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Topic: Rick Alexander 1947-2009 |
Tommy Young
From: Ethelsville Alabama
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Posted 24 May 2009 6:40 pm
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I like many others here on the forum this was a SHOCK to say the least,I met him a few years ago in ST.LOUIS, he was extremely friendly to all and from that day on he always made it a must do to find and come by for a chat and to check out the newest Modifications I had done,,, he was such a nice guy and did so much for steel guitar and this forum,, He will be missed greatly by all that knew him ;;;My condolences to his family and many friends. _________________ TOMMY YOUNG
MAX-TONE MODIFICATIONS
BMI dealer,Classic VIBE 100 amp... SIT strings.. |
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Mac McKenzie
From: Auckland, New Zealand * R.I.P.
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Posted 24 May 2009 8:55 pm Rick Alexander
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Even from this far away, Rick's considerable and valued contribution to the Forum has been greatly appreciated. From time to time, so many benefit from people with his nature. |
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Nick Reed
From: Russellville, KY USA
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Posted 24 May 2009 9:22 pm
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I always wanted to go see one of Rick's Tiki-Bar Shows while in Florida, but never got around to doing it. NOW I'M SORRY! We met Rick in St. Louis a few years ago. In fact, I bought his video course for Linda to use for learning non-pedal. I took this picture with Rick when Linda met him in the convention hall. He was such a nice guy with a great attitude and he will be deeply missed.
Nick
Last edited by Nick Reed on 28 May 2009 7:20 am; edited 1 time in total |
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pdl20
From: Benton, Ar . USA,
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Posted 24 May 2009 9:27 pm Rick Alexander
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Our condolences to Rick and his family from the members of the Central Arkansas Steelguitar Assoc. _________________ Mullen G 2 D 10 8 & 6 , Emmons D 10 8& 6 Evans Amps , Revelation,MPX1,Steward PA 1000 rack, Steelers Choice Cross country Seat ,Hilton Pedal, Curt Mangan strings . When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane. |
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Rich Hlaves
From: Wildomar, California, USA
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Posted 24 May 2009 10:01 pm
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I had my 2nd anual Memorial Day Jam today. I played sleepwalk and dedicated it to Rick. I choked up during the dedication and my friends who attended stood up and gave a standing ovation during my dedication. Rick, I know you are looking down on us and that you where here with us today. God bless you and your family. You are deeply missed.
Sincerely
Rich |
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b0b
From: Cloverdale, CA, USA
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Posted 24 May 2009 10:08 pm
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From Karen, via email:
Quote: |
Rick will be missed by many people.I met Rick on MySpace.com and we became friends throughout time.
We mailed each other all the time and I can hardly believe that that is now gone.I will miss him very much.
My condolences to his family and friends.
Rest in peace Rick
Karen Kaylee |
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Billy Gilbert
From: Texas, USA
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Posted 25 May 2009 5:24 am Rick
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I met Rick at the 2008 Dallas Jamboree and chatted with him a good bit at Herb Remington's table. Then I watched him in Dallas in 09 act as MC, guitarist, bassist, non-pedal steel player, sound man, and camera man when Jeff was on a little break. Even though he was concentrating on putting on a good show, he still spared a few moments to chat. His passing is a great loss, not only to his family but the non-pedal community as well. He was our Champion. Billy |
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K.J. Tucker
From: Texas
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Posted 25 May 2009 8:13 am The tears just won't stop .
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Alan Brookes wrote: |
Scott Thomas wrote: |
I find myself repeatedly coming back to these posts as though somehow it will turn out not to be true.... |
I thought I was the only one doing that. Every post I look at reminds me of him. When I go to check my personal messages the last five out of eight were from Rick. He's going to leave a big void in the Forum and in the lives of many people. It reminds us all of how frail and precious life is. |
Allen Your not the only one . I miss my friend too . _________________ In Memory of My Friend http://rickalexander.com/BigSteel/
If you can read this Thank a Teacher , If it is in English Thank a Soldier !
Luck is preparation meets opportunity............ My Grandmother |
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William Steward
From: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
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Posted 25 May 2009 8:32 am
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I am stunned to hear this news which George Piburn just brought to my attention. It is particulary wonderful and timely to have so much video documentation of the 2009 Dallas TSGA Non-pedal Room sessions with Rick playing and singing. If you haven't seen them, you can find lots of his videos on Youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XafwCWv0-g4 Maybe a valuable lesson to us all to capture some of these beautiful and fleeting moments for posterity! |
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Alan Brookes
From: Brummy living in Southern California
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Posted 25 May 2009 9:37 am
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Someone might want to nominate Rick for the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame. He's certainly served the Steel Guitar community, which is one of the requirements for membership. I can't do it, as I've already nominated someone. |
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Jeff Strouse
From: Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Posted 25 May 2009 10:12 am
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Everyone, the memorial service (originally set for June 14) has been cancelled. I just received a call from his wife, and she's very sorry if anyone has already made plans. But she has a couple of more things to consider. It's been very difficult for her and the family. Cards can continue to be sent to the P.O. Box. In lieu of flowers, she asks that donations be made to the Steel Guitar Forum. Rick loved the forum and for now the family would like donations to go to it. Thanks, and I apologize for any confusion with the previously posted plans... |
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J Fletcher
From: London,Ont,Canada
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Posted 25 May 2009 11:15 am
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Rick was a bit of a legend in London, he played in one of the best bands around back in the mid 60's. The Fortune Tellers. Opened for the Stones here, back in '65. We emailed several times back and forth about old friends and old guitars. Lots and lots of people remember him from the old days. I'm saddened and shocked by this news. Rest in peace...Jerry |
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Duane Brown
From: Reno,Nevada USA
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Posted 25 May 2009 11:16 am Rick Alexander
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I've been away for a few days and just saw this post. This is so sad. I met Rick at his table in Dallas '08 and had a nice visit with him. He was a genuinely nice guy and was all about promoting the non-pedal steel. We talked briefly this last Dallas show and he was so healthy and full of energy that I would have never expected this. My loss is not to have spent more time with Rick. I pray that God will carry Rick's family through this terrible time.
