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Tribute to
Randy Chisholm
Tribute from AIC
show in 2020
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This great singer and great man, member of the 1995
International Champion quartet Marquis,
passed away tragically at 7:41pm August 3, 1997 from a sudden staph
infection.
There was an outpouring of email messages with memories
of this fine man on the Harmonet.
Below are some of these posts, along with the posts during his brief
time in the hospital.
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##########################################################################
Date: Mon, 28 Jul 1997 22:36:19 -0400 (EDT)
From: Sagez@aol.com
Subject: Fwd: Randy Chisholm - ILL HEALTH
Hi folks....
Sorry to have to foward this bad news about Randy Chisholm, the fabulous lead
of MARQUIS, 1995 SPEBSQSA Quartet Champions.
Please keep him in your toughts and prayers!!!!
George Davidson
sagez@aol.com
---------------------
Forwarded message:
From: Gilman@scripps.com (Gilman, Paul)
Date: 97-07-28 14:33:34 EDT
I have some bad news concerning Randy. He is seriously ill in a Dayton
Hospital since last Thursday diagnosed as having a staph infection. The
infection got into his blood stream which has a major effect on his
internal organs. His kidneys are not functioning and he may be put on
dialysis today. As of last night his doctors were giving him just a
50/50 chance of pulling through but I just talked to his daughter Erin
and there has been a slight improvement in some vital signs today. They
have him on a respirator and completely asleep for the last few days.
If one of you could forward this on to our AIC brothers it would be
appreciated. We can use as many thoughts and prayers for Randy and his
family at this time.
Dale and I are headed to Dayton to see him this afternoon and I will try
to post an update on the Harmonette and to you this evening.
Paul Gilman
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 29 Jul 1997 01:02:40 -0400 (EDT)
From: Marquisgil@aol.com
Subject: Randy Chisholm seriously ill
Randy Chisholm, lead of the 1995 International Champions Marquis, is
seriously ill in a Dayton Hospital. After having some up and down fevers
last week and feeling very lousy, he was admitted to Sycamore Hospital
Thursday after having a fever of 104 degrees. The illness has been diagnosed
as a staph infection... the source of the infection unknown. It got in his
blood stream and caused serious internal problems.
The doctors began sedating Randy Friday night and he has been asleep since,
although they stopped the sedation sometime today. Saturday his fever
reached 106 degrees, his lungs filled with fluid, and kidneys quit
functioning.
With the doctors saying he had a 50/50 chance of just surviving this thing on
Sunday, today has offered some hope. They were able to get him down to 50%
oxygen and his blood is accepting the oxygen well (97% tonight). His lungs
have improved, but the kidneys not yet functioning and dialysis was to begin
tonight or tomorrow. His fever has held around 100 degrees which is a
positive right now as it's under control and shows his body is fighting the
infection.
With many of you seeing him singing his heart out just three weeks ago at the
convention in Indy and having been with him at quartet rehearsal just two
weeks ago before heading for a vacation, this is quite a shock. No flowers
should be sent now while he is in Intensive Care. If anyone would like to
e-mail a message to Randy and his family I will deliver them. Please send to
my home address marquisgil@aol.com and work address gilman@scripps.com to
ensure I receive them in a timely manner. Cards can be sent to Randy's home
at:
1320 Vista Ridge
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I know lots of Randy's friends are at Harmony College this week. If someone
out there see's this and can send me your e-mail address I will keep you
posted of his progress.
Please keep Randy and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Paul Gilman -baritone Marquis
marquisgil@aol.com
gilman@scripps.com
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 30 Jul 1997 00:20:15 -0400 (EDT)
From: Marquisgil@aol.com
Subject: Randy Chisholm Status
The latest as of Tuesday evening... Randy's condition has remained stable
with some improvement in a few areas. Heart rate, blood pressure, fever have
remained stable since Sunday. They have reduced his oxygen intake from
Sunday's 100% and yesterday's 50% to 40% today and it is saturating the blood
at
a good 97% level. These things indicate that he is fighting the infection.
Dialysis was done on his kidneys this afternoon and apparently went well.
Randy remains asleep to fight this thing and Jan said even if he did wake up
at this point they would probably sedate him again... he needs all his
strength. But he did move his arm a few times today, a sign of hope.
Dale and I were able to visit with him last night and tonight (Jay is out of
town on
business), delivered the cool poster from our June Carnegie Hall appearance
we just received and threatened to sing bari/tenor duets to him if he didn't
start getting better. We read him the 60+ wonderful messages that have been
sent...
he knows you are all fighting with him.
Jan and his daughters Erin and Kinsey are doing as well as can be expected.
They greatly appreciate all your prayers and support for Randy. His parents,
brother Wayne, and great friend Peter have arrived from Ontario.
As Walter Latzko and a few others have written to Randy, "there are still are
a lot of songs out there you haven't sung yet and we want to hear'em from
you".
Will give him a hug for all of you,
Paul Gilman
gilman@scripps.com
marquisgil@aol.com
p.s. Please send any messages to my work e-mail gilman@scripps.com as I
will usually head to the hospital in Dayton from work.
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 30 Jul 1997 13:36:49 -0700
From: Connie Noble
Subject: Randy Chisholm's health
I have not received any Harmonet Mail, is anyone else rec'g mail? Anxious
to know the health of Randy.
Connie Noble
##########################################################################
From: "Coates, Jim"
Subject: Randy Chisholm as of Friday a.m.
Date: Fri, 1 Aug 1997 13:28:48 -0400
'Netters - forwarding this at Paul's request. A little bit of encourging
news, anyway. Keep the e-mails coming - I've been there when they're
reading them and it really helps the family's spirits to know that there
are so many of us out here pulling for them. They've been through this
torture for over a week now, and the end is nowhere in sight. Paul's
e-mail address is below.
If it's something you do, please keep praying for him.
Jim Coates
jim.coates@daytonoh.ncr.com
>----------
>From: Gilman, Paul[SMTP:Gilman@scripps.com]
>Sent: Friday, August 01, 1997 1:02 PM
>
>Sorry I missed updating ya'll yesterday but didn't get home until late
>from Dayton. The latest...
>
>Randy continues to be stable but also remains in a coma. While 'stable'
>was pretty great earlier this week we were really hoping to see lots of
>progress the last few days. There has been some. The physical
>movements he was showing Wednesday were much less yesterday although his
>color looks better and puffiness has gone down.
>
>Something that the docs said was real important to happen did yesterday,
>twice. Don't want to be to graphic, but let's just say Jan scared the
>crap out of him. It was a big enough event that the nurses
>celebrating... and I don't think it was because they had to clean it up.
> This is important to get the ammonia and poisons out of his system.
>
>The family is hanging in there, constantly giving Randy lots of
>encouragement and making sure he knows we are all with him. Jan has
>brought his gold medal to remind of the hard work and success he has
>accomplished in the past and we've been playing Marquis tapes. He
>should have all his words and notes pretty well memorized after this.
>
>Your e-mails and cards are wonderful. When I show up every evening with
>a new stack of e-mails (150+ so far) the family all read them thoroughly
>and it seems to give them an emotional lift. The families of his
>daughters high school band have been great at providing lunch and dinner
>each day... a big help!
>
>Just talked to Randy's daughter Kinsey and she said the doctors are
>really looking for some improvements over the next few days. We have
>learned this week to look for and appreciate the small improvements,
>this is going to be a long haul for Randy.
