I am so sorry to hear of his passing. His music and lyrics are so beautiful
and have touched my heart and soul for so many years. He will be sadly
missed.
~ Barbara from Wisconsin
Dear Jean and Fogelberg family, on Monday morning (12.17.07) we awoke to the
radio news announcing Dan's passing. I heard a door to my youth close.
Dan's music was a mainstay in my life for so many years. Thank God we have
his music available for our daughter to enjoy. Within a matter of a few
hours, our phone was ringing with friends calling us, asking if we had heard
the news. It seems that we all shared the same joy in who he was as a
person.and the messages in his music. We all mourn this loss of a great
human being and talented songwriter. Please know that we share in your
mourning and pray that you receive peace in all these condolences that you
have received. ~ P.D. Yoko - Murfreesboro, TN
He will truly be missed. My wife and I were just talking about him last week. I
have enjoyed his music FOREVER it seems like. ~
Kent Bartley -
Graham, NC
I have been a fan since I was a high school student in Illinois in the 70s.
Dan's music touched my heart and soul. His Spirit lives on. Thank you,
Dan, for sharing your gift of music with the world.
~ Lori Baer - Tempe, Arizona
So sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. I have been a fan of his music since my
husband introduced me to his work when we first met thirteen years ago. I had
never heard of him before, but soon became a fan, and his poetry touched me
many times. He will be greatly missed, and I send my condolences to his
family. How lucky they are to have known him. ~
Avril Watson
It is a sad day in the loss of Dan's life, but we are all so fortunate to
have had his music bring so much pleasure to our life over the years and in
the years to come. God Bless you Dan, and give your family peace. ~ Susan
from Phoenix, AZ
Dan left an incredible legacy of music to those of us he never knew.
His message, "now for the sermon" is right on and needs to be "sung" to all
that will listen too.
No words seem adequate to console your loss but know that you are in the
prayers of many whom you will never know.
(My wife and I set our appointments with our oncologist for the same day at
Beth Israel Deaconess in Boston so we understand how tough the battle can
be.)
Peace.
"The snow turned in to rain.." gives me goose bumps every time I hear it
played. I am so thankful to have had the chance to see him live in 1992 in
Raleigh, NC at the Walnut Creek Amphitheater. He is one of the greatest
artist and truly a great "Leader of the Band." Thank the Lord above for his
recordings we have to enjoy after his leaving. God bless his family. We
love you and we loved his music.
The "Leader of the Band" is gone. He will be missed sorely. My thoughts
and prayers to Jean and the rest of the family.
Thank You ~
Barry Patrick
Dear Dan,
Thanks for the wonderful "legacy" you left behind with your beautiful music and outstanding lyrics. It wouldn't be Christmas unless you heard "Same Old Lang Syne" on the radio at this time of year. God rest your soul ~ Oiche mhaith. Brendan, Glenties Ireland.
Thank you for sharing your husband with the world. Love you ~
Karen
I was born in 1951, grew up in Muncie, Indiana. I first heard Dan's music on
my first trip to California in 1975. A few years later, after settling in
Albuquerque, I used to listen to him a lot while doing calligraphy and
making art. I feel like I have lost an old friend.
There's a candle burning on my altar for Dan. My heart goes out to you,
Jean, and the rest of the family. The world has lost a rare man; Heaven has
gained a beautiful soul. His Love and his Spirit lives on. . .
I will keep you in my prayers ~ Alison Owens -
Albuquerque
I was just a teenager going through tough times when I found Dan’s music and
it touched me. I became a fan in the era when he made the Souvenirs album
and still am. I am so sorry to hear he lost his battle to cancer as such a
young age. Through his music you could tell he was a wonderful person with a
great heart. Sometimes I question life but only God knows his plan and
although he will be missed he will live on through his works and will always be
with you in your heart. ~ Donna in Tennessee
Dear Jean,
Please accept my condolences for your loss.
As with so many of us, Dan's music touched me in a way that no other artist has. It
doesn't seem possible that The Innocent Age came out over 25 years ago. The music moved me to
tears, many times over. Dan spoke to me as he did so many of our generation.
May you find peace in the coming years.
To say that his music made an impact is an understatement. As a 58 year old, his
lyrics helped me mature in ways that I couldn't have done without his sensitive
song writing.
