A friend stopped by for dinner tonight and told me that Dan had passed away. I've listened to his music for so long, cherished it in my darkest hours and reveled in it in so many bright moments. I can't remember a time when it wasn't a part of my life. I feel as if I have lost a family member, a true companion, someone who could put voice to all my pain and wonder, my yearnings and uncertainties. I am grateful that  he shared so much  with all of us. He had an immeasurable impact on my life. ~ Tim

Dear Jean and all of Dan's family, I was introduced to Dan's music through friends in the late '70's, early '80's. Here is a wonderful and warm story I have of one of the best songwriters and singers (and true individuals) I've ever had the honor and pleasure of meeting. I had the honor of meeting Dan in the early '80's, and had a wonderful conversation with him at a deli prior to a concert in Vail (I believe it was a Gary Hart promo concert - we all sat on chairs on an ice-covered arena."Leader of the Band" was sung for the first time on this tour as I understand.). Dan was on the road, and he was tired - not quite ready for the concert that night (but we recognized him at the deli anyway). At the time, I worked at a guest ranch near Nederland . I will never forget thanking Dan for his music and its profound effect in my life. He was so wonderful! As he was shaking my hand, he confessed that he had forgotten the words to a song on stage the previous night - It may have been "Leader of the Band," but I'm not sure. Although I will never forget the actual "meeting," what really stood out in my mind and memory was how humorous and "real" Dan was. I didn't ask for his autograph. All I did was thank him. He truly seemed grateful for the gratefulness. How wonderful is that. Anyway, after he told me that he had "spaced" the words to a song on stage, we laughed as we acknowledged that "these things happen." One of the folks with me at the time had a specific Guild guitar that he said Dan really liked. As a result, I have been playing my own Guild (a Sunburst model) since I found one in the early '90's - always with Dan's beautiful smile and laughter in my mind. Some things we never forget. And I shall never forget all the emotion and love that I have felt when listening to and singing Dan's incredible music. My spiritual beliefs can't bring me to say "Rest in Peace" because, I believe that Dan's incredible soul is simply moving on to more amazing venues. I am blessed for having known Dan's music, and having met this warm soul for myself. Such joy. Dear Jean and the rest of your family: As much as you are hurting right now, please know that there are so many of us who are sending you peace, harmony, and love. All is well. Blessings and peace ~ Kathy Tremblay - New
Hampshire

One of the true artist that changed my life with joy and beauty. ~ Greg Beyerl

Where do I begin? My love for music began in the 70's with my very first favorite album Souvenirs. Truly the beginning of my love for Dan, his music, and the realization of what music can do for one's soul. I sit here now and listen to your music, with tears in my eyes, knowing the loss we now endure. I am so lucky to have seen Dan live, once in Vegas and once here at home in Boise. The world is a better place with Dan's music which will live on....live on Dan, forever. ~ Carol - Boise, Idaho.

Dear Jean, family and friends, I was deeply saddened to read of Dan's death since I was so hopeful that he would be okay.  We have truly lost a beautiful writer and musician, but heaven has gained a soul that seemed very much in touch with the wonders and beauty of God's earth and also of the nature of people. Over the years I had the opportunity to see Dan perform several times and now I share his music with my husband and children; one child having been brought into this world listening to Dan's music in the birthing room.  His music will live on in my heart and in my home for as long as I am able. ~ Cherie Arnold - Wildwood, Missouri

Dan and family, I had the awesome thrill of attending four of your concerts here in Colorado. You are and will always be a " living legacy". May you rest in peace my friend. May the Lord bless you and keep you. Thank you for all the memories. You will be missed. Sincerely ~ James Munsey

Dear Jean and family, we were deeply saddened to hear of the loss of such a gifted,eloquent and beautiful human being.  Dan's words and music touched our  lives like no other: for this we are so grateful.  Please find comfort in knowing we will never forget him. Sincerely ~  Peter and Lorraine Brasch - Lincoln, RI

