Obit: Tom Dundee injury and death (1946-2006)

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 06 May 06 - 10:44 PM

The WNUR Folk Show tomorrow morning will be dedicated to Tom. It will air on Sunday, May7 from 10am to Noon CDT at 89.3FM WNUR - Evanston and online at www.wnur.org/ and will be archived later for streaming -- details here. Performing guests to include Mick Scott, Kat Eggleston, Chris Farrell, Donna Adler, Small Potatoes, David Bragman,and Jamie Swise.

—BK

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,Michael Tomlinson
Date: 07 May 06 - 09:56 PM

Tom Dundee has come into my thoughts so many times over this last month. TR Ritchie emailed me the night of his accident and I remember grabbing my guitar and singing something for Tom right then. It seemed to be the best way to pray for him. I sat that night, feeling Tom, remembering the times we'd shared the stage back in the 80s, times since then when we'd taken long walks and Tom had told me of his latest adventures. There are few people who have inspired as many re-tellings of a story as Tom Dundee. His real life experiences were just so magical and outlandish and charming and insane that you couldn't help but tell a friend or two.

If he was incarnate back then, I'd swear Tom might have been Davy Crockett. He was that kind of traveling storyteller/adventurer/ambassador. There was the time he woke up from sleeping at a roadside rest stop in his car, when a group of runners came up the road. It was a marathon and half-marathon being run. All Tom had were the cowboy boots he had on. He decided instantly to run along, thinking he'd laugh a bit, then turn around and come back. But he started enjoying it and thinking, "Hey, I could maybe complete this thing!" So he ran a half-marathon in his cowboy boots. As if that itself weren't enough to stun any listener, then he added, "What amazed me was that I had this calcium deposit on my heel that hurt like hell. Man, by the end of that run it had completely disappeared!"

The night before Tom's passing I sat after I sang for him and tried to feel him. I asked that my own spirit touch his and comfort him, listen to him, whatever happens when two souls really connect. What I felt was so beautiful. Tom was laughing. He was not in the least unhappy. Tom was happy about where he was in that very moment. I got the strongest feeling that he was off on another of his adventures.

I'm not saying this to be upbeat and optimistic about what goes on after we pass on. I'm just sharing what I felt from Tom that night. I thought if it hadn't occurred to you, that you might like to know.

Michael Tomlinson - Seattle, WA

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,margo Lincoln Ave.
Date: 08 May 06 - 01:46 AM

Snail mail just brought me this sad, sad news. Hi, Art. I loved Tom Dundee. There was NO ONE who didn't love Tom Dundee.I met him in the 70s on Lincoln Avenue. I was a cocktail waitress and a bartender -- and a college professor. Tom loved the Cubs (even though he loved baseball). He loved the Buddha. He loooooved seaweed juice. Whatever sturm und drang I suffered (and they were frequent, me being a drama queen), Tom would hug me and smile, and tell me how it all passes, it all passes. Tom was a hellraiser, too. Are there any more of us left? Tom had a beater then that he called Magenta. One of the things we loved to do in the winter is harrass Chicago's Snow Patrol. They would plow an area, go on to another place, and we six would jump out of the car and do snow angels like crazy (spreading the snow back in the street, of course. We would bellow SNOW PATROL! They chased us once, so we split a 12 pack with them. They let Tom sit on the top of the plow's cab. Then we all broke into song (I've forgotten which.) I will continue reading the notes posted here -- and say a couple of prayers. Mike Jordan, Fred Holstein, Tom Dundee.
What a time we had, didn't we, Art? I'm retired, been living in Florida for a couple of years. Love, Margo Rogalin Gariepy [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,GUEST,Tom Ogburn
Date: 08 May 06 - 02:18 AM

I thought for a minute that I would not know where to start. But then I remember something I wrote to TR and Michael concerning your death. In July of 1982, as I drove over the Cascades into the wet side of the state, I heard some incredible music from a radio station I had tuned into in my old Dodge van. New music, to me, but what I was to learn was well known to many others along the northern corridor of the country. I heard "A Delicate Balance" for the first time, played on KEZX, and I was taken by the message. Then I heard "The Climb," just a few minutes later. "What world is this," I wondered, as I approached my home.

