In Memoriam
This page is being constructed in July 2022 - please feel free to email Pat Moore if you have a suggestion for additions to this page.
Here, we recognize Valley Bluegrass members who have left us, as well as members of the larger bluegrass community.
There were many wonderful folks who were members of our organization and gave in some way to the community, whether it was as a performer, writer, promoter, audience member - you all make up what is our Valley Bluegrass community. We thank you for your contribution and honour your gift of music/music appreciation.
Here, we recognize Valley Bluegrass members who have left us, as well as members of the larger bluegrass community.
There were many wonderful folks who were members of our organization and gave in some way to the community, whether it was as a performer, writer, promoter, audience member - you all make up what is our Valley Bluegrass community. We thank you for your contribution and honour your gift of music/music appreciation.
Another Canadian Bluegrass Pillar has left us - Rest in Peace Mike Kirley April 2nd, 1946 - January 6th, 2023
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He also recognized that our festival goers wanted to engage more with the entertainers and learn from them. And from that, he started the Tottenham Bluegrass Workshops, along with his pal, Al Benner,. The workshop continues today bringing together entertainers and festival attendees so they could share their knowledge and love of the music As that is what Bluegrass is all about, THE JOY OF MUSIC. From jamming around a campfire to the door of the RV to the Monday night jams at Man of Yorke to the halls of the local Legions, senior homes spreading the magic of music was something Mike was passionate about. ... Mike Kirley your contributions to Bluegrass and the growth of it in Ontario will never be forgotten. Your smile, your passion for music, and your joy of lending a hand to make things work will be memories we will cherish. May the music live on and may your notes never be forgotten. Rest in Peace our Friend. |
Canadian Bluegrass Has Lost An Icon - Rest in Peace Michael O'Reilly
June 1, 2021
It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of the great singer, songwriter, entertainer, comedian, radio personality, actor, voice over actor, Michael O'Reilly. Our condolences go out to his wife Rose, son Rylan, daughter Devon, and his mother, and all who loved him - there were many.
June 1, 2021
It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of the great singer, songwriter, entertainer, comedian, radio personality, actor, voice over actor, Michael O'Reilly. Our condolences go out to his wife Rose, son Rylan, daughter Devon, and his mother, and all who loved him - there were many.
Gayle DumsdayKeith Hansen |
Tony de BoerThe Ottawa Valley Bluegrass Music Association extends our deepest sympathy to the de Boer family at the loss of their beloved patriarch, Tony de Boer. Tony will be remembered by so many at home, across this country, and internationally as a pillar in the bluegrass community; his contributions were immense.
For more information and to connect with the de Boer family, you can check the Northern Bluegrass Committee webpage and facebook page. Rest in Peace Tony de Boer. |