>
>Keep hangin' in there, we'll do the same, and so will that big Canuck.
>
>Paul
>
##########################################################################
Date: Sat, 2 Aug 1997 14:42:39 -0400 (EDT)
From: Marquisgil@aol.com
Subject: Randy - Not much Change
I'll keep it short today. As of this morning (Saturday) things are pretty
much the same as the last few. They skipped dialysis yesterday but it was in
process late this morning. It takes 3+ hours and wouldn't complete until near
1 p.m. With no visiting between 1 and 4 every afternoon in the Intensive
Care Unit, there was little chance to see him until later. But we'll be in
full force tonight with Randy.
Keeping the faith!
Paul
##########################################################################
Date: Sun, 3 Aug 1997 17:15:11 -0400 (EDT)
From: Marquisgil@aol.com
Subject: Marquis: Randy's hospitalization health update for Aug. 3
First of all thank you everyone for all your wonderful letters of prayer and
encouragement. They have meant so much to Jan and her family and to the
quartet families. Please keep them coming. This is a very slow and tiring
process for us all and your good words keep us going and strong for Randy and
Jan.
Paul is at the hospital now, he's been there all day. Randy's lung collapsed
this a.m. and his blood pressure dropped. The doctors have corrected both
problems and now Randy is still hanging in there. This comes after he looked
so good to us yesterday when we visited. We pray this is just a small
setback and that we start to see some steady improvement. We need your
prayers now more than ever.
Thanks again for your support. Debbie (Paul's wife)
##########################################################################
From: "Coates, Jim"
Subject: FW: Randy Chisholm - the loss of a great friend
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 11:48:23 -0400
Passing this on at Paul's request.
Jim Coates
>----------
>From: Gilman, Paul[SMTP:Gilman@scripps.com]
>Sent: Monday, August 04, 1997 10:25 AM
>
>
>Dear friends of Randy, I am sure this tragic news has traveled to the
>far corners already, but our great friend passed away last night at 7:41
>p.m.
>
>Sunday started bad for Randy, a lung collapsed, blood pressure dropped,
>and heart stopped briefly mid-morning. It seemed like the start of a
>miracle that his doctor, who should have been off that day, happened by
>his door at the same moment all this occurred. He was quickly
>stabilized but the doctor provided little hope short of a miracle.
>Around 7 p.m. the nurses informed the family that things were in bad
>shape. Randy put a great fight but could never turn the corner to
>recover from the grips of this infection. I just don't understand.
>
>I do not have the details for the services yet, but as soon as known I
>will post.
>
>While this Internet and e-mail stuff was great for the speed and volume
>(over 200 messages last week) at which we could pass the support and
>encouragement of so many people on to Randy and his family, the
>impersonal side of it doesn't quite do justice to the immensity of the
>loss of such a great person.
>
>I am the luckiest man in the world to have been able to spend an
>incredible four years on this journey with Randy.
>
>With love from Marquis and the Chisholm family,
>
>Paul Gilman
##########################################################################
Date: Mon, 04 Aug 1997 16:40:49 -0700
From: L&G Chartier
Subject: Memories of a great friend.
I met Randy last year for the first time at Harmony Pilgrimage in North
Adams, MA. I had seen the video from Internationals the year before when
they won and said "Now that is how I want to sound." Well on the
Saturday, we were fortunate enough to spend an hour and 45 minutes with
Randy. We laughed and joked and talked about all of us being
Canadians(eh?). We even got some work done. We worked 45 minutes on
getting one song right. Now I sing it as if Randy is sitting in the front
row, watching to see that I have taken everything he said and put it into
the song. For the rest of the weekend, we sang with Marquis and just hung
out, as if we had known each other forever.
We met again at Bolton Landing that same year. Marquis showed up just
in time to hear our quartet sing on stage and then to hear us announced
as the college champs. It was amazing. We were asked to sing on the
Sunday night show and we hung out with the guys backstage. Being a cold
night, I had given my jacket to my tenor, to keep her warm. When Marquis
went on stage, Randy gave me his jacket, to keep me warm. He was always
that way, very thoughtful.
We corresponded with Randy throughout the year, letting him know how
we were coming along. He didn't have to write, but he did.
When I asked Marquis to sign my CD last year, Randy took it and signed
the words that I now live by:
"Sing with your heart, Louie"
That is all one can do, sing with one's heart. I will sing with all of my
heart, because that is where Randy is. I know that he will be watching
over all of us.
Sincerely,
Lindsay Chartier
Lead- The Mixed Nuts
##########################################################################
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 97 18:50:41 UT
From: "Thomas A. Kentish"
Subject: "I will pass this way but Once.."
I knew Randy Chisholm casually, but in February of 1995, Marquis did a big
show in Chicago - the CABC show and my quartet was giving a debut
performance with our new lead singer. We were excited about the chance
to sing for Marquis and see if they had any comments for us.
Randy took the time to watch a video that I had sent him and then he mailed
me several pages of detailed coaching comments about my quartet's performance
on the glow. All this in a time when they were the current 4th place
medallists
with a show schedule busier than ever and they were obviously just
starting their big push on the way to their championship in Miami Beach in
July.
A time when most people/quartets wouldn't have time to reach out and do
something kind for someone they barely knew.
One of his comments will linger with me, "...no matter how hard you think
you've
been working, no matter how good you think you've become -- you can always
do more and remember being 'good enough' is NEVER 'good enough'...."
He took the time to watch a video and write comments on how we could
improve - mail it back to me and then at Miami, he saw me - remembered me
and asked if I got his comments and wished us luck. How many would do that?
For those of you who haven't seen the 2nd PBS Keep America Singing special
aired last fall with Marquis....fast forward about 40 minutes into the show
where
they sing "I will pass this way but Once."...you can't help but be moved as I
was
watching it today.
I'll share the lyrics now, as they seem most appropriate.
I will pass this way but once,
and if there's any good that I can do
let me do it now, for I'll never pass this way again.
I will see this day but once,
and if there's any kindness I can show,
let me show it now -
for I'll never see this day again.
Tomorrow may be too late my friend,
to do all the good that you planned.
So reach out to those who need you
and lend them a helping hand.
I will know this world but once
and if there's any love that I can give,
then let me give it now -
oh lord, please show me how
For I'll never know this world,
I'll never see this day -
I'll never pass this way again...
Randy, thanks for the kindness you've showed me personally, for the love
you've shown on stage and in person for the thousands who have been
lucky enough to have heard your lead voice and be moved by it.
I'm sure he lived those lyrics by what he demonstrated to me.