Many years ago, when I was 18, I was introduced to Nether Lands.  I wore the record out bought the cassette tape, and later, the CD, and everything else you ever did.  My father was a professional musician, and so "Leader of
the Band" strikes a familiar chord.  Music is a gift that no one can ever take away, and the one thing you can carry with you into Heaven.  God bless you for the many lives you touched and the brave and inspirational battle you fought.  L. Cash - Dawsonville, GA

My condolences to the family of Dan Fogelberg.  Dan truly touched my life with his music. ~ Gary Luckenbaugh

Dear Fogelberg family, you have so much to be proud of. It's such a rare accomplishment in life to have achieved the place in so many hearts Dan's music has. He is my favorite musician.I have more of his music, bought on vinyl starting in '78 and continuing on to CD's just five days ago, than anyone else. What a loss for us all and especially for you, his family.  My deepest condolences.  His music will stay with us.  ~ Dev - Northbrook, IL

I am in total shock. I have been working with musicians over the past  year, promoting guitars.  I have also been promoting music.  As a  child, I adored Dan's music. The news that he had passed hit me much like  another musician I have always adored, John Denver.  I work on several  music threads where we were all devastated from hearing the news.  I lost  my younger brother when I was 20 years old and he was 19.  We never get  over that pain, we just learn how to live with it. I have also worked in healthcare for over a decade. To Dan and his family, I can  feel your pain and have shed many tears.  Primarily due to the fact that  his music was amongst the first my parents would ever let me own.  He had  good lyrics, good music, and he was a great man.  He will be missed. God bless you all ~ Mark A.  Mayr

Two things to thank Dan for: First, your concert at Merriweather Post Pavilion Maryland circa 1977; and second, when I met my wife Janet in Alaska in 1981. She wrote the words down to "Looking For a Lady" and asked me to sing them to her every night. I still do. ~ Ed

Dear Jean,  we don't know each other, but my heart and sympathy go to you this day. Blessed Be to you and your family. I am grievously sorry for your, and the worlds loss of such a wonderful man. Peace to you ~ Kris Kaiser - Hermosa Beach, CA

As a long time fan of his it saddens to here of his passing and as will many others, I too will miss him. It brings me great comfort knowing that he will always be with us through his music. God bless you all. A fan always ~ Bill Kinderman - Denver, CO.

I went through my high school years listening to the music of Dan  Fogelberg. His music inspired me deeply and helped me get through a lot of rough  times. I heard the news yesterday (Monday) evening as I was driving to see a friend that I hadn't seen for almost a year. How ironic, it was my best friend  from high school. It was on the radio that I heard this sad news. I feel as if a very  special part of me has gone away. It left an emptiness inside of me which I now fill with the memories of listening to Dan's music day in and day out as I tried to follow  along while playing guitar. I will never forget the peace and serenity I felt as I watched  and listened to his music at a live concert. Such a beautiful man. Such a beautiful soul. I will miss you Dan and I will forever hold on to the  awesome memories you have helped me to create in my life.  I pray that God will comfort his wife, family and all the friends  and fans he is leaving behind. God less you all. ~ Rosa Basnueva

My heart felt sympathy goes out to Jean as well as Dan's family.  The world lost a one of a kind soul.  His music and lyrics are stories so many people can connect to,I for one.  He could touch you with his songs and make you feel what he was talking about.  There is an art in being able to achieve that with so many people.  The loss of this man is a great one.  Thoughts and prayers are with the Fogelberg family at this time. ~ Danna a devoted fan from Texas.

Dan Fogelberg's album Souvenirs helped me face my teenage years with an out let... to sing female back up to his songs alone in my bedroom. Thank you. Always remembered: a poet with a guitar. ~ KC

The last two days have been among the saddest of my life. I was first introduced to Dan when my best friend bought his Souvenirs album, simply because of the picture on the cover. He was the most beautiful man we had ever seen. We soon learned that he wasn't "just another pretty face" but that he had the voice of an angel & his lyrics seemed to come from our very souls. I used to sing "Stars" to my babies as I rocked them to sleep. There will never be another who will touch my life like Dan did. My prayers are with Jean & his family. Take comfort in knowing the Heavenly choir has a new & perfect angel to be the "Leader of the Band." ~ Joy - St Charles, MO.