It was the first time I had ever known a true home. A home of the heart. My family grew from the friends I made, and one of the first was you. I remember the puzzled look on your face when I handed you a card, and asked if you might ever need a graphic designer for an album project. Two or three days later I got a call and you explained that you had just finished a new album and had no clue who to go to for the design. In the next few years, I was introduced to an extended family of musicians, music lovers, radio and recording people, and concerts and gigs, venues and critics, and songwriters who taught me, through just sheer exuberance and belief, that to live what you love best is the best life you can live.

I remember that dog Bob Johnson, sitting on cue for the album photo shoot. Both of us driving to Vancouver, BC, to shrink wrap "Right Lane Man" by hand while the record company guys looked on in bewilderment. But you had a budget, man… Shooting pool, the Doghouse for breakfast, and wandering around the Northwest with you and TR Ritchie. Sitting at the door, then listening to you both change the night into reflection and peace. I learned a lot about friendship in those years, and at times I still feel that you are a bodhisaatva in a way. Croquet tournaments that were contact sport as everyone tried to take home pink flamingos. I can't tell you how many times I've introduced my friends to Prairie Fires, as you did for me at the Virginia Tavern. I crawl-walked all the way back up to Queen Anne Hill…

When I called one of my friends to tell her that you had died, I mentioned to her all sorts of remnant pieces of our friendship, over twenty years ago. I mentioned those Prairie Fires, and she said, "So HE's the guy responsible for that." And I smiled, cause that was as sly a comment as you would have made, Dundee. She crawl-walked home with me one night after Prairie Fires a few months ago. Luckily, I'd forgotten that part.

I just read Michael's post, and like him, I heard of your accident from TR by email. It took the wind from me, and left a gaping hole as his message said, "Tom, we're going to lose him." That night TR and I spoke by phone and I learned you took off at last. These last few weeks have been hard, just knowing the times that I could have traveled to Chicago, or to Nashville, to hang out and have one more beer, or eight more Prairie Fires. I can't express how sad I am that I lost touch with you, my friend. But I can say that I have told many friends about you over the years, and what I learned in Seattle from a family of creative people who taught me to follow your heart.

Last November, I learned that my lead Professor, who taught me almost all I know about painting, had slipped into dementia and suffers from rapidly advancing Alzheimer's. I teach now in a college, and as I read the letter from his wife to my students, I told them of Harry's words to me as a student, and how my words are just an amalgam of all that I've been taught by many great teachers and dear friends. After that, I read them the lyrics to "A Delicate Balance" as a eulogy to Harry. It was hard to get through that reading, for many reasons. And now, I understand that you have gone. And there is that large, gaping hole. But in it, there is feeling that your lessons in friendship will more than fill that gap, my old friend.

Thank you, TR, for sharing with me Tom's passing. Thank you, Dundee, for pointing me in the right direction.

Peace and Care to all of you,

Tom

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 09 May 06 - 04:39 AM

This past Sunday night, May 7th,2006, a small bar called Lily's on Lincoln Ave. in Chicago payed tribute to Tom's memory. A more formal tribute will be held next Sunday at the Old Town School of Folk Music. That will be the funeral. Last Sunday was the wake; a bunch of old friends gathering to sing songs, swap stories, and drink to Tom's memory. Amongst the performers were Al Day, Harry Waller, Sandy Andina, Mick Scott, Irwin Helfer, and so many others. I know that I'm leaving out, at least, a dozen or so. My apologies to those I left out. The finale was Chris Farrel leading all of the performers plus Earl Pionke to sing "Delicate Balance". It was quite an experience and quite a send-off. Some of the people there I hadn't seen in upwards of twenty years. We all seemed to pick up the conversation where it had left off. My only regret is that it would have been nice to have re-united with these folks under happier circumstances.
    There is a fund which has been set up to help to pay for Tom' last expenses and to get him a proper headstone. As soon as I have an address for it I'll post it here.

Stephen Lee

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 09 May 06 - 08:52 PM

The Tom Dundee Memorial/Benefit Fund
P.O. Box 269212
Chicago, IL 60626

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Chris in Wheaton
Date: 15 May 06 - 02:03 PM

Thanks to all who performed and helped with the memorial concert last night at the Old Town School for our good friend, Tom. The comment that kept being repeated was that Tom always greeted and treated everyone as if they were his or her best friend. It was a very sad night, but it makes me very glad and proud that have I supported and received so much from this folk music community for going on 40 years. A greater group of people will never be found.
Chris in Wheaton

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,TR Ritchie
Date: 20 Sep 06 - 12:30 AM

Here's one for ya, Tommy...