Tom Kentish
Northbrook, New Tradition
acapella@msn.com
##########################################################################
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 18:27:54 -0400 (EDT)
From: Tom Emmert
Subject: Subject: Randy Chisholm Funeral Arrangements
Paul asked me to forward this to the net:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Visitation is Thursday, August 7, 6 - 9 p.m. at:
Gebhart-Schmidt-Parramore Funeral Home
508 E. Linden Ave.
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Funeral is Friday, August 8, 11 a.m. at:
Central Christian Church of Kettering
1200 Forrer Blvd.
Kettering, OH
Condolences, etc. can be sent to the Chisholm home at:
1320 Vista Ridge Dr.
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Donations can be made to:
Harmony Foundation
6315 Third Ave.
Kenosha, WI 53143-5199
specify the donation to Keep A Melody Ringing Fund in the name of Randy
Chisholm
Those planning to attend needing overnight accommodations,
transportation, directions, etc. can preferably e-mail me at
gilman@scripps.com or call directly (513)977-3908 or (513)923-9457 and I
will provide that info.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Tom Emmert
For Paul Gilman
##########################################################################
From: "Coates, Jim"
Subject: Randy Chisholm's passing
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 12:05:53 -0400
Barbershop friends and fans -
I just can't express the loss that I'm feeling right now, and I know all
of you feel it too. The family has had so much wonderful support. When I
got to the house last night, there with Randy's wife Jan and his
daughters Erin and Kinsey were Randy's parents, Jan's Mom, the rest of
Marquis with their wives and kids, Jim and Rosemary Miller, and several
other friends of the family. Other friends and family members are on
their way in right now.
The notes of support and encouragement that you all sent really helped
them keep their spirits up over the ordeal of the last ten days.
We will get information out to you on the arrangements for the services,
etc. But for now, if you would like to send any words to the family and
the quartet, you can e-mail them to me and I'll make sure they all get
printed and taken to Jan and to the guys. I'm sure that any special
memories that you have of this wonderful man will help comfort them as
they struggle to deal with this.
Probably as much as anyone else I know, Randy embodied the spirit in the
words of 'I'll Never Pass This Way Again', and you could tell how
heartfelt the lyric was for him every time he sang it. His goodness and
love he gave freely and without hesitation wherever he went.
As with Paul, I feel so privileged to have shared some time coaching and
working with and being friends with this incredible man. He will be
sorely missed.
Jim Coates
jim.coates@daytonoh.ncr.com
##########################################################################
From: Carole Prietto
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 16:14:09 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Randy Chisolm
My first -- as it turned out my only -- encounter with Randy Chisolm came
in Indy, where I had the good fortune to be seated among the members and
families of Marquis. Their performance before one of the quartet
sessions was the only time I got to hear Randy sing live. Even
though I never knew Randy except to shake his hand, I am deeply saddened
by the fact that I'll never get to hear him sing again. Such a wonderful
talent, taken from us altogether too soon.
Carole Prietto
Lead, St. Louis Harmony Chorus (SAI Region 5)
http://www.harmonize.com/STLHarmony/
prietto@library.wustl.edu
##########################################################################
Return-receipt-to: Savoie_S@palmer.edu
Registered-mail-reply-requested-by: Savoie_S@palmer.edu
Date: Mon, 04 Aug 1997 15:48:57 -0500 (CDT)
Date-warning: Date header was inserted by palmer.edu
From: Savoie_S@palmer.edu
Subject: Randy Chisholm Update -Reply
Date: 08/04/1997 03:19 pm (Monday)
From: Steve Savoie
Subject: Randy Chisholm Update -Reply
My deepest sympathies to the family and others close to Randy. It's
been said that everytime you perform, you give the audience a gift. Well
Randy and Marquis gave many, many gifts and through audio and video
recordings many barbershop fans will be able to receive the gift of
Randy's performance without the distinct pleasure and privilege of
seeing him in person. I'm sure those who have had the opportunity to
see him person will treasure the memory.
Steve Savoie, Lead
The Chordbuster Chorus
Davenport, IA
##########################################################################
Return-receipt-to: JIM.CARSON@Warren.US.ALCAN.CA
Disclose-recipients: prohibited
Date: Mon, 04 Aug 1997 15:33:45 -0500
From: carson
Subject: Re: Randy Chisolm
Autoforwarded: false
Importance: normal
Sensitivity: Company-Confidential
UA-content-id: 11B823DC2C00
Hop-count: 1
I remember a time a few years ago, the feature quartet on our show for the
Warren, OH chapter was the 'Naturals.' (I think it was just about their
last show.. 'Marquis' was already performing to rave reviews.) I ended up
sticking around after the afterglow, waiting to speak with Randy.
Two things happened that night that I will never forget.
First, the enthusiastic, and energetic lead from our local seniors
quartet, Bill James, asked of he could sing one with the quartet. Randy
graciously stood aside, as they sang a rousing, but slightly off-key
version of some old chestnut. [was it "Nellie?"] Randy led the applause
afterward, and never tried to suggest that the performance was anything
but perfect. Bill has since passed away, I know this was one of the high
points of his barbershop life.
Then Randy stepped back into the quartet and said, "Let's do one more,
fellas!" They went into a huddle for a minute, then turned to face the
little group that was left. Randy looked into my daughter's eyes, and
asked, "May we sing to you?" I thought he might tease her a bit, as he was
known to do, occasionally. She could use some cheering up, but that was
not his plan.
By the wildest chance, he chose "Who'll dry your tears?" It was lovely.
There wasn't a dry eye there, but Randy didn't know why his song moved
everyone so. What he could not have known, and didn't find out until I
told him several months later, was that my daughter had just ended her
abusive marriage. This moment was the beginning of her long road to
recovery.
Randy was a consummate entertainer, and a dear, wonderful human being.
Jim Carson
carson@warren.us.alcan.ca
##########################################################################
From: BXKN19C@prodigy.com (MRS GAIL J BARRENA)
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 19:37:07, -0500
Subject: Randy Chisolm
After reading the messages, and the original announcement, I am
sitting here with tears in my eyes for a wonderful singer that I wish
I
had met. It sounds like he was a very compassionate, and passionate
man. Whenever I hear Rockabye Your Baby, I'll imagine him
rather than Jolson. I too have the PBS special tape, and the first
cassette that was produced. Now I consider them a very treasured
remembrance of the great lead that he was. He will undoubtedly be
missed by everyone in the barbershop world. May his voice linger
and swell in the great place on high.
____
Gail J. Barrena
BXKN19C@prodigy.com
Southland Harmony Chorus - Region 11
http://pages.prodigy.com/CA/jean/Harmony.html
"Give me Harmony, not Hominy!"
##########################################################################
Date: Mon, 04 Aug 1997 15:49:28 -0500
From: goldmedl@interaccess.com (Giallombardo's Et Al)
Subject: Re: Not Much Harmony Here
Cc: bbshop@admin.humberc.on.ca
At 11:33 AM 8/4/97 -0400, BariStan@aol.com wrote:
>What a week this is going to be on the H@armonet! Just before 2 a.m. Monday,
>one man ripped another asunder for apologizing to a Sweet Adeline. At 5
>a.m., another man advocated dumping our national anthem. And at 7:30 a.m.,
>word came that Randy Chisholm had passed away.
>
>This is a three-ring circus!
>
>Stan Wardwell
>BariStan@aol.com
Why anyone would lump in the passing of a champion quartet lead singer, not
to mention a wonderful family man and a gentleman who always had a kind word
for everyone, into the same pot as the typical topical debates that happen
on the Harmonet (and I believe in the right to debate, BTW) is beyond me.
I would hope that we barbershoppers are above responding to the posts on the
Harmonet as if it were sensationalism (The Star, The National Enquirer).
Isn't news of that order different than the Debate of the Day? Thank
heavens for those who were closest to Randy who have had the presence of
mind to put together what had to be the toughest posts they'll probably ever
write for us not near Dayton OH to be informed in a timely basis.