August 9, 2003, my dad passed from the same insidious disease that took Dan. This cuts me to the core. For me it's an empty feeling. I wish all the best to Danny's close family, his wife Jean, and DF's closest friends, who have had
to suffer along with him. Peace be with you all. What a musician. ~ Steve, Barb and Megan

Dan's music was a big part of my life from the first time I heard his music back in the 70's.  I learned to play and sing some songs and was often deeply moved by his impeccable craft of lyrics and music.  I'll never forget taking my daughter to see him in concert at Meadowbrook and singing along, with a few thousand others, to "The Reach" and "There's A Place in the World for A Gambler."  I admired Dan as a musician, and a fellow traveler making his way through love and life. God speed you Dan, to the heart of God.  You'll be missed here on earth, but heaven's choir has a wonderful voice in it today.  My prayers are with Dan's family and friends. ~ Charles Dietzel

My heart felt thanks for sharing your gift of song. Blessings to your family.  I continue to be reminded of the title song in Wild Places, "Ever On." Where ever you are Dan may the "trail rise up to meet you." Sincerely ~ Tom

Dan you will be greatly missed. I have probably attended over 25 concerts and I can't believe I won't be able to see you play again. College in the late 70's was great and while my friends were listening to Free Bird I would sneak away and mellow out to some great Fogelberg tunes. I have read many of the comments since your passing and the stories are a great trip back in time. You have left a great void. Rest in peace.

Dear Jean, I have been a fan of Dan's since as long as I can remember.  I have spent many nights listening to him or playing his music on my guitar. We have always vacationed in Maine and every trip we have to play" The Reach" as we are driving along the coast.  He was an incredible inspiration to me.  I started listening to him in high school and have never stopped.  I saw him in concert every time he came to town and I will never forget Carnegie Hall in 1979.  He came out in a tux and just filled the auditorium with beautiful music.  It was hard to believe there was only one person playing. I always felt that that was a special concert for him.  I can still feel the energy in the room when I think about that show.  He ended of course with "There's A Place In the World for a Gambler" and we all swayed in time with our lights shining bright.  He is now shining bright up in the sky singing with the angels.  How lucky they are to have him and how lucky we were to have had him touching our lives.  My prayers go out to you and your family.  The world has lost a special voice but you all have lost so much more.  May you find peace in the days that lie ahead. ~ Annie B - New Hampshire

Jean,  to you and your family my deepest condolences.  Living up here in Canada we don't always get all the news we should and I had no idea that Dan was diagnosed with prostate cancer.  So it was with total shock that I heard the news on the radio yesterday morning.  I too lost my husband (to colon cancer) at age 56 also.  I will pray for you and your family and know that you will be at peace sometime in the future.  I know that Dan will hear my prayers when I say that I truly loved his music.  It touched me and said what I could not.  Thank you Dan and thank you Jean.  May God be with you. ~ Sandra

Jean and family, I honor you in your time of grief. I feel compelled to tell you  however that throughout my teenage years it was Dan's music that I hung onto for  strength,.hope and courage. I am sure I am only one of many who share with you in  his loss. I still have and play his music when I need the comfort of his voice  and lyrics. May God Bless and keep you. He will be missed. ~ Jane Sullivan - Noblesville,IN

To Dan's family: My deepest heartfelt sympathy is extended to each of you in your loss. As mentioned by many others, Dan's music touched many lives including mine. I feel really sad that he is gone.I pray that he is now blessing the heavenly angels with the joy of his song.  His powerful voice and the beautiful way he wrote his songs will never be forgotten. He had a way of touching mind, spirit, soul. God bless each of you as you journey through this difficult time. God bless you, Jean, for your diligence, love and care of Dan who was such a blessing to so many. You have been and will continue to be blessed abundantly as time goes on. ~ Evie Ball (Summerville, SC)