I'M GONNA TAKE IT WITH ME WHEN I GO
(c)2006 TR Ritchie   

When it's my time to go it's not the dying that I mind
But I'm sure gonna miss some things I'll have to leave behind
So I've thought the matter through and I've decided what to do
I'm gonna take it with me when I go

I'm gonna take it with me when I go
They say it can't be done, but no one knows
So let the record show I've defied the status quo
'Cause I'm gonna take it with me when I go

I'll say good-bye to my old walking shoes
And leave them here for someone else to use
Those shoes have served me well
and oh, the stories they could tell
That's what I'll take with me when I go

I'll hand off my guitar for someone else to play
May it take them just as far as it did me in my day
I'll miss it when I'm gone but I'll hang onto the songs
That's what I'll take with me when I go

It'll be fare-the-well my darlings I loved you one and all
I'm ever in your debt for tender moments I recall
The temptations of your charms, the shelter of your arms
That's what I'll take with me when I go

I'll gather up the memories of the many friends I've known
I'll take along the love and kindness I've been shown
The light of all those hearts will be a beacon in the dark
That's what I'll take with me when I go

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 18 Apr 07 - 01:32 AM

For the last few days Tom has been much in my thoughts as we approach the anniversary of his death. Then today a relative telephoned me to ask if I might possibly be able to procure a ticket for him to "next month's sold-out Tom Dundee concert" -- it was hard having to tell him that the Web page he had seen announced a memorial concert that took place a year ago.

I miss the guy terribly, as must all of us who loved him so.

—BK

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,Art Thieme
Date: 18 Apr 07 - 07:06 PM

Bruce,

You're correct, good sir. I've been thinking of Tom recently too---I hadn't realized -- it's been a year already. ---- I do hope you folks are well!! We're hangin' in. No noose though.
(No noose is good noose!)

Art

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Phil Cooper
Date: 18 Apr 07 - 07:11 PM

I was thinking about Tom the other day as well. I'll miss the killer version of Moma Tried that he used to sing.

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 18 Apr 07 - 07:22 PM

I think of Tom every time I perform his song "These Cowboys". I've had some people asking about where to find recordings of his music lately. I know that there a re a few links in this thread. Any additional links would be greatly appreciated.

Stephen Lee Rich

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Chris in Portland
Date: 18 Apr 07 - 11:45 PM

The Tom Dundee cd is out. It is sad to hear him, but Jim Tullio did an excellent job of selecting songs and included some great stories by Tom too. Nice to hear some of the old songs.
Chris in Portland (was Wheaton)

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 19 Apr 07 - 12:35 AM

Actually, there are two 2-CD sets newly released -- available here (click me).

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 19 Apr 07 - 12:47 AM

Thanks, BK

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,Jeanette
Date: 19 Apr 07 - 10:58 AM

I've posted this before, but just so people know, there is a Tom Dundee Memorial myspace here: http://www.myspace.com/tomdundee, maintained by myself and by James Lee Stanley.

If you're a myspace member, please go and friend the site. Even if you're not, but you have memories or pictures of Tom that you'd like to share, please email me direct at [e-mail] and I'll arrange to put up an album of your pictures or otherwise. All of the CD's at CD Baby and the new website that Mark Elliott put together are linked to the myspace as well.

I only knew Tom for about two years but he made a big impact on me. I send heartfelt condolences to all of you who knew him well.
-Jeanette

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,ET Puget Sound Area
Date: 30 Jul 07 - 05:38 PM

Like a ripple in a calm lake, this heartshattering news finally reaches those of us who lived farther away, and yet remain blessed by Tom Dundee's influence.

When I put his CDs on this morning, for some reason, it just seemed right. Then I went to the Internet to see if there was any new news about Tom.

We were last in touch in November before he died in April last year. He sent me his CDs; I sent him a scarf. Scarves were a running joke between us.

We put a tile in the Pike Place Market floor in '86--"Right Lane Man." I had the certificate mounted and framed as a coffee cup coaster and gave it to Tom. Last time I saw it, he kept it in his truck.

I believe he's circling around us all--up there--somewhere, singin', hummin' and laughin' with us.

Tom told me a story about his father's death. He told me that his father was in a bank (I think) and felt 'not right', so asked for a place to lie down. He laid his body down on a bench and said "I don't feel good," and then turned his head and he died. Tom said that he wanted to go that way, quickly and quietly.