Helen Giallombardo, AIC wife who was proud to have known Randy Chisholm and
in awe of his ability to communicate with his singer's voice
--- responding from the heart to the above-quoted post
goldmedl@interaccess.com
##########################################################################
From: DEBORAH JACKSON
Subject: Re: Randy Chisholm
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 20:01:32 -0400
I also have the PBS tape. I wasn't sure when I first read about Randy that
it was Marquis on the tape. I looked at the tape after reading about his
passing. Sure enough it was Randy. I loved the way he sang Jolson and the
song 'I will pass this way but Once..." I had hoped to be able to see
Marquis in person and also get some of their CD's after noticing a post
about them. My thoughts go out to the family and friends of Randy. From
the recent postings he sounds like a wonderful person to know.
Yours in Harmony
Deb
_________________________________________________
Deborah Jackson, Director The Brant Choraleens Area V
Tenor Frivolity
Brantford, Ontario, Canada
:-) ;-)
Don't sing of yesterday, for yesterday is gone
Sing for tomorrow, and make today your song. Anon
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 5 Aug 1997 00:28:43 -0400 (EDT)
From: Rogsp10r@aol.com
Subject: Re: Randy Chisholm
Brothers and sisters:
On behalf of the Big Apple Chorus and the New York City barbershop community,
our deepest sympathies to the Chisholm family, and to everyone in
barbershopping.
This is a tremendous loss to his family and everyone who knew him. If you had
a chance to meet him (as all of the Big Apple Chorus did when they did our
show in June) you know that his wonderful music was nothing more than a
sharing of the wonderful person within him. His voice was magnificent, but so
are a lot of others; his style reflected the warmth and humanity he brought
to singing, and THAT was unique and unparalleled during my time in
barbershopping.
He will be sorely missed, and we are all the poorer for his passing.
Roger Payne
Communications VP
The Big Apple Chorus
##########################################################################
From: Kira Prewitt
Subject: Re: Randy Chisholm
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 1997 21:39:06 -0700
X-BeyondMail-Priority: 1
Conversation-Id: <199708050425.VAA02101@sam.napanet.net>
> From: "Roger S. Payne" , on 8/5/97 12:28 AM:
> Brothers and sisters:
> snip <
> He will be sorely missed, and we are all the poorer for his passing.
>
> Roger Payne
Agreed Roger - but also all the richer for his having let us into his world of
passion and joy shared through his music!
Kira Prewitt
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 1997 10:11:47 -0700
From: Jeremy & Barbara Reynolds
Organization: BankSoft Consultants, Inc.
Subject: Randy
I'm sorry that I've never met Randy, though I've been enjoying his music
and voice for years. All of us barbershoppers here in South Africa have
heard the CDs from Marquis. It is sad to know that he will not "pass
this way again."
Speaking as a representative from the Southern Part of Africa Tonsorial
Songsters (SPATS), we would like to express our sympathies to his
family, his quartet members, all his many friends, and barbershoppers
everywhere. Randy is no longer in pain, but we are for his loss.
Yours in harmony
Jeremy Reynolds
President, SPATS
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 5 Aug 1997 07:44:56 -0400 (EDT)
From: HarmonyPup@aol.com
Subject: Moments to Remember / Randy Chisholm
Dear friends,
How deeply saddened I, and the Dapper Dans of Harmony, were to hear of the
loss of this great man and great singer. After hearing the news last night, I
replayed the quartet contest video from Salt Lake City, where Marquis
performs "Moments to Remember".
Randy's wonderful voice and musicality, incredible charisma on stage, and his
special style will live on as benchmarks in our hobby. Randy, you have given
us so many Moments to Remember......thank you!
Our hearts go out to Randy's family and close friends in this tremendous. We
hope and pray that you will heal soon. Randy's memory lives on.
Fondly,
Bob Rund
Director, Dapper Dans of Harmony
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 1997 10:33:12 -0700
From: KRS
Organization: KRS Marketing Inc.
Subject: Randy
I am deeply saddened by news of Randy's passing.
I carry fond memories of sharing the stage with Randy when he was with
Halton County Road Show, Ontario District Champs 1980.
Our quartets performed on several shows together and we all knew then
that we were in the company of a wonderful talent and a warm and loving
person.
He never failed to have a warm smile and a bear hug for his friends or
anyone else who wished to meet him.
He is sadly missed by all who knew him.
Our simpathy and thoughts go out to his family, friends and members of
Marquis.
Matt Short (for The Tri-City Slickers Quartet and families)
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 5 Aug 1997 12:07:17 -0400
From: malinka@openix.com (Rae Phillips)
Subject: Words for Randy Chisholm
It Is Not Growing like a Tree
It is not growing like a tree
In bullk, doth make man better be;
Or standing long an oak, three hundred year,
To fall a log at last, dry, bald, and sere:
A lily of a day
Is fairer far in May;
Although it fall and die that night,
It was the plant and flower of light.
In small proportions, we just beauties see,
And in short measures, life may perfect be.
Ben Jonson
1572-1637
Rae Phillips, malinka@openix.com
Baritone, Ramapo Valley, Reg. 15
"There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life:
music and cats." Albert Schweitzer
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 97 13:53 EDT
From: TSSJFF%DUKE.bitnet@cunyvm.cuny.edu
Subject: Re: Randy Chisolm
Like so many others, I too am a Randy Chisolm fan. To say that the
likes of him "may never pass this way again" is a gross understatement.
With his passing, we no longer have a standard that we can measure
greatness against.
Having just seen him (and heard him!) in Indy, just a month ago makes
it all the more difficult to comprehend this whole bizarre event. I
keep thinking someone's playing a really sick joke on all of us.
The only thing that seem to make sense to me is that God has finally
decided to start His own quartet and He went out and got the best lead
there was.
Jim Frisbie tssjff@sysa.adm.duke.edu
bass RTP, NC -- the General Assembly
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 5 Aug 1997 16:26:56 -0400 (EDT)
From: JOANER69@aol.com
Subject: Remembering Randy.....
Forwarded message:
Subj: Remembering Randy.....
Date: 97-08-04 19:19:18 EDT
From: JOANER69
I have been sitting here at my computer, reading everyone's tributes to
Randy with the tears rolling down my face. The mention of that song was
enough to well up emotions ~ the lyrics were too much to bear!
I too have been moved by Randy's magic since the days of the Naturals.
But I have witnessed something that many of you have not that I would like
to share.
And that is the same outpouting of love between Randy and those he
touched at the BABS convention in Britain. Randy and Marquis had that same
palpable magic and love, communicated through music, with those wonderful
barbershoppers across the pond that they shared with all of us here in
America.
Randy was truly internationally loved! He remains a very special
person, and my heart goes out to his family, his larger quartet family, and
his entire barbershop family, which includes all of us. But remember we are
richer for having known him, and let's all live his philosophy and make each
day count. The best you could hope for would be to live in such a way as to
be loved, missed, and remembered as he is.
Jean Garrett
Ramapo Valley Chorus
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 5 Aug 1997 17:34:41 -0400 (EDT)
From: Tom Emmert
Subject: Updated Randy Funeral Arrangements (fwd)
Once again, forwarding for Paul:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Subject: Updated Randy Funeral Arrangements
I have updated the funeral arrangements below with directions and some
hotel info. Also note the second memorial fund established for Randy's
kids college fund as an option to the Harmony Foundation fund.
