This page is began in 2022 to recognize Valley Bluegrass members who have left us, as well as members of the larger bluegrass community who have had an impact on us. Please feel free to email Pat Moore if you have a suggestion for additions to this page.
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.
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.
The OVBMA extends our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Kim Wallace.
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The Ottawa Valley Bluegrass Association and the South Grenville Bluegrass Festival Committee have lost an essential member and perhaps the person that demonstrates its heart and soul, with the passing of Kim Wallace. The sad news has devastated our Bluegrass community.
Kim, with his life partner Lisa Pigeau, have been involved with the Association and Festival for many years - approaching two decades holding various jobs. Kim had a dream with a vision of starting a bluegrass festival under the banner of the OVBMA and they both were instrumental in starting the South Grenville Bluegrass Festival. Kim was very much responsible for it’s growth and success. With his tireless work, our Festival celebrated a 10th year and with record attendance! Many consider The South Grenville Bluegrass Festival to have become the finest bluegrass festival in Canada. It was in this space that Kim loved to interact with friends and other Bluegrass folk. Association members and bands alike have had much appreciation for Kim beyond these accomplishments in terms of his enormous contributions to the community, as well as with regard to his quiet way of getting things done. Kim was a sincere and humble man, a truly kind and giving person, and a pleasure to know and to associate with. But it was his dedication to music that allowed us to intersect as I am sure most Valley Grass Members would agree. Whether simply talking about groups or jamming, it was always fun to get together, play a tune and or take time to talk. With Shawn and Lisa’s consent, I would like to relay Shawn’s and perhaps the family’s message at this difficult time. "He loved his partner, his children, grandchildren, his extended family and all his friends. Kim was not just a father but so much more. He was kind and generous with his time. He was a mentor in the local community and of course in the Bluegrass community. He loved his family, he loved his community and he certainly loved Bluegrass with all his heart and soul." In Shawn’s message he communicated that he hoped that he could "carry on his father’s traits." But I dare say that we all wish we could strive to carry on those same traits and characteristics that Kim demonstrated. Kim, you were loved by all those around you and all who knew you. On behalf of the Ottawa Valley Bluegrass Music Association we say a fond and loving farewell to our good friend Kim Wallace, and extend our deepest condolences to Lisa, and to his family. May he rest in peace. Dan Buch, President, Ottawa Valley Bluegrass Music Association on behalf of the Board and the Festival Committee 
Photo by Sandra Day
Official Obituary can be found at https://byersfuneralhomeinc.ca/obituary/kimberly-brent-wallace/
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Our Deepest Condolences to the Tarte Family at the passing of Dorothy Tarte
Dorothy was the wife of Valley Grass Board of Directors member Donald Tarte, who has served Valley Grass for many many years, tirelessly. We send our deepest condolences to Donald and his family.
Obituary: Tarte, Dorothy Ann Dorothy Ann Tarte (nee Lusk) of Ottawa, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at the age 89. Dorothy was the devoted wife of Donald, who survives her. She was the loving mother of Thom (Julie), Shawn, Daniel and Steven and the proud grandmother of Raleigh and Spencer. Born in Luskville, Quebec on June 19, 1935, Dorothy was the daughter of the late Victoria (Payne) and Roy Lusk. She was predeceased by her beloved brothers, Barry (Gisele) and Fred (Barbara). Dorothy is survived by her loving siblings, Bud (Betty) and Joan (Kenneth Trudeau). Dorothy grew up with her family under the shadow of the Eardley Escapement. She attended Aylmer High School and completed her education in Lachute, Quebec. This led to her training as a stenographer and moving to Ottawa to work at External Affairs and later for a Member of Parliament. She also spent time traveling in Europe during these years. It was while taking driving lessons in Ottawa that she met her future husband, Donald. Soon there were four young boys in the household, and Dorothy had her hands full raising them on Fentiman Ave. She managed to fit in her interest in gardening and crafts along the way. After spending 10 years at home raising the boys, she returned to the workplace to help Donald with his driving school businesses, before moving on to her last job with the Ottawa Carleton Safety Council. A big part of Dorothy and Donald's retirement years were the road trips they took, Donald driving and Dorothy navigating. Together they shared a life filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support were the cornerstones of her family. She was known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering commitment to her family and her faith. Dorothy's legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Donald and his sons would like to thank Maureen & Bob Beauregard and Gloria & Gerald Gilbert for all they have done to support Dorothy over the past few years and during her time at Montfort Hospital. A funeral service will be held at Southminster United Church, 15 Aylmer Ave., Ottawa on Friday, October 11th at 1:00 pm. |
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Valley Grass mourns the loss of long time member Ken Gordon.
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March 8, 2024
It is with great sadness that we tell our friends in the bluegrass community that our good friend Ken Gordon passed away suddenly on Friday March 8. Ken was a wonderful supporter of bluegrass in the region, a mandolin player and student, a member of Gospel Grass, and a super nice man. He will be greatly missed by his wife of close to 70 years, Carole, and his daughters Deborah and Susan. The wake and service will be on March 23 at Pinecrest Cemetery 11am (visitation) and 12noon (service) with a reception to follow. There will be a posting in the Ottawa Citizen on March 16th. More information and photos of Ken to come. |
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Another Canadian Bluegrass Pillar has left us.
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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.
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Gayle Dumsday
Keith Hansen
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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.
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