It's good news that he had a partner and that he went out on his bike. It doesn't sound like he suffered: God just came for him because He needed a storyteller with a voice and a heart.

Part of Tom will always be with us and we are all blessed.

Love, ET

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 30 Jul 07 - 11:41 PM

Thanks, Jeanette.

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,Sharoonie
Date: 10 May 08 - 02:28 AM

I miss my wonderful friend...thinking of you always...but especially right this very moment.....

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 17 Apr 09 - 02:41 AM

Coming up on three years now since Tom left us -- thought I'd refresh this thread.
Up above I posted links to three mp3s. Here's one more (use mudcat for name and pasword)
of Kat Eggleston and Michael Johnson's lovely version of "Love Doesn't Die."
More of this magical stuff is available at CD Baby.

—BK

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 18 Apr 10 - 02:28 AM

Wanted to refresh this thread on the fourth anniversary of Tom's death, and place a link here
to this video (containing a few stage patter clips followed by A Delicate Balance) which was screened
at the Memorial Tribute Concert on May 14, 2006 at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago.

—BK

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Apr 10 - 03:55 PM

nothing to do with this post, but saw your mention of Leonda Hardison. I remember her singing to a bunch of us when we were kids on the Cape. Always wondered what became of her

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 17 Apr 11 - 07:09 PM

Been five years now. Listen to some of Tom's songs tomorrow.
Don't we ever miss that guy!

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 24 Apr 12 - 05:13 PM

Remembering Tom.

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: BK Lick
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 01:40 AM

Tim Moran and I sang a few of Tom's songs at a Vespers service yesterday. Missing that guy so much.

Subject: RE: Tom Dundee injured - passed away (April 2006)
From: GUEST,Jeff
Date: 29 Aug 14 - 04:39 AM

Has been over 8 years since Tom's passing and I think of him almost every day. We drifted apart as lives will do, but his affect on me was profound and lifelong. Recently someone posted pictures on Facebook of Tom, Mick Scott and me performimg at the Old Town School Of Folk Music's all night party in 1981. It was really a bittersweet moment to see them. We were performimg A Delicate Balance. We were really on that night and tore it up on several songs. Mick had a great song called "The Pinball Game".

Tom had a tour scheduled and asked Mick and me to go along. We all had a substantial catalog of songs and it was Tom's intent for us to be a band and work out setlists featuring the best of our individual compositions in a band form. I was going to play acoustic bass, not an upright, but an Ernie Ball Earthwood, guitar and harmonica. Mick on guitar and mandolin, w/Tom as the draw and playing guitar and harmonica as well.

We had started rehearsals, but forces pulled us all in different directions and it never came to fruition. Sad, really. Mick and Tom were established, well respected songwriters and I was just beginning to forge a reputation. Whenever I'd write a new song Tom would be the first person for whom I'd play it. He had 2 phrases he used: "Yeah, now yer tawkin'" or "I thnk you need to dig deeper".

When Tom got the go ahead funding for his album 'A Delicate Balance' I was the first person he asked to be involved. My contributions were arrangement suggestions and playing on 6 or 7 cuts. As a result he gave me a co-production credit.

My personal favorite Tom Dundee song is 'If my Life Were A Book"

If my life were a book and all my time were the pages
Of all the chances that I took in all the chapters of my ages
The pages would fall open to the times of me and you
The corners would be folded from the times I read them through
And that's how my time would look if my life were a book

Once while recording his LP we took a break and went around the corner to have a beer. Buster Ursini, the engineer, Tom and me. We ended up playing pinball and getting really, really drunk. So we staggered back to the studio singing the Jim Reeves song "He'll Have To Go" at the top of our lungs arm in arm for support. We got back to the studio and Tom wanted to sing 'You're So Pretty When You Smile". So, he goes into the vocal room and proceeds to peel the paint with his vocal. It was SO bad Buster and I told him he'd gotten it in one take and we didn't even want him to hear it until tomorrow. So, he agreed and when we all came back the next day...hungover of course. We played the track and it was even worse than we'd remembered. Nobody laughed louder than Tom. He was a devil of the practical joke, but could take as good as he gave. I loved Tom. Still do. Always will. He was my friend, brother, co-worker, hero, mentor and friend.

The reason it's taken me this long to post is because it took me this long to fully grieve his passing. There's a part of me ripped out that simply will never be replaced. Much more than a songwriter he was a singular life force whose collected works will be taught as literature in the future.