MEMORIES | Richard Fallis

RICHARD FALLIS MEMORIES FROM THE DIGNITY MEMORIAL PAGE

Liubo Giurgevich: Richard was a "funkster from way back"! I will miss the Tower grooves we worked on. Rest in Peace Richard!

Edwin Brownell: Aaaaaah dear Richard. I am grateful you are no longer suffering, but I miss you so much. We first worked together in the early 1990s when we played in a Janis Tribute Band ... How you hated that! But we became friends, and stayed friends until the end. We probably performed together at least 4-500 times in Montreal clubs and across Quebec, but I most enjoyed listening to you speak about the music you wanted to share with me. I learned deeply about the blues from what you told me and the records and books you introduced me to ... You taught me innumerable songs from Professor Longhair, Muddy Waters, Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway, James Cotton and so many others. We also spoke of spirituality and spiritual intent. You introduced me to Viktor Frankl and I introduced you to Stephen Mitchell. After I left the club scene you were one of the few musicians who came to my classical concerts, and although because of life and geography we only saw each other once every month or so, we never lost contact or fell out of our deep friendship. I must say I am truly grateful to have spent time almost everyday of your last weeks on earth with you to witness the grace and kindness and love which was always a profound part of your being. You are part of us all now, and I am so thankful to have such a rich share in my own heart. Thank you for your life and music dear friend. I will love you always.

Jerome Katchin: Dear Richard,

We met many years ago when we were in Grade 9 and my family moved into your neigbourhood in the spring of 1966. We shared many interests regarding the military and we both had many models of aircraft from WW II and some from WW I. However I introduced you to my models of warships from WW II and we both built a fleet of model warships ... okay ... I went a bit "overboard" with my collection of model warships.

We also shared some interest in music and we played together in the first band you co-started with another classmate of ours. However I eventually pursued a career in veterinary medicine at the University of Guelph while you continued to follow your love of music. I truly enjoyed spending my summers with you back in Dorval while working at the municipal swimming pools until I graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1975.

We then lived in different worlds but we were always friends ... may God receive you and look after you until we meet again.

Jerome

Ilona Granik: I lost contact with my dear friend, and in the last half hour, playing tower of power and it hit me, i think he must have died.. (he played bass with them) and i looked him up. i am so upset cuz he should never have suffered, he told me yrs ago how it happened. LOVE YOU, RICHARD, DOING IT WITH SOUL

Dave Rizk: Richard was a amazing individual and wise friend. Always sharp, witty and generous with his time. I first met Richard at Bar G Sharp back in 1988. I was an aspiring 18 year old guitarist. He hired me on occasion and taught me the fundamentals of the Blues and the realities of the music business. As the years passed we'd inevitably run into each other on the Main and stop for a coffee and chat about life and music. I am eternally thankful to have been able to call Richard Fallis my friend. Rest in peace brother.

Ruth Cool: We knew the day would come and yet we’re still in shock… I hope you know how very much Gilles & I miss you… All our talks on music, books & movies (Disney of course…!) Especially when we agreed to disagree (those were the funniest arguments)…. are no more; that will leave such a large void in our lives… You were my Bass Guru & my roadie! Oh! the fun & laughs we had and so many jokes we’ve shared! We’re so very grateful for all the times we jammed, the inside jokes on stage (Mr. Magoo) & all the coffees we’ve drank. You touched so many people & for that we are all blessed… You fought bravely for so long, may you finally find peace. No more pain… Our deepest sympathy to family, friends and all of you, who, like us, must continue without him… We’ll think of you often & always.
Till me meet again my friend, somewhere in time…. Love Gilles & Ruth xox

Howard Forman: I'm so terribly sorry to hear of Richard's passing. While it's probably been 25 years since he and I played together I'm deeply saddened by this news. I loved his company, sense of humour and wonderful musicianship whenever we were called on the same gig. A good soul with a great mind and a kind heart.

My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Hank and Ivy Williamson: We are very sad to hear of Richards passing. We have happy memories of time spent with our intelligent, insightful and wise friend, and the many deep conversations had. Condolences to Richards family and friends. Rest in peace my friend.

