[Dixielandjazz] Jackie Coon R.I.P.

[Don Ingle]

My memories of Jackie Coon are good ones, from the time he and I both 
were in late teens--early 20's and used to come to Club 47 in Studio 
City to hear the jam session with the likes of Matty Matlock, Eddie 
Miiler, John Best, and other studio guys that came to sit in to keep 
jazz chops up after all studio work. They were like mentors to both of 
us. Jackie was a phenom early on. In late years he preferred to play 
pfluegal horn most of the time, but I remember the wonderful fat and 
warm cornet sound he got.
He worked at the Hangover with a group of Jerry Fuller, Jack Perciful, 
Charlie Lodice, Ira Wesley and I hung around just to hear his wonderful 
flow of ideas, He always was a melodic and lyrical player and a gentle 
soul on stand or off. He had a passel of kids -- I lost count the last 
time I heard. His brother gene was the producer of the original Maverick 
TV show with Jim Garner.
I imagine that Charlie Lodice can tell some tales as well. Jackie worked 
at Disneyland, and I caught him once in a suit, shaved, beardless with 
his hair left gray and wearing a tie -- so unlike his beach boys 
dressage of later - on the Lawrence Welk show, introduced as a guest. 
Never saw him there again.
This is really a bit of bad news. Each month to brings me the peeling 
off of a part of my life as friends pass on. Not to be unexpected. Hey, 
at 76 I'm just happy to be around. but my old circle of LA area friends 
of younger days are starting to drop off. It started with Gene Estes, 
who I played with thought jr. and senior high with and worked with 
later. Another high schcool Bud Matlock, Matty's Son and a fine 
guitarist who was a speed walker contestant and in great health until 
something burst in his head.
Last time I saw Jackie was in Sacro Fest-- he was with Jake Stock. We 
had a good catch up chat. He was one beautiful player, a good friend, 
and he will be missed very much by this fellow, and many others as well. 
Take a well earned five, good friend,
and catch you later.
Don Ingle

Nancy Giffin wrote:
> Hello list mates,
>
> Sorry to say I got word that Jackie Coon,
> the "Gentle Bear from Monterey"
> passed away some time last week at home in Hawaii.
> I can't find any obit on-line.
> Perhaps some of you have info or nice memories to share of his music and
> personality.
>
> Love and hugs,
> Nancy
>
>
>
>
>
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