I wish I could respond to all of your messages personally but right now
time does not permit. They are being conveyed to the family and are
very meaningful in dealing with the loss of Randy.
>
>Visitation is Thursday, August 7, 6 - 9 p.m. at:
>Gebhart-Schmidt-Parramore Funeral Home
>508 E. Linden Ave.
>Miamisburg, OH 45342
>Phone: 937-866-3373
>Directions: Exit from I-75 on the south side of Dayton to 725 West
>(Miamisburg-Centerville exit), proceed west a few miles into the town of
>Miamisburg. Turn left at 6th or 5th Street. The funeral home is at the
>corner of Linden and 5th.
>
>Funeral is Friday, August 8, 11 a.m. at:
>Central Christian Church of Kettering
>1200 Forrer Blvd.
>Kettering, OH
>Phone: 937-254-2649
>Directions: Exit from I-75 on the south side of Dayton to 35 East, take 35
>East to Smithville Rd., take the Smithville South exit, proceed a few miles
>to Forrer Rd., church is on the right across from Elder Beerman store, if you
>get to Dorothy Lane you went too far.
>
>Condolences, etc. can be sent to the Chisholm home at:
>1320 Vista Ridge Dr.
>Miamisburg, OH 45342
>
>Donations can be made to either:
>Randy Chisholm Memorial Fund or Harmony Foundation
>c/o Star Bank 6315 Third Ave.
>P.O Box 150 Kenosha, WI 53143-5199
>Eaton, OH 45320 specify Keep A Melody Ringing Fund in Randy's
name
>
>The fund with Star Bank is for assisting Randy's daughters with their college
>education. Erin is a sophomore at Xavier University in Cincinnati majoring
>in pre-med. Kinsey is a junior at Miamisburg High School and will be
>attending college.
>
>Hotel Accommodations are tough to find, many nearby hotels are full. The
>Courtyard by Marriot at Dayton Mall (1-800-321-2211) is close with rooms in
>the $88-$98 range. About five miles south in Springboro the Ramada
>1-800-228-2828) has rooms in the $60-$70 range.
>If you need any other assistance please contact me.
>
>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Tom Emmert
For Paul Gilman
##########################################################################
From: rsuver@juno.com (Rodger A A Suver)
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 1997 17:36:08 EDT
Let us convey our sincere sympathies to the family of Randy Chisolm. We
had the pleasure of doing a show in Cleveland this spring with Marquis
and were with him in Indianapolis. We have lost a great singer and
friend. "THE OLD
HATS' Rodger Al Tom Al
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 1997 18:32:03 -0400
From: jimmoore@wesnet.com (James Moore)
Subject: The Passing of a Friend
I am a lurker in the truest sense of the word for I peer over my
friend's shoulder at the activity on the Harmonet. He is posting this
for me for your consideration and my release.
While Randy gave freely of his talents and his spirit, he received in
equal measure. He drew deeply from the Wells of Life with robust
enthusiasm and achieved great success. He had a loving, supportive wife
and adoring daughters whom he cherished. He was blessed with proud,
loving parents whom he loved deeply. He won the respect of his peers and
the adulation of audiences for whom he was thrilled to perform. He won
the friendship of many across North America and abroad from whom he drew
his boundless energy.
I stood to his right for over 3 years and it was "A Helluva Ride".
While we mourn our loss, let us celebrate the man and his life.
Dick Baker, Bass, ACT IV, 1985-86-87
##########################################################################
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 1997 19:19:04 -0700
From: Paula Keiser
Subject: The Great Ones Never Die!
Dick Butler wrote:
While we mourn our loss, let us celebrate the man and his life.
----------------------------------------
I seem to be one of the few here who never knew Randy personally.
Nevertheless, quite by accident, I played the 1996 PBS tape of "Keep
America Singing" on Sunday morning with a friend, an experienced SAI
member, in attendance. She said, "Marquis! That's the quartet that has
Randy Chisholm, the guy who is so sick, that we've been reading about on
Harmonet." She decided that the TENOR was Randy.
As we watched the performance, never realizing that we were viewing
history recorded, I said, "The lead is really cute! He seems like a
really nice guy. I'd like to know him." As they sang, "I Will Never
Pass This Way Again", I dampened a few Kleenex.
Then I read the news on Monday. The "cute guy I'd like to know" was
Randy.
As I've read the tributes from those of you who actually DID know him, I
sincerely wish I HAD.
A song is always running through my head, especially in the morning.
Sometimes they drive me nuts, like when it's, "I've Been Everywhere."
They go over and over, repeating the same melody with boring lyrics.
THIS morning, though, as I read 17 messages, about 15 of which were
tributes to "the cute guy I'd like to know", the song was, "I'll Never
Pass This Way Again". Then, like now, the tears were flowing for a man
I'd never met, but wish I had.
My heart goes out to all of you who had the opportunity.
"While we mourn our loss, let us celebrate the man and his life."
Yes, Dick, let's do it!
Paula
##########################################################################
From: blynch@spebsqsa.org
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 7:21:17 -0600
Cc: bbshop@admin.humberc.on.ca
Subject: re: Randy Chisholm
My heart aches at the loss of this great singer, great man, and fine friend=
. My=20
condolences and prayers are with his family, which extends beyond blood and=
=20
marriage to his musical family. What closer ties can bind one than shared=20
harmony and the love it carries?
My fondest memory of Randy is from the Miami convention in 1995. I spotted=20=
Randy
wandering a quiet hallway of the headquarters hotel, gazing off into space=20=
as he
listened to his Walkman. From a distance, I thought I could see his lips mo=
ving.
Greeting me, he removed his headphones, from which trailed the sounds of ..=
.=20
Marquis.=20
Just hours away from the contest, he was studying his music! Every nuance o=
f=20
voice leading, emotion, inflection -- none of it would be lacking in his=20
performance.
His dedication to his craft was supreme, resulting in the supreme artistry=20=
that=20
made him not just a champion, but arguably the finest interpreter of a phra=
se=20
that we've ever heard.
We are all poorer for his loss, for the many songs we'll never hear from hi=
m;=20
but we are richer for having shared his music.
--Brian Lynch
a Randy fan since hearing The Naturals sing "What'll I Do?" in 1992
----------------------------------------------------------------
Harmony College 1997: Where do YOU want to go in barbershopping?
----------------------------------------------------------------
Brian Lynch, SPEBSQSA Public Relations Manager
6315 Third Avenue Kenosha, WI 53143
800-876-SING Fax 414-654-4048
mailto: pr@SPEBSQSA.org http://www.SPEBSQSA.org
Find other staff: http://www.spebsqsa.org/links/hhroster.html
##########################################################################
From: McGettigan_Catherine_A@hq.navsea.navy.mil
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 09:12:20 -0400
Subject: Randy Chisholm's gift of music
Like so many others, I too have been a huge fan of Randy Chisholm,
Marquis and the Naturals. I have all his tapes, have been entranced
and in awe of that wonderful voice and the wonderful voices that sang
with him in those quartets. Gentlemen, you and Randy have given me
some of the most treasured moments in my years as a barbershop fan,
chorus and quartet singer. As one barbershopper put it, Randy has
shared with us his gift of music. I'd like to thank him and those
wonderful guys in Marquis and the Naturals who helped shared his gift,
his wonderful family for inspiring that gift and you other
barbershoppers, ladies and gentlemen, who continue to share with us
your gifts of music - thank you. It has been and continues to be a
very special experience filled with moments of tremendous joy and
moments, like now, of intense sorrow.
