[Dixielandjazz] Rod Kempel R.I.P.

[Robert Ringwald]

Lee Floyd asked me to post this.

******

> I am sad to be following up on this health alert about Rod Kempel. This is
> a few days late but I feel there may be many folks on the dixieland net
> and your list of jazz friends who were friends with Rod Kempel who may not
> aware of this news.
>
> Perhaps you would be kind enough to post the news if it has not already be
> posted for the benefit of his friends.
>
 > Many of the list-mates probably remember Rod Kempel's presence at banjo
conventions and jazz festivals ranging from California to Arizona to Atlanta
Georgia over the past 30+ years.
>
> He was a great banjo devotee/player and a self-taught tuba player. He
> learned the later because he attended so many Banjo Jamborees and Jazz
> Festivals that were always in need of a tuba player.
>
> He was a successful retired businessman who was passionate about
> banjo, and music in general. He lived on the shores of beautiful Flathead
> Lake in Montana near Kalispell.
>
> He was easy to like and made friends wherever he went. He will be missed
> deeply by many.
>
> Judy (his better half) is using rodkempel at yahoo.com to communicate with
> his friends.
>
> Copy of her announcement;
>
> Dear Friends,
>
> Again, it is with great sadness I report.
>
> Yesterday afternoon, Rod developed a new bleed near his brain stem.  It's
> unclear if vaso-spasms caused it.  However, there was much blood and
> stroke.  The damage to his brain stem took his life.  He died early this
> morning.  We were blessed with enough time for Michelle to arrive and be
> with me for his passing.  Michael was unable to get out of remote Helena,
> MT soon enough, but was with us in spirit and by phone.
>
> Michelle returned home to her family this morning, final arrangements were
> made and are being taken care of as I type.  Although we grieve, there
> will be no service at this time.
>
> The family wants to thank all of you for your prayers, consideration, and
> support during this difficult time.
>
> May God bless this sweet man in his new life.
>
> Love,
>    Judy