In 1967 my dad helped found a Dixieland jazz band, with which he performed for over 20 years until he moved out of the area. The band played at my wedding, is still together and still includes some of the original members, including the trombone player who was one of the co-founders (and also one of my music teachers in middle school).
A couple of months ago my dad received an email from this trombone player. It was a save-the-date message—for his upcoming wake.
It turns out that he has a terminal illness and he’s decided that you know what? He’d like to attend his own funeral, seeing as how he is the guest of honor. He says he knows that his wife won’t throw him a traditional jazz funeral, so he’s throwing it for himself before he goes. He’s since sent out formal, printed invitations to 100 people and booked a hall.
More power to him, I say. My dad will be there, and he’ll bring his banjo.
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Wow, what an interesting idea. Good for him – best to make sure he gets the funeral he wants, right? And he gets to see everyone before he dies.
My mom has given me strict orders as to how she wants her funeral run, and threatens to haunt me if I don’t carry out her plans.
So weird for me that you posted this today. I am at my mom’s house, getting ready to go to my stepdad’s mother’s memorial service. My stepdad’s father was Shorty Rogers, a well known trumpet player in the West Coast Jazz scene. His wife won’t have the same level of jazz at her service that he did, but still I’m on my way to a Jazz-themed service.
that is so sad. and so beautiful. that is going to be some event.
Wow. Great idea, but not sure I could do it myself. Did you see the alzhymers documentary about the guy who wrote everyone a letter before he lost his mind? I think that would be more my speed.
That is awesome. And it’s going to be fun.
Wow! You know how they always say, “It’s a celebration of life” and not “just” a memorial service? This, this will indeed be a celebration of his life.
Nice idea. I guess if you’re still spry enough to enjoy it.
Joe leaves for Las Vegas on June 3rd with a good friend of his from work.
Bob has stage 3 pancreatic cancer and isn’t expected to be around much longer. Bob loves to gamble, so what the hell?
It’s part of his “Bucket-List”.
I love it – a wonderful way to enjoy life and friends / family and leave everyone with pleasant memories.
Considering how my family throws “going away parties” to honor the deceased (and plans them for when the weather will be good and people can travel), I’m sure you’re not surprised that I love this idea.
I hope your dad and his band have a fantastic time together!
Hmmm, oddly sad and amusing, too. I guess if you know you’re going to go, might as well do it up right.
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