I am deeply saddened by his passing.  I grew up listening to his music  and having the great honor of seeing him perform in concert numerous times, at  Westbury Music fair and The Jones Beach Theater.  I always came away with a  sense of peacefulness, and feeling comforted.   When my brother began to learn to play the piano, at a later age,  the first song he learned for his enjoyment was "To The Morning."  Dan  Fogelberg was the one and only one, that my brother and I had a mutual  love of his music.  Be comforted in knowing that he lives on in his music. He  left a wonderful mark on this earth for all to enjoy. Also know that he is protecting you and is all around you forever.  He is never far  away.  God bless you. Sincerely ~ Susan Fox ( Long Island,  NY)

In 1972 I heard "Part of the Plan" on the radio.  I was only 12, but it spoke to me in a way that no song had before.  That began my long and deep love and appreciation of Dan Fogelberg's music and lyrics, both of which have helped me through the joyful, tearful and emotional life that I have lived thus far.  I was so saddened to hear of his death. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends.  The world has lost one of the great artists--those that come along only now and again, but leave the world a better place by giving it so much of their energy, creativity, and essence.  Prayers to all who knew him. ~ Ann R. - Milwaukee, WI.

I have so much appreciated Dan Fogelberg's music over the years.  So often, he had a way of saying the very things that I was feeling. Growing up in the turbulent 60's and 70's, it seemed so hard to navigate the generational differences and relationship issues that existed between a son and his father.  Through his music, Dan helped to distill the real thoughts and feelings that I have for my dad despite our differences.  "The Leader of the Band" for me was a pure expression of a deep and abiding affection that a son has for his father when he realizes that we are not all that far apart.  I have often wondered how many people tear up a bit as they reflect on the gift of having a loving father as they listen to that song.  Many thanks, Dan. ~ Steve Holley - Burke VA

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Celebrate the life of this wonderful man. His music was an inspiration to us all. I know he is enjoying the reunion with his father and other loved ones in heaven. The Lord has accepted him in His house to dwell forever. ~ Keith Blank and family

I am truly saddened by Dan's loss, but a part of him will live on in all of us every time we hear his music.  Best wishes in this time of sorrow.

I was deeply saddened to hear of Dan's passing.  As a child, my mother often played Dan's music and I grew to love his work, especially The Innocent Age.  My mom and I were lucky enough to see him live in about 1999.  He had a beautiful voice and was a poignant storyteller.  Now, I will try to pass on the legacy of his music to my children. May God bless your family at this difficult time.  Take comfort in knowing that Dan and his music touched many lives. ~ Jill - Ohio

I was so saddened by the news of Dan's passing.  I have been a fan since 1975.  The world will truly miss a wonderful, talented artist.  My sympathies are extended to his wife Jean and family. ~ Donna Scally

As so many beautiful singers before you, it is now time to sing with the angels and you truly have the voice to harmonize with the most accomplished angel their will be in heaven. Till we meet. Keep the faith. ~ John Ottawa - Ontario Canada

Dear Dan, Thanks for your music, thanks for being there, thanks for everything. May your soul rest in God's peace. ~ Charlie -The Netherlands.

I cannot put into words what I am feeling right now. Dan, you will be greatly missed but as long as I can hear your voice you have not left us. Thank you for all the songs and lyrics that you gave us. You are and always will be my favorite artist. Every album that you produced correlated with a special stepping stone in my life. I drew courage from
your songs. Thank you so much. Jean, my thoughts and prayers for you and yours. ~ Mary Eagan -Iowa

Dan's staying power and success over the years validates the statement that he was one of the truly great, gifted musicians that have walked the Earth. His music will live on in my library, but will be treasured in my mind and heart. He's was the best. My prayers go out to his wife, family, and friends.  I truly wish I could have met him to personally thank him for what he did and how he did it. ~Cliff

I was greatly grieved tonight to tears as my husband gently told me that Dan Fogelberg had passed away this morning in Maine. Dan's music will live forever in my husband and my lives.The album Souvenirs was listened by us on many of our dates together. We of course still listen very, very often to his music today on CD's and had been thinking and praying for his health. since we heard he acquired the cancer. I recently lost my cousin at the age of 51 just this past October to cancer.  My cousin too so enjoyed Dan's music. Our prayers go out to the families of Dan and so grateful that he made the music that he did. He lives on through that of course. Remembering Dan in Ohio ~ Patty Lowery

I'm a 16 year old Japanese boy. And I liked some classic rock. Even a boy like me knows the greatness of his songs. He is something. Lord please listen to his amazing songs and touch the kindness and bravery of him. Then you will know the man whom the humans just have lost. ~ Kensuke ISHII - Tokyo,Japan.