The lyrics to "Longer" helped solidify my relationship with my wife of 34 years:And, the "Leader of the Band" through the years has helped me realize the frailty of an aging Father, and to seize the moment to show him affection while I still am blessed to have him.
Dan, thank you for what you have done and the inspiration and gentleness your lyrics taught some of us to have. You and others like you "gave us permission" to be men with sensitivity and some gentleness.
May God bless your family at this time of loss, and ease their pain, and may your legacy continue to be an impact to others like it is to me.
You will always get "air time" in my house and car. ~
Chuck Conner
I personally love Dan's music. He had such a pure, angelic voice. Surely the angels are rejoicing to have him rejoin the ultimate choir.
With deepest, heartfelt sympathy to this wonderful mans' family. ~
Charlea Vicki Grinnell
I was serenaded, by my husband, in the washroom of his apartment in college,
with Dan's songs and lyrics. Your lyrics and songs were full of life.
They took us to Colorado in 1982 were we made our home. After leaving
Colorado for some 10 years we recently moved back to the wonderful state and
drove to Nederland with memories of Dan from our times passed in Colorado.
We talked to locals who told us he had moved away years ago. But for us his
spirit and songs will always be part of our Colorado mountains. Dan you have a small place in our
heaven when we take in the high peaks of this beautiful state. Thanks for
inspiring us to love, to hold and to still be together after ALL these
years.
We will return to your beloved mountains and play your songs in our jeep
forever. ~ John and Susanne Wood
Dan's music is his legacy. His music has helped us fulfilled our "Part
of the Plan." Through his music we have been able to live our lives
more fully and completely. Can you possibly think what life would have
been like without his spirited music ? Through his music, his spirit
lives on with us as his "Voice for Peace" goes "Ever On."
My deepest sympathies for Dan's family.
Dan had a way of touching peoples souls through his music. More than any
other contemporary artist. Dan helped define those confusing stages of my
life in discovering love and it's insecurities as a young man. Along with
thousands of others, I share your loss and will miss the prospect of more
poetry from him. ~
Frank Vehlewald,
Age 39 -
St. Louis, MO/Austin, TX
I always appreciated your music and performance.
We send our condolence to the family. May God's grace touch your needs.
I was so shocked and stunned to hear of Dan's passing. All my heart goes out to his family and friends now. Also to his many, many fans around the globe, I'm sure they are just as sad as I am right now.
I have been a fan for many years, and I have every one of Dan's records. His music is the kind you never tire of, and no matter what mood you're in there is always a "Dan song" that will fit it.
Some people are just too good to stay on earth, and I guess heaven needed another glorious voice at this time. I only hope and pray that Dan wasn't suffering much from his disease.
Luckily we have all his music to comfort us now. In one of is songs he asked "how do we make love stay?" Well, Dan did it by making all that great music, writing all those wonderful lyrics and singing them with conviction and a sincerity, that is rare among artists. This music will stay with us forever and will "keep it from dying away" - his memory that is.
My very best wishes to you Jean, I couldn't possibly even begin to imagine how this feels for you. But if it's any comfort at all; Please remember that Dan's music brought a lot of feelings and emotions to a lot of people through the years.
He was one of a kind - he was the best there ever was.
I really can't write any more - my eyes are too filled with tears to see the keyboard...
All my love and eternal admiration. ~
Stian M. Eriksen - Oslo/Norway
Rest in Peace, Dan. The choir in Heaven just gained the beautiful voice
of a beautiful soul. ~
Judy Howell - Laguna Hills, CA
Dan, we'll all miss you but your memory will live in our hearts
forever. ~ Cattle Prod Band - Houston, TX
To the family of Dan Fogelberg,
Words cannot express the sadness I feel. Dan Fogelberg's music got me through
many heartaches growing up. He had such a way with words that you just felt
comforted. He will be deeply missed.
