Four years ago last month, I lost a dear friend, mentor and colleague. He suffered from Lupus and other ailments. He was by far one of the most honorable and gentle people I've ever come across in my young life. His name was Chucky Hansen and I miss him dearly. I was furious when he died because I never got to reassure him of all the positive aspects of his life during the events that plagued him at that moment. I never got to tell him how much he meant to me as a player and as a person. I sincerely wish he could have seen me get married and been around to meet my children. He would've loved them and how wonderful they are and how much they're growing. My oldest plays piano and loves guitar. She's more privy to art but she loves music. My youngest is just like me: she taps, hits and bangs on everything . . . in time! He would've gotten a kick out of that.
Saturday, December 4 was his memorial show at the American Legion in Spotswood, NJ, his hometown. It was to benefit the Lupus Foundation. The turnout was absolutely amazing! Just about everyone came out of the woodwork to see his old students perform. Towards the end I gave all of the organizers presents and plaques to commemorate the event and show how much it meant to everyone. Neil Magenheim fronted the bill for the hall; Joanna Liapes organized the event; Monroe Music Studio (formerly Chucky's studio) lent us the gear to perform. It was a great show. I'm sure he would've loved it.
I'm certain my old friend was smiling that night and was probably shocked about how much people respected him. The hall was on the small side but it was packed I got to bump into several old friends, particularly Paul Christiansen, the man responsible for inspiring me to pick up sticks seriously in the first place. My husband and I were hanging with him all night. It was wonderful to talk shop with him after such a long, long time.
Certainly, not everyone agreed with his perspective on certain topics - he was truly stuck in the 80s - but he would'nt call you out on it. He would simply listen and debate. He never wanted any harm to come to anyone, especially on his watch.
I miss my friend. I'm sure he misses us, too.