Kitty McGettigan
BASS, NUANCE
Potomac Harmony Showtime Chorus
Region 14, Sweet Adelines International
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 06 Aug 1997 11:17:51 -0400
From: Chazz Lavely
Subject: Randy Chisholm
I was shocked to first hear on the Harmonet of Randys illness.
After being in such apparently good health just a few short weeks
earlier in Indy it is indeed hard to understand. "Watching" his
illness progress , through the posts of Paul Gilman (thank you Paul),
was like watching an on-coming train in slow motion. We were
all praying so hard, but it did not pass by.
I did not know Randy personally, but being from the same area,
have been fortunate to meet him and his quartet members many times.
Following his barbershop career for so long, listening to so many
wonderful performances, has been a great blessing.
Gail Barrena wrote in her post Mon. "Whenever I hear Rockabye Your
Baby, I'll imagine him rather than Jolson." How true! I will remember
many songs as "Randy Originals" One of my favorite songs of his was
one he sang with his quartet "The Naturals", "You Can t Be a Beacon If
Your Light Don t Shine". A song about reaching out to others.
>From the many posts recalling memories of Randy, most told of his
compassion, generosity, and kindness. Randy was indeed a great Beacon,
with a brilliant, shining Light.
There are songs that I will never again be able to listen to, or sing,
without thinking of Randy, thankful for the wonderful talent he shared
with us, and remembering the loss of his passing. His light will always shine.
To his family and close friends, our prayers are with you.
Chazz Lavely
Delta Kings Chorus
Cincinnati, Ohio
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 14:31:28 -0400
From: JGREENE@FSC.EDU
Subject: RE: Randy Chisholm's passing
Dear Chisholm Family, Please accept my sincere condolences in this
difficult time of pain and loss. I'm confident that Randy was recruited
immediately for the heavenly host and will contribute great honor and
glory to the Creator,who granted him such wonderful musical talent. It
was my genuine pleasure to be present with MARQUIS and your families that
magical evening in Hialeah. What great fun and fabulous barbershop music!
I wore my MARQUIS button all during the Miami convention and many times
subsequently. This delightful MARQUIS rivals BOSTON COMMON, my favorite. I am
most blessed and privileged to have known and enjoyed Randy Chisholm. Heaven
forRandy commenced that perfect night in Miami; he's doubtless a real patron
saint
fo barbershoppers.
Jerry Greene, Leominster MA Chapter Jgreene@fsc.edu
##########################################################################
Date: Thu, 07 Aug 1997 07:07:57 -0500
From: Brian Lynch
Subject: Re: Randy Chisholm
Cc: bbshop@admin.humberc.on.ca
My heart aches at the loss of this great singer, great man, and fine friend.
My condolences and prayers are with his family, which extends beyond blood
and marriage to his musical family. What closer ties can bind one than
shared harmony and the love it carries?
My fondest memory of Randy is from the Miami convention in 1995. I spotted
Randy wandering a quiet hallway of the headquarters hotel, gazing off into
space as he listened to his Walkman. From a distance, I thought I could see
his lips moving. Greeting me, he removed his headphones, from which trailed
the sounds of ... Marquis.
Just hours away from the contest, he was studying his music! Every nuance of
voice leading, emotion, inflection -- none of it would be lacking in his
performance.
His dedication to his craft was supreme, resulting in the supreme artistry
that made him not just a champion, but arguably the finest interpreter of a
phrase that we've ever heard.
We are all poorer for his loss, for the many songs we'll never hear from
him; but we are richer for having shared his music.
--Brian Lynch
a Randy fan since hearing The Naturals sing "What'll I Do?" in 1992
----------------------------------------------------------------
Brian Lynch, SPEBSQSA Public Relations Manager
6315 Third Avenue Kenosha, WI 53143
800-876-SING Fax 414-654-4048
mailto: pr@SPEBSQSA.org http://www.SPEBSQSA.org
Find other staff: http://www.spebsqsa.org/links/hhroster.html
##########################################################################
Subject: Randy's Legacy in recordings?
From: slickerlead@juno.com (Bob Caldwell)
Date: Wed, 06 Aug 1997 16:03:35 EDT
Chazz Lavely wrote:
<<>>
I did not know Randy personally, but being from the same area,
have been fortunate to meet him and his quartet members many times.
Following his barbershop career for so long, listening to so many
wonderful performances, has been a great blessing.
One of my favorite songs of his was one he sang with his quartet "The
Naturals", "You Can't Be a Beacon If Your Light Don't Shine". A song
about reaching out to others. Randy was indeed a great Beacon, with a
brilliant, shining Light. His light will always shine.
<<>>
While reading the many posts about Randy's passing I have noted
that he sang with other quartets besides Marquis and Naturals.
Did any of those other quartets record CDs or even LPs or cassettes?
I listen to my Marquis and Naturals CDs regularly because I
have for a long time enjoyed the tremendous expression and extension
Randy put into his performance of all his songs.
I'd love to add any other recordings of quartets he performed
in to my collection.
We ALL loved your singing, Randy. And those of us who never
had the good fortune of meeting you in person feel as if we
know you by now from all the great things we've heard said
about you in recent days by people who's lives you touched or
who were part of your extended family.
I have to agree with one comment I heard here on the Harmonet.
The "man upstairs" must putting together one fine quartet.
Bob Caldwell SlickerLead@JUNO.COM o[\\\\\]
Lead ............ City Slickers Quartet
1997 Mid-Atlantic Southern Division Quartet Champions
Lead leader...... Richmond VIRGINIANS Chorus
Everything I love is either illegal, immoral, or
fattening except barbershop!
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 20:59:34 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mahaller@aol.com
Subject: Tribute to Randy
While I was never fortunate enough to have met Randy Chisholm, I did see the
PBS tape of Marquis and felt as though I knew him through it. I will never
forget hearing Randy sing. As a lead in SAI, I always enjoy hearing the very
best of our craft.
Did anyone contact Mitch Miller regarding Randy's passing? I think he would
have wanted to know.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Jan and the girls (young women). They
can gain comfort from having known Randy as a loving husband and father for
those many years. Those of us who only knew him briefly are richer for
having made his acquaintance. His family, including his quartet family, is
richer yet for having been that much closer to a wonderful, loving man.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.
Mary Haller
Lead, Vienna-Falls Chorus, SAI
1988 International Chorus Champions
1997 Regional Champions -- NASHVILLE BOUND!!
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 06 Aug 1997 21:52:42 -0400
From: Jack Martin
Subject: Picture of Randy
For those of you who may be interested, there is a great picture of
Randy Chisholm singing with his 1980 Ontario District Champ Quartet, the
Halton County Road Show, on page 25 or the July/Aug 1997 Harmonizer. He had
returned for a renunion and anniversary show in Burlington, Ontario earlier
this year.