Phil Peters: Richard. My memories of you are of watching you playing music, the empathy that allowed you to lock in and create a groove that was a unique combination of your personality and experience. The conversation s where we shared thoughts on music and life in general. Every time I play Hoochie Coochie Man it will be exactly the way you showed me that it should be played.

Carole Beaulieu: I am so sorry to hear of Richard's passing. He was a big part of my social life in Dorval in my high-school days and we spent many late afternoons having tea at his house, talking about music and everything. We re-connected in Toronto and Montreal a few times over the years and it was always a pleasure to see him. My condolences to everyone who loved him.

Yvon Babin: Richard, I will always remembering you in my heart, all of that 3 years ,our friendship was simple with a lot of respect. Thanks to you, to have been in my life. To the family and all of this true friends, my sincere condolences. I miss you, my friend.

Joel Sacks: I just found out yesterday about this through the musicians' grapevine. My condolences to his family and friends. We first met in 1975 or so when I was given his spot in the Club Med band in Guadeloupe. I will miss his wit and humour, his resonant voice and the way his eyes would disappear when he smiled and laughed. He introduced me to a whole new group of friends who I still cherish. All we have is time; make the most of it.

Eva Cubas: My dear Richard, you are greatly missed already... every time I am at work, I hope to see the door of the coffeeshop open and see You and Denise walking in. I will miss our conversations during my lunch break, or on my “paperwork” days. You were a smart, talented, wise, and funny man, a hard to find combination. You were a great conversationalist, we could talk about so many subjects, I just regret not knowing you earlier, as I felt bad making you talk some days. You will be greatly missed and remembered, have no doubt about it. My most sincere sympathies to the family and long list of broken-hearted friends you are leaving behind Richard. I will cherish my memories with you like those of my own grandparents. Thank you for being part of my daily life for the last 3 years, you were an awesome person, to me you were family. May you rest now my friend. 🕊

RICHARD FALLIS MEMORIES FROM THE FACEBOOK MEMORIAL PAGE

Edwin Orion Brownell: We remember and celebrate the life of our friend, the great bassist, bluesman, funkster and human being Richard Fallis

Amir Amozig: What a brilliant musician. I deeply regret not having known him. May he rest in peace.

Edwin Orion Brownell: He was amazing both as a musician and as a human being. I met him when we performed with Angel in the early 1990s.

Ilona Hg: omg this is so sad for me, my darling friend. we had so many laughs, when we toured in 'wolf at the door' he was so funny, and often sat reading in the noisy club , i would join him and chat, then go up and play... he was the dearest! we stayed in contact always, when we both still lived in Toronto. rest in beauty my friend.

Angel Forrest: ❤

Russell Edward Williams: Whoa you guys did a great job on Richards' memorial. I wish I could have attended.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you so much!!!

John Stalgitis: This is one of the most spectacular tributes i've ever seen. he would be humbled

Edwin Orion Brownell: Yes he would, but he deserves all these and far more. Richard was not only the best musician I have known, but really one of the best human beings. Love to our dear friend.

John Stalgitis: I met Richard in the early 70' in Dorval and also spent some time with him in Toronto

John Stalgitis: Thanks again Edwin

Edwin Orion Brownell: It is my pleasure and my honour.

David Sanders: So glad Stu got up beautiful

Edwin Orion Brownell: I agree!!!

John McGale: Several years ago, I ran into Bobby Lee Silcott at the Cote des Neiges Plaza and we chatted for a bit. Bobby was telling me that he was going through cancer treatments and because of that nobody was calling him to do gigs anymore and he really wanted to sing. I immediately hired him to join me at my regular Sunday night gig in Longueil "Au Diable". and Richard was hired as the bassist on the gig. It was Bobby Lee's final live performance but he had such a wonderful night with people like Patsy Gallant, Manix and Kenny Dupree all joining in. It was good to see him grinning from ear to ear.