Sincerely ~ Denise Velasquez
My heart is breaking over the loss of Dan Fogelberg. During those angst filled
teenage years during high school and college in the late 70s and early
80s,whenever I would feel sad and depressed, I would put on one of his LPs,
listen to his beautiful words, haunting melodies and beyond, compare harmonies
and my spirits would lift. I feel like I have lost a cherished friend. His
music and words will continue to comfort me till the end of my days. My
deepest condolences to Jean and his family on their overwhelming loss. ~ Sandi - Gilbert, AZ
I'm very saddened to hear of the passing of DF. His music was truly an inspiration to me. I am almost 50 and have been trying to learn the song "Sand & the Foam" on my guitar for about 20 years. Obviously, I'm no musician, but I do understand how music soothes the soul, and that is exactly what Dan's music does for me. His musical and ecological legacy will forever live on and his foot impressions will never be erased from the beaches. I will miss him as I do the late John Denver. Their music will inspire me for the rest of my days, Thank you DF...
When I was 15 years old, my sister left for college. This was the first time we had ever really been apart from each other and she called me several times a week just to fill me in on college life. Several weeks in, she called me VERY excited about a concert she had attended. She wanted me to hear a song from the album she had purchased because she thought this was absolutely one of the best vocalists she had ever heard. On hearing the song (can't remember which one), I exclaimed on his beautiful voice and asked his name. She stated "Dan Fogelberg and I know he's going to hit it big". This is one of my favorite memories of life. The world has lost a beautiful and talented soul. Godspeed ~ Kim Cater - Easley, SC
Dan, you never knew me but I felt as though I knew you, at least a
little. Thanks for all the great music that contributed to my life in
so many ways for so long. Your words and music moved me. I hope you
are at peace. My thoughts are with your family as I send my thanks to
them for sharing you. We will all miss you. ~ Mark Pike - Streetsboro,
Ohio
I cannot believe it ... but I'll have to. God, welcome Dan to heaven.
He's
one of the finer things you sent to this world. We'll never forget him. ~
Peter
Our love, condolences and prayers are with Jean, and family.
Dan had a voice of the angels. His songs sparked our spirits and we are ever
grateful for his music and his presence on this earth.
Thank you Dan, with all our hearts.
Blessings to you Jean... ~
Janie Harris and Family
Jean: I read about Dan's passing in the newspaper and never thought to see if he had a
website or not until too late - His music sang to my soul. I am so sorry for your loss. ~ Polly
I had the opportunity to hear Dan perform at the Chastain Amphitheater in
Atlanta,
Georgia. He was wonderful and I am so sorry for your loss. His legacy will continue to
inspire and enrich all. ~
Teresa Sheppard
May your Father in heaven hold you with strong arms; May Jesus give you His peace that passes understanding; And may the Holy Spirit sustain you with hope.May the God of all life keep you always in the shelter of His love.This is my prayer for you... Dan you were truly one of the greats, your songs will touch those you left behind forever. Rest well in the Lords arms my friend. ~
Keith Browning - Wooster Ohio
My brother sang "Longer" at my wedding 27 years ago. Two years ago he had
prostate cancer surgery and this past September I had the same surgery. Dan
was always a favorite. Now, he is an inspiration. God bless him for the
smiles and tears he has brought me. He will be in my memory and I will tell
his story. ~
Marc Jolley -
Macon, Georgia
How sad to hear of the passing of such a gentle and courageous man. The lasting words and melodies that flowed from this minstrel's soul will leave behind a legacy that hopeful hearts behold
My prayers are with Jean during this deep loss. ~
Mark, Glastonbury - CT
He really touched my life through his songs. God Bless his soul.
A beautiful man that made beautiful music. Every word to every song had
meaning and substance.
It took everything I had to hold back the tears in work yesterday.
"Same Old Lang Syne " came on the radio. While it first put a big
smile on my face, as I started singing along... I could feel the tears
building up. I pray that he is watching over Jean and comfortable among the Angels.
Prayers are heading your way Jean.
Miss you Dan. ~
Cathy in NJ
It was with such sadness that I Iearned the news of Dan's passing. Taken so
young and with so much more to offer and get out of life, it seems unfair.
Though I never saw him live as he never played any concerts in the UK, his
music has been a part of my life since the 70s and will continue to be so for
the rest of my life. Over the years, I have introduced his music to many
people, including my immediate family, and feel my life has been enriched by his
songs, both lyrically and musically. My heartfelt sympathy is sent to Jean
and all Dan's family and while it is probably little comfort, I hope it will
help you a little to know that many of us around the world are thinking of you
and sharing your grief. For me, it has been all the harder as yesterday my
Mother was diagnosed with cancer - at 88 it is likely to be one of slow
progress but nonetheless, still devastating.