Jack Martin
Sunshine Jubilee
Winter Park Fl.jwmartin@gate.net
##########################################################################
Subject: Dayton Metro, We're thinking of you
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 97 01:50:57 -0500
x-mailer: Claris Emailer 2.0v2, June 6, 1997
From: jimmoore@wesnet.com (James Moore)
Miami Shelby Chapter met tonight. Dick Baker, our director and former
bass of ACT IV, and others remembered Randy, and it struck me that one of
his later claims to fame hasn't been mentioned much on the Harmonet. We
have a couple men who are active with both our Melody Men Chorus as well
as the Miami Valley Music Men of Dayton. Randy was their chorus director,
and very obviously commanded the respect of that organization. During a
recent chapter visitation, our two choruses renewed friendships and
acquaintances, and sang for each other. We were moved by the energy and
charisma and sound we noticed in our Dayton neighbors that night with
Randy at the helm. It seemed apparent he and they were a match, and that
Randy's talents and their's were being tapped in a good way. Many of us
noted the good energy as the choruses combined that evening to sing "Keep
America Singing" under Randy's direction. We Melody Men extend our hearts
to our friends at Dayton Metro. You have lost a friend and mentor. As
Dick Baker noted earlier, there is quite a man and life to celebrate, and
it is important your successes and time with Randy be remembered as one
of his legacies as well.
Dr. Jim Moore, Editor of the Miami Shelby Chapter's NotePaper
aka MiamiShlby@aol.com
"Keep the Whole World Singing"
##########################################################################
Date: Wed, 06 Aug 1997 21:52:42 -0400
From: Jack Martin
Subject: Picture of Randy
For those of you who may be interested, there is a great picture of
Randy Chisholm singing with his 1980 Ontario District Champ Quartet, the
Halton County Road Show, on page 25 or the July/Aug 1997 Harmonizer. He had
returned for a renunion and anniversary show in Burlington, Ontario earlier
this year.
Jack Martin
Sunshine Jubilee
Winter Park Fl.jwmartin@gate.net
##########################################################################
Date: Thu, 7 Aug 1997 10:50:00 -0500 (CDT)
From: Thomas Arneberg
Subject: Web page for Randy (was Re: Picture of Randy)
> Date: Wed, 06 Aug 1997 21:52:42 -0400
> From: Jack Martin
>
> For those of you who may be interested, there is a great picture of
> Randy Chisholm singing with his 1980 Ontario District Champ Quartet, the
> Halton County Road Show, on page 25 or the July/Aug 1997 Harmonizer. He had
> returned for a renunion and anniversary show in Burlington, Ontario earlier
> this year.
In case you can't find your Harmonizer and still can't put a face to the
name, I just put a small photo of Randy on the barbershop FAQ page:
http://www.mcs.net/~toma/bbshop/
There is also a link to a compilation of all the articles about Randy
that have appeared on the Harmonet in the last couple weeks.
- Tom A.
--------------------------------------------+---------------------
;-) I'd rather be ____ Thomas R. Arneberg | www.mcs.com/~toma
:-) singing in a |____| toma@cray.com (CIC) | "How does it change
:-) Barbershop _| _| SGI/Cray Research | many dyslexics to
:-) Quartet! (_) (_) Chippewa Falls, WI | take a light bulb?"
--------------------------------------------+---------------------
##########################################################################
Date: Thu, 07 Aug 1997 12:20:34 -0700
From: L&G Chartier
Subject: Re: Web page for Randy (was Re: Picture of Randy)
Thomas Arneberg wrote:
>
> > Date: Wed, 06 Aug 1997 21:52:42 -0400
> > From: Jack Martin
> >
> > For those of you who may be interested, there is a great picture of
> > Randy Chisholm singing with his 1980 Ontario District Champ Quartet, the
> > Halton County Road Show, on page 25 or the July/Aug 1997 Harmonizer. He had
> > returned for a renunion and anniversary show in Burlington, Ontario earlier
> > this year.
>
> In case you can't find your Harmonizer and still can't put a face to the
> name, I just put a small photo of Randy on the barbershop FAQ page:
>
> http://www.mcs.net/~toma/bbshop/
>
> There is also a link to a compilation of all the articles about Randy
> that have appeared on the Harmonet in the last couple weeks.
>
> - Tom A.
Tom,
I just looked at the web page. Thanks for doing that. He will be missed
by all and thanks to you, those who could not put a name to the face or
the lovely memories that people have been sharing, can now do so.
Thank you once again from the bottom of my heart and many others'.
Lindsay Chartier
##########################################################################
Date: Thu, 07 Aug 1997 16:36:38 -0800
From: Kim Hulbert
Organization: SDSA
Subject: Randy Chisholm & Marquis
There is such grief in our barbershop world right now with the shocking
loss of Randy Chisholm. John and I and our friends have talked of Randy,
the quartets he sang in and the songs he sang every single day. The
tears come so easily. Marquis was the guest quartet on the San Diego SAI
show in 1996, which was also the last official show for High Society.
They did an incredible job and we all formed a lasting bond. It was an
evening none of us is likely to forget.
Randy is what I consider a "singer's singer", a true singer of songs and
lyrics. Marquis' performance of "Midnight Choo Choo" so inspired the San
Diego chorus that we have chosen to sing it at the International
competition in Salt Lake City this October. We hope those of you in
attendance will join us in dedicating that performance to Marquis and to
the memory of Randy Chisholm.
May peace and comfort be with the Chisholm family.
Kim Hulbert
High Society, San Diego SAI
##########################################################################
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 17:12:07 -0500
From: goldmedl@interaccess.com (Giallombardo's Et Al)
Subject: I'll Miss My Hero
I'LL MISS MY HERO
BY ADAM M. WOODS, ILL DIST VP CSLT
Growing up, kids pick and choose their role models and heros in life.
Being around the society since birth and a member since age 12, my views on
heros were completely individual and very different from those of my
friends. While they were mimicking the Ryan Sandburgs, Jim McMahons and
Michael Jordans, I was a little more interested in being like the Joe
Connellys, Chuck Sissons and David Harringtons of the world. As I grew
older my group of heros grew outside the realm of great leads to an
entire group better known as A.I.C. It was these gentlemen whose autographs
I wanted and whose C.D.'s I had to have. It was these quartets who, once I
had my licence and parent permission, I would drive for hundreds of miles to
see their next show. But it was these same heros that were so much
different than those of my friends. My heros were friends also. My heros
loved to shake hands and tell you what was new or sing that tag or whole
song you worked so hard to learn.
In 1995, when I hit my 20th birthday, I thought I had grown out of the
barbershop hero phase. That was until the International Convention in Miami
when a lead like no other walked on the stage. His name was Randy Chisholm.
Sure, I had seen Randy sing before, but on that weekend the beginning of
something special started. Randy wasn't only the nicest person in
barbershop, he was the greatest performer to hit the stage. Like no other,
Randy could walk on a stage and immediately command the attention, respect
and love of the entire audience. From his Al Jolson impression on one knee
to his tear filled eyes on "I will pass this way but once." Randy Chisholm
was the definition of stage presence. Every time I saw Randy perform I knew
my phase of barbershop heros had not ended, but only just begun.
Today I write this in memory of an inspiration. An inspiration not only as
a world class barbershopper, but as a world class person. A person who fed
off the roar of an audience to make the next song even better than the last.
An inspiration who walked into a lobby to meet his adoring fans and had a
bigger smile and longer hug for the 200th person than the second. Randy
Chisholm was and always will be my hero. Randy, I love you and will miss
you always.