The Diable was a wonderful place to play and I used to always order a plate of Chicken Wings, the hotter the better and eat them on my break. Richard ordered some too and as he was eating them he mentioned that he was having a hard time swallowing, it was the first time he had ever experienced that and didn't know what was going on. A few days later he went to the doctor to find out what was happening as the sensation did not go away. It was then that he was diagnosed with a tumour in his throat.

I loved working with Richard, he had such a unique approach to the bass and his "popping" technique was one for the instruction books! Never seen anyone play like that before. A blues purist all the way, he loved the spaces between notes as much as the notes themselves.

Thanks Richard. Rest well my friend

Robert D. Harris: Nice.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Well put John!!!

Alan Glover: I was available and looking forward to attending. I know it would have been great to hear some stories and share some of mine. I had the mistaken notion that once one indicated one was going, an automatic reminder would ensue and so neglected to add it to my calendar. I very much appreciate the invitation. Thank you. My apologies to especially Stuart and continued condolences to Richard's family and friends.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Sorry we missed each other Alan. Thank you for your kind words.

Stuart Patterson: Sorry to have missed you that day Al. I know you and Richard went way back. Feel free to post any of your stories you feel like sharing. All the Best Al!

John Stalgitis: I think we've all had our special moments with this man over the years and he was such a determining factor in many of our musical goals ..i know he was for me ..thanks Richard ...

Edwin Orion Brownell: Amen!!!!!

Allison Howe: Thanks for inviting me to this special event Stuart Patterson. Thanks for introducing me to Richard at Euro Deli a few years back. I will always be grateful for meeting him. He used to walk by my place on his way to inspecteur epigne and sometimes we’d have a big chat and laughs or we’d meet for coffee talk. He was a such a genuine, kind person and had such a hopeful view of life with his lovely, always smiling eyes. Rest In Peace sweet Richard.

Edwin Orion Brownell: We have never met but it is good to hear your words Allison. Thanks for your presence.

Stuart Patterson: Thanks for so much sharing your thoughts and thank you for joining us at the memorial Allison. I have fond memories of great conversations with Richard and you when we would run into each other at the Euro Deli .

Stuart Patterson: Thanks to all who came out to remember our dear friend Richard and celebrate his life. To the many who who were unable to join us ,but shared your thoughts in messages and emails … you were definitely there with us in spirit! Many thanks to Edwin Orion Brownell, Eva Q-be, Yvon Babin, Mike Curtis, Joey Miskin, Maggie Blanchard and Richard's family for their great efforts in making this evening possible.

Also a very special thanks to Richard's roommate and friend of many years David Given who not only helped support Richard throughout his illness but also contributed greatly in the planning and organization of this evening. It was so nice to witness the positive impact Richard had on so many of our lives and to realize how much his spirit lives on in our shared memories of him.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for the kind words and for your own deep contributions, behind the scenes, on stage, and as Richard's closest friend, dear Stuart.

Greg Amirault: Sorry I couldn't be there.

Hugh Fisher: Sorry I couldn't make it Stuart I was sick. My condolences.

Stuart Patterson: Thanks for your note Hugh. hope you are feeling better

Hugh Fisher: Thanks Stuart, I am on the mend, sorry for your loss.

Eric LeMoyne: Nicely said.

Eric LeMoyne: Thanks to Edwin Orion Brownell and Stuart Patterson for organizing this.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for sharing with us dear Eric!!!

Eric LeMoyne: Stuart Patterson speaking about his friend. Heartfelt and thoughtful. Thanks Stuart.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Best friends!!!

Mark Goodwin: Sorry I missed this part.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Well now that Stuart has made friend with a microphone you may have another opportunity the next time you play together.

Thom Gossage: Beautiful!

Mark Goodwin: Thanks to Edwin Orion Brownell and Stuart Patterson for organizing and hosting such a moving tribute to Richard. Well done.

Edwin Orion Brownell: It was great to see you there dear Mark. We all did it together and I know Richard would have been very happy.