Being one enormous Dan fan, I met Dan in  the very late 70's after a concert in Dallas. We hung out with him and his band for many hours after the show - just sitting around talking and laughing; not wild and crazy, just a wonderful time with a gracious and supremely talented man.  I am honored that I got to meet him, and even more honored that his music defined a major part of my life.  I am still very sad at his passing, and can't listen to the music yet without getting choked up. Bless his family and wife, and thank you Dan, for keeping us entertained. Please know how much you will be missed. ~ Jamie in Dallas

Thanks for the beautiful music that you left behind.  We will remember you with affection and awe. ~ Joni Bowers & family

"Between the worlds of men and make-believe I can be found"  ~  "Scarecrow's Dream." Dan Fogelberg was and is my single biggest musical influence. Hearing news of his passing this morning made my heart sink like losing a member of my own family.  His gift of music and lyrics had an immeasurable influence on my life and career.  I too am a singer-songwriter and composer, and it is largely because of Dan's influence.  His music connected with my heart in a way that no one else's really had, before or since.  I never got to see him on concert, but I do own most everything he ever released. It seems like I am grasping for words here and I really am, because I am stunned at the news this morning.  When you grow up with a person and their work has such a profound influence on you, it's difficult to say the least to deal with it.  In a way, I think of his songs as my friends. I sympathize and resonate with all of his other fans the world over, and add my voice to the chorus paying tribute to this man and his work.  My prayers are with Dan's family and close friends.  Thank you Dan for your music and your voice. To quote another songwriter - Don McLean - "this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you". ~ God bless ~ Ryan Sheeler - Ames IA

Just a line to say how much I enjoyed Dan's music through the years. My thoughts & prayers go out to you all. First heard him in 1972. My sister had an album that I had never heard before & I gave it a listen one day only to find a song that I had heard but had no idea who had done it. What a blessing it was to find out it was Dan & have been hooked ever since on his music. The song was "The River." One of the most powerful songs I've ever heard still to this day. He will be missed & I will always keep enjoying Dan's music. Sincerely ~ Walt

Dear Dan: I have often thought of your line from "Ghosts": "Death is there to keep us honest and constantly remind us we are free." I am saddened by your leaving but feeling that freedom so strongly today.  God Bless ~ Jim K. also from Illinois.

Like many, Dan's voice was an important one in my life. My deep thanks to him for that. And for Jean, a quote that has comforted me and that I hope will comfort you: "Death ends a life, not a relationship." Peace to you in these hard days. ~ Patti Digh - Asheville, NC

My deepest condolences to Jean and the family. There is no doubt Dan will rest in peace. He knew it well.  ~ Ron from Colorado. "I thank you for the music and your stories of the road."

I was so sorry to hear about this loss.  I am 35 years old and can't remember back to any part of my life where I did not have Dan Fogelberg playing in the background.  My parents had his records and then his cassettes, and I eventually had his cd's.   He was one of those singers that just brought many emotions and much peace when listening to him.  He will be missed, but his music will play on in my home and I know that when my kids are older they will, too, recall the songs of Dan Fogelberg.  My prayers and thoughts go out to the family in this difficult time.  May I suggest reading "How to Survive the Loss of a Love", as it helped me understand the process of grieving better when I lost my dad too early. ~ Jamie Sauer - Austin, Texas

To Jean and Dan's family, my wife and I thank you so much for sharing Dan for so many years. His contribution to our lives and others will live on forever. We dated to his music in the 70's got married with his music and never stopped listening. One day we will all join Heaven's "Captured Angel" and once again live with the voice the music and talent of the greatest singer/songwriter of our time, Dan Fogelberg. God Bless you Dan, and may he watch over Jean & the all of your family. ~ Karen & Erik de Jonge - New Orleans

I loved his music, I was so sorry to hear this news.   We listen to Christmas music on lite fm at work and his "Same Old Lang Syne" comes on all the time. ~ Ellen