With our deepest condolences and love ~
Lauretta and family in England
My prayers go out to Dan's friends and family as his passing is truly a
great loss for all who listened to his songs of poetic lyrics and earthy
guitar. He has been with me through much of my life's journey with so
many emotions, namely loved ones. His voice and music will always be
remembered and missed. ~ Doug Ford - FL
The Earthly music world is a bit more silent today as it has lost a powerful
voice.
But Heaven's Angel Choir has gained a new voice.
Thank you for all you gave to us.
My prayers for your family. ~
Mary Hite
I have been (not so) secretly in love with Dan since Nether Lands. It breaks my heart to know that I'll never hear his voice or see him on stage ever again. He will truly be missed. My deepest condolences to Jean and his family. ~
Patty, NJ
Words cannot express how devastating the news of your passing was to me. I have grown up listening to your beautiful voice and have been inspired by your songs and lyrics since I was a young woman. I saw you in concert in New York City and was moved to tears when you sang solo with just your amazing voice and guitar. You have always been a part of the poet in me and will continue to remain in my soul as an inspiration to write and believe in what lives in our hearts and desires. Nothing will ever compare to you. May you rest in peace knowing you have truly touched the lives of so many who adored you. I will keep your wife, family, and friends in my thoughts and prayers. ~ Wendy M. - Charlottesville, VA
Thank you for the artistry, passion, understanding, empathy, smiles and
tears your music and lyrics have allowed me to experience through the years.
One of my "un-fulfilled" dreams was to visit America and see you in concert.
Instead I can now only light a candle for you and in knowing that you have
passed. Your music and songs, in future will be enjoyed from a different
perspective. ~
Paul de Klerk (55) ~ South Africa.
I feel compelled to write and express my feelings on the loss of Dan Fogelberg. I have been feeling his music in my head for more than a week. I have loved his music since I was in high school in the 70's and continue to find comfort in the sound of his voice. When mentioning to my significant other my hearing his music in my head for more than a week, he said I should look him up on the web.
To see the news that he had passed made me cry. The loss of another gentle soul and wonderful musician. My significant other finds it odd that I was feeling close to Dan, even if it was through his music, and feels that we must have been from the same soul group. My complete sympathies and love to his loved ones and fans, He will be greatly missed. ~ Mary Guenther
Some of the greatest music ever. He was truly an integral part of my life
for many years. We all hoped he would defeat this terrible disease. I
had one wish, to see him perform one more time . A complete entertainer
and I will never forget his talent. God Speed Dan ~ GJS
He was my hero. ~ Terry - Houston Texas
As a musician I was entranced by Dan's music from the first time I heard him on the radio in 1972. I immediately bought Souvenirs and subsequently bought all his albums as they came out. Every time someone asks me to perform a Fogelberg song in the future it will be even more poignant.
Thank you Dan for all the memories and may God bless and keep you and give peace and comfort to your family.
Rise up on wings of eagles minstrel ~ Ron Elmore - Nashville, TN
It is with tears in our hearts we learn of your passing .This is the saddest
news I've heard in a very long time. Your music will live forever. I Love you
Dan Fogelberg and will miss you so very much.Thanks for sharing your gift. ~ P.Britten - Australia
All week long, Dan's music and voice has been playing in my head like an
endless tape. I am deeply saddened by his passing, and my heart goes out to
Jean and the rest of his family. His eloquence, poetry, and music will
always live on. I am glad to have been part of the times that he lived in,
where his creativity has shown like a light upon the world. ~ Patrick
I discovered Dan's music way back when I was in college in the mid '70's. He quickly became a personal favorite and to this day, his music is some of my favorite and has a permanent spot on my iPod.
My condolences to his wife and family. He will be missed. God speed dear Dan.
Another one of our Heroes has gone.
Dan seemed such a genuine and beautiful human being, which shone through in
his wonderful songs.
He will be sadly missed, but those songs will live on forever.
