[Dixielandjazz] Franz Jackson Memorial Service

[BOYER DONALD]

I was fortunate to attend the Memorial Service for Franz Jackson on May 24, 2008 at the Apostalic Lighthouse Church in Dowagiac, Michigan.  His children, Michelle and Robert did a wonderful job with the program which featured a slide presentation titled a Short Version of a Long Life followed by the program divided into 4 parts with speakers, video and audio of Franz and live music in each part.
   
  The musicians were not all identified during the program.  Chicago drummer  Bob Cousins played and Judi K was featured as a speaker and vocalist.  Marcus Belgrave (Detroit) was featured on trumpet, joined by Yves Francois.   Local and area musicians made up the balance of the players.  A friend to many of us on the list, drummer Wayne Jones attended, but did not play.
   
  After the Service all were invited to the Woodfire Trattoria Resturant in Dowagiac for food, more music and more memories of Franz.  All and all a touching, appropriate Service for one of the real giants of OKOM.
   
  Don Boyer
  South Bend, IN