seeing him again...One of the great-hearted of this world is gone. My condolences to his family and his many friends.

Carly Gewirz

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Nemesis
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 05:58 PM

Omigod ..

Col .. not here, but there ...

A big-hearted friend,
Hugs to all his friends and family - I'm so sorry
Nem
xx

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Amazing!
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 05:56 PM

We will miss you Colin buddy. When we got to a festival you would be waiting with a big hug and a joke and an amazing laugh.
You are such a part of so many festivals we will never forget you.
Lots of love
Grace

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,all at musicport
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 08:59 AM

we'll miss you Colin....always reliable, always helpful, aways funny

I can't help but think you might already be manning those pearl gates.......

Jim, Sue & everyone

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,Jean Zagorski
Date: 06 Sep 07 - 04:39 AM

I shall sincerely miss my good friend Big Colin. As a steward at a venue with him, I could always rely on his presence to see off any trouble at the door. He always gave me a hug and a kiss whenever we met at a festival. I offer my condolences to his family.
Goodnight and God Bless you my Dear Friend X

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: squirrelnutkin
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 01:09 PM

rest in peace colin from josh.

I've had the pleasure of stewarding with Colin at the Metropole at Whitby for the last 9 years or so. He will be sadly missed by all of the team and by the folk community at large. I trust the funeral will be a chance for some of his many friends to celebrate a great man and mark his passing.

Steph xx

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: sian, west wales
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 01:02 PM

I've been away and just seen this. I am completely shocked, and can't add anything to what has been said. He was all that is kind and gracious.

Au revoir, Col.

sian

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 11:22 AM

Colin: Rest in Peace...

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Noreen
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 11:14 AM

Steve, hugs for you for posting that.

Joy of Living is one song I would really love to be able to sing on suitable occasions, but I can never hear it or even read the words without filling up.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Schantieman
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 11:01 AM

Noreen - that's such an appropriate and lovely verse. It made me cry again, and it probably will next time I hear somone sing it.

Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: brian retired copper kettle
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 09:42 AM

Deepest sympathy to Colin's family and friends. Only just found out. Michael rang me today with the sad news. Sorry can't attend funeral
my thoughts are with him and everyone touched by the great man.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,greygoose
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 08:44 AM

I will miss those hugs you gave out. you where there larger than life. I will remember you and the advice you gave. rest in peace my friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Moses
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 07:02 AM

Sadly I didn't get to know Col very well - he was just that nice, cuddly-looking big fella who seemed to be at most of the festivals that I went to.

Really sorry to hear the news. My condolences to his friends and family.

Christine

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: CJF
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 06:08 AM

We are greatly saddened by the news of Colin's untimely death. We will miss his light-hearted but common-sense approach as he stewarded our Shows at festivals around the country. We will especially remember his help at Warwick a few years ago when the "yoof" got a bit out of hand and one of them attempted to participate in the event - one look at Colin and he fled! (we knew that Colin wouldn't stuff a burning torch in an appropriate place - he didn't!) We also enjoyed his company on the camp sites, and in the food tents, and in the bar, and at the informal and the formal singing sessions...

"The soul that cannot endure the fire and smoke will not find the secret..."

We believe that Colin found the secret.

CJF
for
Mr. Fox

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,His Worship and the Pig
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 05:57 AM

It's the match that can't be argued, it's the joke that can't be shared
The quiet conversations though you know nobody's there
A hunger food won't satisfy, a wound that can't be healed
A past that's not forgotten and a future not revealed

Come raise your glass and drink to absent friends
As the door behind us closes and another day begins
Think on the ones we've loved and lost who'll never come again
Come raise your glass and drink to absent friends

Here's to you Col!
Jeff & Dave

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,Jeff Parton & Liz Holland
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 05:52 AM

Don't know what to say. It has all been said and we agree with every word. A lovely man and we will miss him. Unfortunately we will not be able to make the funeral but we will be thinking of him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: MBSLynne
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 05:39 AM

Micca, that photo is so beautiful It really encapsulates Colin. I have it in my mind and it will be the way I remember Col, though my eyes are filling up again as I type this....

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Red and White Rabbit
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 04:24 AM

just got a text about this

cant believe it - Col you were always there for me when I needed hugs and advice - you were always there for me and Jess with hugs kisses and smiles wherever we met up and I will miss our daily hugs and chats at Whitby Folk week

I cant believe your gone mate - RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Geoff the Duck
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 03:26 AM

Although the Funeral Arrangements thread has been mentioned, nobody appears to have put a link to it yet, so I wil do so here.


Funeral Arrangements - Colin Kemp

Thanks for the picture of Col and little Molly. It's lovely.
Quack!
Geoff.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Dave Earl
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 03:05 AM

Whoops wrong Thread.

Intended for the funeral arrangement thread.

Dave

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Dave Earl
Date: 05 Sep 07 - 03:03 AM

Yes Noreen when Shellback Fleece was mentioned I guessed as much.

