| On May 12, 1999, a gracious 'phone call from
Kris' friend and neighbour, Laurie, inviting us to attend the party.
We started out from Toronto at 9:00 a.m. thinking
that we were leaving plenty of time. At 10:00 a.m. we were stuck
in west-bound traffic on the QEW two miles from the next exit. At
12:00 noon we finally made it onto the ramp for that exit.
Needless to say, we did not arrive in time
for the first part of Kris' party, but managed to get there finally
at 1:00 p.m.
When we arrived people were coming out onto
the Church front steps to take a breather in the lovely sunshine while
the musicians set up in the hall for the jam.
The place was wall-to-wall people. People of
all ages. Ministers, family, friends, neighbours, Kris' students, other
musicians.
It had been standing room only. The Church
had been filled to capacity.
We ran into some acquaintances who told us
the service had been absolutely beautiful. Happy, sad, elevating, and most
of all, very musical.
We wandered around the hall and looked at some
of the Kris pictures and flowers and other mementos. There was a lot of
love in that room.
Once the band paraphernalia was set up, musicians
started to gather on the stage. I am ashamed to say that I did not
get everyone one's name, but some of the those playing and with whom I
am familiar included guitar player/singers Dennis Gomo, James Anthony Pecchia
and "Dangerous Doug" Smith.
Some fine playing and singing followed and
was received with jubilation by the crowd. Some of Kris' students
played, shyly showing off their skills. For us a major highlight was when
James Anthony and Kris' sister did "the Landlord" off her CD. It
was just outstanding.
We managed to talk to Kris' husband, Terry
Walsh for a few minutes and exchange hugs.
Bob Cooper (a long time friend of Kris')
came over and made us feel that it was special that we had come.
He let us know that Kris would have been happy about it. It was like Kris
reached out and gave us a hug.
We wish we hadn't been late, Kris, but we're
really glad we finally got there. Thank you so very much for getting Laurie
to call us. |