Stuart Patterson: Thanks so much for being there Mark ...it meant a lot

Mark Goodwin: Gosh, Stu....no need to thank me. It was an honor. I only wish I would've known you were going to speak about RF. I would have hung in a little longer. :)

Roger Lemoyne: I am sorry I could not make it to the memorial. Thank you friends who organized this well deserved tribute. Richard was a deep, thoughtful, soulful person and a great, dedicated musician. I miss the times at Euro Deli where we would often meet and throw ideas around. His suffering is over, now he rests, peacefully. Thank you Richard, for all that you gave us.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for your warm comments Roger.

Alanna Gisele Lewis: We spent so many times meeting up at Euro Deli till it closed several years ago. And then Richard & I met at several other cafes. There was 1 in particular, just below Ontario street that he would walk to with his cane & some force of energy that was vast as I would be tired. And even when he could no longer have his teaspoons of espresso, his last indulgence he was afforded,; he would still ago there & listen to music & read. He just kept going till he couldn't any longer. My own health & other issues kept me away near the end. And that was hard as Richard had been part of the landscape that peppered my life for well over 20 something years.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for sharing those memories my friend ... I hope your health will just get better!!!

Alanna Gisele Lewis: You're welcome Edwin & thank you for the well wishes re my health :).

Michael O'Reilly: I’m living abroad so can’t make it. Richard was a great man and a great bass player. Did a lot of gigs together, he loved the blues, bass and coffee. He used to call it the nectar of the Gods. I’ll miss him. Safe travels sir.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for your kind words Michael.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Hi everyone. Richard is smiling. He is in our hearts and we are filled with love. Thank you for coming together tonight to remember a wonderful human being. Special thanks to Stuart, Yvon and Eva, the staff of Petit Campus and Lorraine and the rest of Richard's family for making everything possible!!! Pictures to follow ... Love to you all.

Gary Lindner: Sorry I cld not be there

Howard Forman: Would love to see you Gary.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Gary Lindner We missed you buddy… Hope you’re OK!!!

Ron Stewart: I'm so sorry I couldn't make it to the memorial last night...many thanks to you Edwin & Stuart for all of your efforts in making this special event for Richard's memorial.

Annie Bélanger: Unfortunately i could not make it. But i was there in thoughts for the great Richard Fallis. He is now jamming with the best. My sympathies to all.

Kathy Wolf: Thanks Edwin! Stuart! Nechama! Eva! and everyone for such a beautiful memorial for Richard. He will be dearly missed.

Alanna Gisele Lewis: Dan, myself (Alanna Gisele Lewis) Nathalie, Liz & Richard Fallis. I was writing an article on the Jazz Fest and was the Arts & Culture Editor for a local bilingual paper & writer for all the related sections of that paper. Richard myself & Liz were preparing to go to a Jazz venue, Once there we all agreed wasn't close to Jazz & was an epic fail even for Alternative music!!! Richard, myself & Liz left before the 2nd part of the show. Richard always had stellar taste in music and he & I always engaged in these long running diatribes over the years about music, especially The Blues. Whereby he would take down Led Zeppelin & I would tease him that he didn't like any Blues/Blues/Rock after the 1940's. R.I.P. my Trooper of a friend; throughout your long ordeal you still had the courage of conviction, that I so admired in you, to make yours still a life not a a mere existence.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Hi Alanna ... I never knew you knew Richard. I would have invited you. Thanks for the wonderful picture and wishing you well!!!

Dave Rizk: Unfortunately I'm teaching. Can't make it so I'll just share this photo of Richard and I. Much love

Jim Zeller: In studio. Sorry to not be there. He was an Ace of Bass!!

Rich Hammond: Richard worked with our band (JW Fish) as we traipsed the Holiday Inn circuit back in the 70s. He and I were roommates. Couldn't have asked for a better workmate and friend. No matter where we played, from Halifax to Sarnia, when the night was over, Richard packed up his book and went looking for an all-night coffee place where he sat, read, smoked and enjoyed. He named his red Gibson EB-3 bass "Gandalf." Lovely guy.