Duane |
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Roy Rosetta
From: Nederland, Texas.. On the Texas Gulf Coast
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Posted 25 May 2009 11:38 am
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This is quite a shock. Mine and Barbara's condolences go out to Rick's family.
...Roy and Barbara _________________ Music is a "gift" with many wrappings....
....Roy |
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Mark Mansueto
From: Michigan, USA
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Bill McRoberts
From: Janesville, Wisconsin USA
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Posted 25 May 2009 1:48 pm
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My condolences to the Alexander family. Rick was a true friend and added so much to the Steel guitar community. He will be missed. _________________ www.westernstarlanders.com |
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Bent Romnes
From: London,Ontario, Canada
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Posted 25 May 2009 2:21 pm
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I've been away since thursday last week and just got to skim the forum. This came as a shock.
Although I never knew Rick or even spoke with him, it was easy to detect the high level of respect he enjoyed here on the forum and among other steel players.
Also, the London ON connection, mentioned by Jerry Fletcher, made me feel some sort of a kinship with this great steel man that I never knew personally.
Rick was born the same year as me. That is a little scary to read.
Rest in Peace, Rick.
Bent _________________ BenRom Pedal Steel Guitars
https://www.facebook.com/groups/212050572323614/ |
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Joe McHam
From: Houston, TX * R.I.P.
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Posted 25 May 2009 3:27 pm Tribute site
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Although I never got to meet Rick, I feel I know him through this forum, and his music on youtube.... Rick has been taken his place with other Heros of the steel guitar. http://www.joemcham.net/Memories/Rick%20Alexander/index.html
It is hopeful that the poem below will provide some comfort to each of you. Our deepest sympathy to Ricks family & friends.
To Those I Love and Those Who Love Me
(Author Unknown)
When I am gone, release me, let me go,
I have so many things to see and do,
You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears.
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave you my love, You can only guess,
How much you gave to me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now it is time I travel alone.
So greive a while for if grieve you must,
then let your grief be, comforted by trust.
It's only for awhile that we must part,
so bless the memories within your heart.
I won't be far away, for life goes on.
So if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near.
And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear,
All of my love around you, soft and clear.
And then, when you must come this way alone,
I'll greet you with a smile, and say,.......
"Welcome Home" _________________ Houston, TX
Excel Superb S-12 8&5
Fender Princeton Amp.
Peavey Vegas Amp.
Casio PG-380 midi guitar
Ham Radio WA5OKT
Private Pilot SEL |
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Chris LeDrew
From: Canada
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Posted 25 May 2009 5:25 pm
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This is just so sad. Rick touched so many of us. I can't fathom Dallas or St. Louis without him, really. What a presence, and gone so fast. Sad days in the steel world for sure. |
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Herb Steiner
From: Spicewood TX 78669
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Posted 25 May 2009 5:41 pm
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Rick and I were the same age. This is additionally discomforting.
Today, the long-time treasurer of my Masonic Lodge, Larry Mathews, the man who helped me with my esoteric work, passed away in South Austin Hospital, like Rick, after circulatory surgery. This means that in the past 3 weeks, 6... SIX!!... close friends of mine have gone on.
Guys, I'm not trying to distract or discount my dear friend Rick's passing, but these turns of events are really making me think some very serious thoughts.
I believe I'm right with the Lord. God knows I'm sure trying to be, and I hope we all are spiritually getting our acts together. |
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Bill Hatcher
From: Atlanta Ga. USA
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Posted 25 May 2009 6:24 pm
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Herb Steiner wrote: |
I believe I'm right with the Lord. God knows I'm sure trying to be, and I hope we all are spiritually getting our acts together. |
Wise words. |
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Alan Brookes
From: Brummy living in Southern California
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Posted 25 May 2009 6:47 pm
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There are a good many of us about the same age as Rick. The maxim is, not to think that tomorrow is your last day, but to live as though it were, because some day it will be. |
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Randy Gilliam
From: San Antonio, Texas, USA
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Posted 25 May 2009 7:33 pm Prayers
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Rick Will be missed By Many! Prayers For The Family and friends Left Behind,God Bless all our Forum Brothers and Sisters!Randy Gilliam. |
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Dean Gray
From: New South Wales, Australia
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Posted 26 May 2009 12:13 am
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I am so sad to hear this news. I have been away from the forum for just a few days and this was the last thing I expected to find on my return.
Rick would contact me through the forum and myspace, and was incredibly helpful and supportive of me when I contacted him about learning non pedal steel guitar. His material really helped me get started on the A6 tuning, which remains my favourite to this day.
I still can't believe he has gone.
Rest in peace my friend, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Dean. _________________ If it’s on the ground it can’t fall down. |
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Fred Kinbom
From: Berlin, Germany, via Stockholm, Sweden.
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