My sincere condolences to Jean and her family with the passing of Dan Fogelberg. Dan touched my life several years ago with his song"Leader of the Band."  Through Dan, I heard myself  saying things I could not put into words with my father. After listening to the song, using many of the lyrics, I penned a letter to my dad explaining what he meant to me.  I sent the letter along with the song to my father for his birthday.  My father has since passed but my mother told me how much this meant to him.  God bless Dan and his family for you will never know how he touched me. ~ R.J. Vidimos - Ames, Iowa

I've been playing Dan's Greatest Hits over and over since I heard he had passed. My favorite song, "Same Old Lang Syne" is now embedded in my heart and soul. I can't even imagine what your wife and family must be going through as you can see by all of the writings of condolences from all of your fans and what we are feeling. You will be sorely missed. I was the same age as you and thought you were one of the most beautiful men I've ever seen and heard. I wasn't lucky enough to see you perform like a lot of the other writings I've read, but I just want you to know that we were all so lucky to have such a brilliant artist touch our lives the way you, Dan Fogelberg did. Dan, like your father, you are the "Leader of the Band." Peace be with you and your family ~ Linda from Colorado

My prayers are with the family. I have thought about him a lot since I heard about his passing. My husband and I adored his music, in fact it is something that we always talked about that he was our music. I personally think that his lyrics were so thoughtful and spiritual and he was an inspiration, because I loved beautiful words and songs. He inspired the writer in me. We will truly miss his music and my prayers go out to the family because he must have been a very special person. Sincerely yours ~ Cindy Dirks

My deepest sympathy to his wife Jean. My husband has advanced prostate cancer so I am very much aware of the battle Dan fought. God bless him and his wonderful music and my prayers are with his family. Sincerely ~ Pat Cox

Dear friends, Nothing I can say can match the eloquence and grandeur of Dan's words and music.  I will only add that if not for him, we would all still be here but, less graceful and less forgiving people.  There would also be a void in our lives that we just couldn't fill, understand or comprehend.  Thank you Dan for filling that void in my life and helping me understand. Love ~ Howard

Dear Jean, I feel for you deeply.  He seemed the most happy with you.  I wandered onto his property the summer of 82 with my guitar and songs I wrote with the crazy illusion that his inspiration for me might help me get a record deal.  I was quickly ushered off the Nederland property by some caretakers.  Anyway, that was when I was young and stupid.  However, Dan's music changed my life;caused me to write and perform to this day.  I am 47, and will always love my youth and memories inspired by his great talents.  He sure touched a lot of people.  It was obvious his un quantifiable love for you. So sorry ~ Mark Steiner

It's just not the Christmas season until I hear "Same Old Lang Syne". The words & melody still stop me no matter what I'm doing, and take me to that parking lot. I am very sad to hear of Dan Fogelberg's death; he is a big part of my musical upbringing (being a child of the 70's). God Bless his wife & family.. may we all do our part to make cancer disappear. ~ Tricia - NY

It is with a heavy heart that my wife and I write this.  We both love Dan's music and it has become a cherished element of our marriage.  Dan  will be missed by his family but also by the thousands who felt they knew him through his wonderful lyrics and those who felt a special blessing to see him on stage. ~ Ann & Dan

Dan inspired me to start piano as an adult, seeing him many times in and near central Ohio. His music will live on and keep my heart warm when I play or hear it.  Thanks for being a part of so many memories. Love and peace to all of  his family, friends, and to all of us that had the most respect for a gifted man.  from Southbank

Rest in peace Dan. May your spirit soar in the heart of those who knew you well...and in those who wish they knew you better.

Wow.  I must say, that for a man we never met, we are very sad to hear of his passing.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all Dan's loved ones.  So many will miss him, and be saddened to think there will be no more of the wonderful music that has touched our lives for so many years.  His music is timeless, and much of it will continue to be heard at weddings and other  events forever, as it was at ours nearly 25 years ago.  A truly beautiful legacy. Thank you Dan, for gifts shared, and a library that will continue to give forever. ~ Peter and Valerie D.