[Dixielandjazz] Vale Mike Sutcliffe

[Bill Haesler]

Dear friends,
It is with great sadness that I have to advise that my dear friend, 
jazz researcher Mike Sutcliffe died, peacefully in his sleep, yesterday 
afternoon, Saturday 19th May 2007, aged 69.
Mike had been diagnosed with terminal asbestosis last September, the 
result of his occupation as a builder and life-long exposure to 
asbestos-based building materials. Unfortunately it took hold all too 
quickly.
A quiet, retiring man, Mike was a Sydney jazz backroom boy who, over 40 
years, contributed more than most to Australian jazz and whose name is 
included the acknowledgment lists in dozens of international jazz, 
books, discographies, journals and magazines.
Mike founded and published the extremely important Australian Record 
and Music Review in April 1989, but ill-health forced its cessation at 
issue No. 72 in January this year
Mike has had a long association with the National Film & Sound Archive, 
the NSW Mitchell Library, the NSW and Victorian Jazz Archives and other 
similar institutions.
Following a private family cremation, a Thanksgiving Service will be 
held at St Andrews Presbyterian Church, McKern Street, Wentworthville, 
NSW at 11.00 am. Tuesday, 22nd May 2007.
Mike will be sorely missed by his many friends and by jazz in general.
Kind regards,
Bill.