Thom Gossage: I remember subbing in on a gig with Richard and Bat Taylor. It was quite an experience. They seemed to have played together for a long time and as things do it that scenario they were having huge fights on stage (verbal).I remember clearly that Richard was slapping on his bass and proceeded in bleeding quite a bit. I cautiously suggested that perhaps he might think about adjusting his technique , his steadfast defence of his own way made me think that perhaps Richard had quite a stubborn streak.

Mostly my connection with Richard was at euro deli, we always had great conversations and I definitely learned that Richard had strong opinions but not in a negative or disparaging of others manner. During one of these discussions we starting talking about the blues, he invited me to his apartment to check out some drummers he loved. I was really impressed with his record collection and knowledge of blues music.

I was also very impressed by the elegance he showed during his long illness. I know he must have been suffering with pain when I occasionally ran into him but he was always classy and inspiring. I'm sorry I can't be there tonight to hear other stories and celebrate his life.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you for sharing that. You will be there in spirit.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Rich Hammond Thank you for sharing that Rich.

Mike Curtis: I only met Richard one time before he got sick, and I played only one song with him, and had no idea of his depth of musical knowledge or opinions. What he didn't know before we started playing was that I used 9th chords almost exclusively on the 4s and 5s in blues tunes. He was not amused... in later years I felt privileged to be his friend. I look forward to seeing him in heaven, but hopefully not for a good while.

Alanna Gisele Lewis: Richard was strongly opinionated. And that was something I really respected about him even when we had divergent points of view. We could always find a place to meet in between though. I think that's because we were both avid readers from a very young age. I remember years ago sitting at the Euro Deli and telling Richard that other than some of my published fictions in literary magazines & my socio-political commentaries in other avenues that I felt I would never make it as a writer. Richard told me about a fantasy fiction writer that I'd hear of, James Branch Cabell. And how it took him, I think it was his 52nd book to finally be published & then publishers went back & published all of his writings. It gave me hope that sometimes good things do happen to good disciplined people - maybe not in the immediate or right thereafter but eventually. Richard gave me hope to keep pursuing my passion; my writing at all cost. I thank him for that till today & always 🌹⭐️.✨

Edwin Orion Brownell: That is a beautiful memory ... Thanks for sharing!!!

Alanna Gisele Lewis: Thank you Edwin, this non compatible Pc keyboard with my Mac Book Pro & my right arm are experiencing difficulties so excuse my errors - I corrected them. Every time I feel like packing it in today I actually do remember very well that talk that Richard & I had better days for both of us. I still have all this great advice that he imparted to me as a friend. Along with how happy he was to have his old record & albums out in CD/DVD format for his Bose system. We listened to some Aretha & Chaka Khan & much more on it & talked about their music. He was sick but you wouldn't have known it the way he lit up when he spoke about the surround sound & we listened to how good the legends sounded on his system ...I guess I knew it was inevitable.... However I took it for granted nonetheless that Richard would always be there. I guess I really thought he would in a way. However time is not infinite for anyone & none of us are beyond mortality. And I should have internalized that more. Only my own family losses & my personal health issues coincided with prior to Richard's passing & it is what it is. And though I couldn't change that it was a strange fate for me to end things on what feels like an incomplete note after such a long friendship :(.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Alanna Gisele Lewis Nothing is complete and there is no such thing as dying. As we speak Richard is alive in our words and in our thoughts and both you and I will pass him to everyone we meet and they will do the same. We are all beyond mortality ... Fly on little wing!!!

Alanna Gisele Lewis: What beautifully profound words Edwin. Thank you for them & the peace that they have given me. You are so right

Ron Stewart: I wanted to thank you for the invitation Edwin...I hope to be back in town early enough to attend... Richard was a terrific bass player and musician, and more importantly a very special person...we will all miss him and his wonderful presence. I remember and treasure those special times when we played together. His spirit is all around us.

Edwin Orion Brownell: We hope to see you this evening dear Ron!!

Rob MacDonald: As you know, Edwin, I'm out of the country at the moment which is the only reason I can't be there tonight. Richard was a great musician and I learned a lot from him in the short period we played together. He will be missed. Have fun tonight and watch for those extraneous 9th chords, Richard wouldn't approve! R.I.P. Richard Fallis.