[Editor note: Adam Woods is a member of the New Tradition Chorus.]
##########################################################################
From: "Coates, Jim"
Subject: Randy Chisholm's services - very long
Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 12:15:44 -0400
Friends -
I've tried to capture many of the highlights of the services for Randy
last Thursday and Friday, for those of you who could not attend in
person.
The visitation Thursday evening in Miamisburg was scheduled for 6-9 pm.
I got there about 6:15 and the line was already out the door. By 6:30
the line was out the door, down the walk, down the street, and around
the corner beside the building, and it stayed that way for the next
three hours. The last people finally got through the line about 10:45. I
would estimate that over 600 people visited - the number could be much
higher. One of our barbershoppers is friends with the Mayor of
Miamisburg, who said this was the largest gathering of people he had
ever seen there.
As strange as it may sound, it was almost hard to be sad at the funeral
Friday, because there was such an outpouring of joy and celebration of
Randy's life. Sure, many tears flowed - in fact, some of my notes are a
bit smeared. But Randy's love of life and living it to the fullest
lifted us all that day.
The Rev. Stephen Bentley, a childhood friend of Jan's and long-time
acquaintance of Randy, officiated the ceremony, which was attended by
about 350 people. In his opening remarks, he set the tone for the
service by sharing with everyone that Randy knew 'life was something to
embrace, to celebrate, and, yes, to sing about.' Rev. Bentley then
shared some scripture readings of hope with us. We then listened to the
glorious strains of a song from Marquis' latest CD. Hearing Randy, Paul,
Jay, and Dale singing 'With A Song in My Heart' was a reminder of just
how talented Randy was and how much of himself he poured into his music.
After the reading of Randy's obituary, rev. Bentley led us in the Lord's
Prayer. Then the Miami Valley Music Men came to the front of the chapel
to sing. Randy had been directing this chorus for the last eight months,
and their membership had grown over 50% in that time. Under Assistant
Director Hank Shuster, the chorus sang 'Just a Closer Walk With Thee',
with the Cruise Control quartet starting it off.
Society President Tim Hanrahan then shared some wonderful remarks about
Randy and him impact on the Society, calling him 'not only a world class
performer, but also a world class person.' Tim also thanked the rest of
Marquis for their hard work and dedication to the craft in becoming
champions and for carrying themselves so well as champions.
Rev. Mark Blake, lead of current International Champs Yesteryear and a
close personal friend of Randy's for many years, spoke next. Mark's
remarks were so eloquent and wonderful that I tried to capture as much
of them as I could. Mark spoke of his memories of Randy being centered
around his joy, his love, and his celebration of life. He wanted to
speak of three gifts that Randy had given him, all wrapped in the joy of
music and in a barbershop context. He spoke of Randy's Faith - in
giving himself over to a group of coaches and friends and having faith
that they would mold him into what he wanted to become. He spoke of
Randy's Hope - that he always held to the hope that he would achieve
that goal of winning the quartet gold. And he spoke of Randy's Love -
his love of all as brothers and sisters in harmony. Mark mentioned as he
was talking about hope that the closest he ever came to a negative
experience with Randy was in 1995 in Miami Beach as the quartet
announcements were being made. After Nightlife had been announced third,
Mark said his hopes were raised, only to find that Yesteryear had fallen
short by one place to Marquis that year (of course, the way he expressed
it brought a chuckle from the mostly-barbershopper auience.). Mark spoke
of his memories of Yesteryear and Marquis standing in a room together at
a JAD Top Gun school before either of them had won, coaching each other
and helping each other become the best they could be and, ultimately,
helping each achieve their goal of quartet gold. He said that every time
Randy would see him backstage at a contest he would treat him almost as
a son (which he didn't always appreciate - another chuckle), and tell
him that someday soon he would reach his goal. He also shared with us a
memory of riding back with Randy from Middle Bass Island, an annual JAD
barbershop retreat. Mark said that Randy talked for about twenty minutes
telling him how much he loved Mark and his quartet - no coaching, no
instruction, just an outpouring of love from Randy to him. Mark
mentioned that there were three lead singers that he had always tried to
emulate during his barbershop career - Ken Hatton, for his freedom on
stage; Joe Connelly, for his gift of interpretation; and Randy Chisholm,
for his ability to put his heart on his sleeve and for how much he gave
of himself in every performance.
Randy's long-time chorus, Southern Gateway, then came to the front to
sing. Our superb bass soloist, Larry Findlay, opened 'Amazing Grace' for
us (how he got through this I still don't know). First he was joined by
a quartet, and then director Jean Barford brought the rest of the chorus
in to an inspiring conclusion.
Rev. Bentley then reminded everyone how Randy was always out to go for
the gusto, and that he always embraced life with that big bear hug of
his. He did this in all aspects of his life - as a singer, and employee,
a husband, and a father. Rev. Bentley spoke of visiting the site of the
Oklahoma City bombing recently, which has become a national mourning
site. He found a poem there that he felt could bring us comfort. It was
so wonderful that I'm reproducing it here in it's entirety (thanks to
Arnie Appel, a Xenia barbershopper, for capturing it).
----------
AND GOD SAID
I said, 'God, I hurt.'
And God said - 'I know.'
I said, 'God, I cry a lot.'
And God said - 'That's why I gave you tears.'
I said, 'God, I'm so depressed.'
And God said - 'That's why I gave you sunshine.'
I said, 'God Life is so hard.'
And God said - 'That's why I gave you loved ones.'
I said, 'God, my loved one died.'
And God said - 'So did mine.'
I said, 'God, it's such a loss.'
And 'God said, I watched mine nailed to a cross.'
I said, 'But God, Your loved one lives.'
And God said - 'So does yours.'
I said, 'God where are they now?.'
And God said - 'Mine is on my right, and yours is in the light.'
I said, 'God -- it hurts.'
And God said - 'I know.'
-----------
Then, in probably the most emotional moment of the service, Randy's
daughters Erin and Kinsey read a letter they had written to their
father. They wanted everyone to know that although he was great at
singing songs, he was lousy at learning them, and that Erin and Kinsey
had always helped him learn his music and suggest interpretations for
him. They had also written of many other happy memories of him, like
building them sandboxes when they were very little and waking them up at
dawn on Christmas because he couldn't wait to see them open their
presents. They also told him that they were really embarrassed when he
would insist on holding their hands while singing and dancing his way
through aisles in stores. But mostly they thanked him for making them
what they are - strong, confident young women who weren't afraid to face
life and go after the things they want.
For the benediction, Southern Gateway was joined by the Cincinnati Delta
Kings chorus to sing the 'Irish Blessing' under the direction of Randy's
long-time coach and dear friend, Jim Miller. Jim Miller then invited all
barbershoppers in the congregation to join the Gateway, Cincinnati, and
Dayton choruses in going forth to 'Keep the Whole World Singing'. It was
a beautiful, joy-filled ceremony.
The procession to the cemetery was over a mile long, even though many
people remained at the church at the family's request. The graveside
service was short and simple. There was a nice reception when we
returned to the church, with all of us sharing with each other many
wonderful memories of Randy's life. In all, the two days were a just and
fitting celebration of this wonderful man, filled with laughter and
song. I think it's the kind of ceremony Randy would have loved.
We'll miss you, big guy, but we'll never forget you.
Jim Coates
jim.coates@daytonoh.ncr.com