Dave

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,covencat
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 08:01 PM

A big hug for a big man. he'll be sorely missed.Love and condolences to his mum.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Noreen
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 07:41 PM

Take me to some high place of heather, rock and ling
Scatter my dust and ashes, feed me to the wind
So that I will be part of all you see, the air you are breathing
I'll be part of the curlew's cry and the soaring hawk
The blue milkwort and the sundew hung with diamonds
I'll be riding the gentle wind that blows through your hair
Reminding you how we shared
In the joy of living

Ewan MacColl

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Ebbie
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 07:26 PM

Micca. that was a great shot. Congratulations. His expression and stance and his eyes - oh, his eyes - say so much. There is good reason for why so many people recount that they felt safe with him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,Martin Grainger
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 06:46 PM

Haven't known Colin long, but was always glad to see him at Warwick, I was always sure of the help and support I needed at times as a new A/D. I also enjoyed his company before, during and after the event.

He will be greatly missed by all and I wish his family and friends well at this difficult time.

Only the good die young.

Will miss you Col.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,Nancy H
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 06:26 PM

I am in total shock, having only just heard the awful news. I would wish to associate myself with all the remarks made so far. Colin always gave the impression that he was having a good time, but also that to see YOU, personally, was the one thing that was needed to make it perfect.

I last saw Colin on the final night of Whitby - during the final concert at the Met I received some bad news and Col, without question or hesitation, simply walked up and quietly enveloped me in one of those safe, loving, reassuring hugs that have been mentioned so feelingly. A hug from Colin was always an experience to be enjoyed, whether consolatory or exuberant; he had an 'all-overish' quality in everything. To stand in the cool of the Met doorway, tucked under one of those slightly sweaty arms, and giggling helplessly at another outrageous remark, was a good place to be.

He was the last person we said goodnight to before leaving the Spa and his final words were, 'See you at a festival somewhere'.

Sadly not, and the world is a smaller place tonight. I raise a glass of good Islay whisky, and wish you safe home, my darling.

x Nancy (and Sam)

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: GUEST,The black belt caterpillar wrestler
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 05:42 PM

He was just one of those people who you only had to meet to be a friend.
Just makes me think of the song "I'm always glad to see a mon like thee" which I'm sure he and I have listened to together at Limbrick.

Robn Madge (and on behalf of Anne as well)

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Micca
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 05:40 PM

The picture of " Col and the duckling" was taken by me at about 5.30 in the evening on 18 May 2003 at the Yorkshire gathering at the Black dog

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: paula t
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 05:18 PM

Hearing this very sad news inspired me to sign up for this forum. I met Colin at a number of folk festivals recently. He was always ready to give a warm welcome and one of his famous hugs. A lovely, lovely man who will be greatly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: Merek'n'Dary
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 04:41 PM

Banbury Festival will miss him greatly but Derek and I will miss him more! A great friend, always there, reliable, funny, so huggy, solid as a rock and true. Thanks Col for helping make our festival what it is and looking after the artists.

Derek and I thought it strange when he wasn't there when we arrived at Fylde - just knew something must be wrong! We sang "The Outside Track" for him on the beach behind the Marine Hall... He would have liked that.

Yes Noreen, Colin Kemp's Sleeping Area will be there to remember him by at Banbury.

Derek and I will be coming up for the funeral and we will also be bringing Liz Carlile, who is with me as I write.

Thoughts fom Liz: Colin, You gave me many big bear hugs, much kindness and time in my need after Peter's death. I will miss you. Say hello to Peter in the big Folk Festival in the sky.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: Malc Bedworth
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 04:14 PM

Still stunned after hearing the sad news at Fylde. Just couldn't find the appropriate words to say, and still really can't - a fine, cheerful chap who always had time and consideration for everyone (even if he didn't agree with you!). His loss leaves a massive gap on the folkscene.
At least I managed to share a jar and a chat with him at Whitby.
Our thoughts go especially to his family and all those closest to him.
Malc (and all those connected with Bedworth Festival)

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K) 2 Sep 07
From: Chris Green
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 04:06 PM

Just got back from holiday in Sussex to find this. Uncle Col was a true gentleman of folk. I'll certainly miss the old bugger!

Chris

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 03:48 PM

I agree the picture of Col and duckling Mollie is indeed very special. I have been recalling some wonderful times, not the least Col appearing at Saddleworth just in time to rescue me from a muddy fate he thought it was hilarious! Also at Warwick last year outside the Arts Centre -he had been working all day but still stayed into the wee small hours and sang with Hazel Theresa Brian and a few others-it was priceless and so was he.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: Ebbie
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 02:49 PM

"His mum is still trying to get used to the idea of just how popular he was." Tig

That reminds me of some years back when we lost a beloved young man on a local mountain. His family traveled here from Australia and they were dumbfounded at our grief.

"He was just an ordinary bloke," his mother said.

No, he wasn't. And neither was Col.

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: Tig
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 02:41 PM

In case anyone misses the other thread funeral arrangements are for this Friday at 1pm at Skipton Crem. He died of a heart attack. His mum is still trying to get used to the idea of just how popular he was.

Hugs
Tig

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: GUEST,Ian
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 02:18 PM

Two days since I read the news and its still hard to believe. Great man, always lovely company. Nothing was too much trouble and always supportive. I was going to visit him at the metropole and never got there. Wish I had now.
Cheerio old friend.

"the only measure of your words and your deeds is the love you leave behind you when you go"

Subject: RE: Obit: Colin Kemp (Mudcatter Col K)
From: GUEST,Nikki Hampson
Date: 04 Sep 07 - 02:16 PM

Colin stewarded with us for several years. A Lovely man. Was his same cheery self at Birdsedge and Whitby this year.
Such sad news.
Our thoughts to his family and closest friends.

Nikki and Mac