Edwin Orion Brownell: I love you Rob and Richard is smiling!!! Have a great trip and we will Cosmos when you return!!!

Michael O'Reilly: No 9 chords Mike! RIP Richard

Gordon Byrd: Sad to hear the news of Richard's passing. I cannot attend, unfortunately. Honoured to be in the league of young West Island bass players including Richard, Stuart Patterson, Steve Lang, Jim Bale, Johnny Stugg, Peter Dowse to name a few.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for your kind words.

Joel Zifkin: A marvellous musician but above all, a very nice person. He is missed in many ways by many …

Edwin Orion Brownell: Amen.

Steve Rowe: Maybe we'll see you tomorrow

Robert M David: Thinking of Richard who played a memorable part in my musical journey.It was always a joyful sound we made the times we played together in bands over the years.Always fun and always taking it to a higher level.His gift was immeasurable.His groove deep and solid...and he was the only bass player in Montreal who really understood how to play New Orleans funk..that was a treat. Travel in the light Richard..

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you Robert. So many people are smiling at your words. So is Richard.

Corey Diabo: Richard was an amazing bass player, musician, and person. A true student and scholar of the blues. I enjoyed playing many gigs with him and took it all in. I am grateful for all those times and he shall be missed. Thank you Richard

Edwin Orion Brownell: And thank you for your kind words Corey.

Pat Loiselle: Here’s a couple of shots I found of our friend Richard at Café Campus playing after Jack de Keyser and the all -Stars. Jack sat in with us at Petit Campus afterwards ... was a great night! Loved playing with Richard while i was in the band and I especially enjoyed backing him on Muddy’s Just to be with you’ . When he counted a slow Blues you knew it was gonna be a deep pocket! Learned lots with you Richard ... so grateful ... Many great memories from our trip in Dominican Republic too and just hanging out ... Miss you Brother RIP

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks for sharing Pat!!! Hope to see you at the Memorial

Pat Loiselle: absolutely! ill be there

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks so much dear Pat. I will treasure the picture forever. Take care and stay in touch please!!!

Pat Loiselle: Thank you so much Edwin for putting this together for our friend Richard . Wish i woulda gotten there earlier .... Was great to see old friends and talk about old times ... Peace Brother and let's all stay healthy ! Love the CD!

Kenny Dupree: Thanks for the invitation Edwin, but unfortunately I won’t be able to make it, but he will certainly be in my thoughts! His spirit lives on!!

Erika Kober: Thank you for the invitation. I am sorry but I cannot make it out. My condolences to the Family.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you Erika. Wishing you only good things and thanking you for your kind words.

Carolyn Fe: Thank you for the invitation. I will be there in spirit as I am working on the same night. My sincere condolences to family and friends.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks Carolyn… Quite a few musicians are working that night so I’m glad there is work out there… Richard would appreciate that. Take care and thank you for your kind words.

Billy Bob: Sorry but I can't make it as I will be working a couple of days in Europe then. Playing seemed to come to him as a second nature.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Take care and thanks for letting us know!!!

David Paul Neil: Unfortunately I can't make it. I will be playing in Gatineau that evening. I must say, Richard was a great guy with a warm heart. He taught me much about music, and the Blues conversation. He will always be in my thoughts.

Edwin Orion Brownell: You will be with us in spirit dear Dave!!!

Phil Peters: I will be there. I think of Richard often.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thanks Phil. It will be good to see you.

Jeff Dwyer: I'm down in Costa Rica until the end of March. But I'll be there in spirit to honour Richard, who was the first friend I had on this earth. We were babies and toddlers together and reconnected in our teens.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you Jeff ... You will be with us in spirit.

Alain C. LaRivière: Sweet guy, came to a couple of the “Jerry birthday parties” I threw. I’ll try and find some of the pics…

Edwin Orion Brownell: We would love that Alain!!!

Alison Edgar: Can't be there but I would if I could. Very sad news

Edwin Orion Brownell: We understand. Take care and please accept our warmest condolences.

Yvon Babin: My dear friend I would be honoured to celebrate your life with all the people who love you!

Edwin Orion Brownell: It will be wonderful to see you there my friend.

Leslie Snooksta Alston: Last time i saw Richard was such a Blessing!!

Leslie Snooksta Alston: Always Love this Guy who had the Greatest Heart and Touched everyones soul with his Bass playing!..RIP Richard

Kathy Wolf: Oh Snooky... this photo breaks my heart. Glad you went to visit. You're so kind ! xo

Alain Bellaîche: I was not aware he had passed away, very sad news indeed, really loved the guy, very sweet and so talented, always enjoyed playing with him and hanging out. I will not be in town on the 27th unfortunately but will be there in thought and heart. May he rest in peace.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you for your kind words. You will be with us in spirit.

Carole Beaulieu: Edwin Orion Brownell, would it be possible to share this link with The Shire Coffee House Gang?

Edwin Orion Brownell: That would be more than welcome. Thank you for your kind suggestion.

Alan Glover: Richard would go to a restaurant on the Dorval Circle ( not far from his folk's place ) every September 22 ( Bilbo and Frodo's birthday ) and read Tolkien. He was in Smokin' Road for a bit. SG bass, if memory serves. I may have some photos.

Edwin Orion Brownell: Thank you for sharing that lovely memory. We would all love to see some pictures please!!!

Alan Glover: Beaconsfield High School. October 27th 1973. Playing with Smokin' Road

Russel Edward Williams: Sweet guy, great bass player RIP.

Greg Amirault: Sad news, had many fun gigs with Richard.

Ilona Hg: i adored my friend and unfortunately i live too far away to attend. I still use some of the jokes he used to tell me back in the late 70's. i wish i had not lost his phone no. after i made one call , the best chat ever

Michael Jerome Browne: Very sorry to hear this news.

Kim Richardson: Oh no ... when did he pass away?

Edwin Orion Brownell: December 3rd. Our condolences to you.

Kim Richardson: Such a nice guy. I will try to make it to the memorial.

Gary Lindner: Played many moments with richard and fondly remember his quiet and humble character..... I will be there

Ilona Hg: Oh thats great Gary

Edwin Orion Brownell: Hi everyone: If you know anyone who loved Richard, please invite them to this celebration of his life. Feel free to post photos and memories too. Thank you so much.

Kathy Wolf: We'll be there Edwin. What a huge loss to our music community. Richard was so very talented, funny, and a wonderful man.

Johnny Slim: i'll be there fore sure Edwin, Richard was a good friend

Cliff Stevens: I did a lot of gigs with Richard and Bobby - this is from Tremblant in 2006 I think - I'll be there Mar 27... R.I.P. Richard Fallis

Kathy Wolf: Feels like yesterday Cliff!

Edwin Orion Brownell: A beautiful shot my friend!!!!

Alan Glover: Richard (I told him he needed to start a revue with an all female band and call it Big Dick Fallis and the Vaginettes. I can't remember if he found that amusing or not) was an old soul. I was a big fan of The Lord of the Rings in the seventies so Richard and I had that among other things to discuss. He was also thoughtful and caring and was not afraid to express his feelings nor was he afraid to share someone else’s. We had had a confrontation with a not very nice person (gotta be early seventies...wish I had kept a diary) and although Richard took it in his stride, I was very upset by it. I recall driving back to the West Island and having to pull over to the side of the road in tears with my frustration over the incident. Richard put his arms around me and told me that he loved me and recommended I not take what the individual had said or alluded to seriously.

I think that I have always been a person that is not afraid to share someone's feelings and to try to make them feel better if possible. Richard displayed that characteristic in spades that day and I was very grateful. It reinforced the notion that my predilection for same was not a bad thing and to offer to share someone's troubles with them can be wonderfully helpful. I had not been in touch with Richard for many years and was unaware he was ill. It seems as if his friends helped him greatly through his travails and we can all be grateful for that.

RIP, Richard.

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