Heartfelt condolences from across the Atlantic. ~
Alan & Rick (2 long time fans) from England
While I am very sad at this moment, I am also very grateful that I was able
to experience Dan's music. He had a way to reach deep into my soul and
touch my life with lyrics that really meant something to me. As I sit here
at my computer, listening to his songs, my emotions get the best of me. I
reminisce to songs like " The Long Way" and "Souvenirs" just to mention a
few. Dan, you left a legacy to the music world to follow. I will cherish
your songs for the rest of my days, and my children will know you through
your music as well. God Bless you, your family and all of your fans. We
will miss you, but we will never forget. ~
J. Cox -
Plymouth, IN
Dan's music has been inspirational to me as a pianist and songwriter. He's one
of the
last "literary" songwriters, and the music world would do itself a great favor by
hearkening to his approach to music and producing singers who pattern themselves after
him.
I never knew DF, but thought that if I had met him, I would have enjoyed talking to him,
and thrived on his commentary about singing, songwriting, and performing.
Also, "Along the Road" will be a favorite lullaby for my children. ~
Caleb Glenn Colley -
Montgomery, AL
God Bless Dan, your songs have been a true inspiration to my life. ~
George
Fantastic Music. Great Inspiration. ~ Marc Bernstein - Denmark
Words are inadequate to express the void that Dan's family and his many
friends/fans feel. Dan defined and gave lyrical expression to the inner
most feelings and experiences of the "common man". The haunting
melodies can bring back a memory in three notes. Dan - you will be
missed but never forgotten. Jean - you're in my prayers. I encourage
everyone to donate to the Prostate Cancer Charity in Dan's memory - it
is what he would have done for another. ~
Janet
Jean, may God bless you and your family during this change of chapters in your book of life. Dan rest in peace my friend.
"And he gave me a gift I know I can never repay."
Thanks Dan, for your gift through my life. ~
Peter Braun
To Dan's family,
I loved even his less successful albums. I loved the depth he had. His music
came from his soul. I felt like I knew him. Since High School, his albums
are what I would put on when I was going through a difficult time in my
life. I live in Santa Rosa Calif, and was unable to attend his last
performance at Luther Burbank for the Arts. I will always regret that. If I feel this bad, I can't even imagine what the family is going through.
To have the presence of mind to reach out to others, educating them on
Prostate cancer, when he clearly knew he had little time, shows how
unselfish he was. The world lost a great man, and a great talent. I wish for
the family a warm comforting hug from all his fans around the world. May God
bless his family, and give them peace.
A loving fan, ~ Tammy Stock
Dan was truly blessed by God and his music touched many. I have followed Dan
from 1977 and always looked forward to his next album. He was a friend and a
brother, he will be missed greatly. But I have hope that someday I will meet him
and we can play guitar together for the glory God. May God bless you Jean in
this time of sorrow, our prayers are with you. ~ Larry Davis
Your family is in my heart and prayers. Dan was an amazing gift from God to
all who heard his music. His voice and his messages will live on. ~
Gina Grabau -
Westerville, Ohio
"Ever on", Dan. The "Leader of the Band" has his sweet minstrel again. Thank
you, thank you for your beautiful music. Jean, my heart goes out to you.
Peace. Earth lost an angel, Heaven indeed set a "Captured Angel" free. Soar. ~
Lois - Santa Claus, Indiana
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dan. Growing up, his music
was always a great favorite of mine, and there are so many memories attached
to his songs that I will carry for a life time. To me, his lyrics were
extremely deep, meaningful, and incredibly powerful. "Run for the Roses" and "Same
Old Lang Syne" are my favorites, and the latter to this day would have to be
my all time favorite song. God bless Dan and his family. "And as I turned
to make my way back home, the snow, turned into rain...." ~ Bill; Waterford -
Connecticut.
Thank you Dan for the wonderful songs. They will live with me forever.
Jean you are a lucky women to have had him in your life, God bless you both. I am certain that God will enjoy having him with him. Very sorry for
your loss.
Regards ~
Malcolm Cummens
Thanks for your wonderful music. RIP. ~
RE (germany)
Our loss is heavens gain. We can find some relief in knowing that Dan is
now in heaven with his father (The "Leader of the Band") God speed Dan.
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing away of Dan.
I'll never forget you.
God bless you and your family ~
Masaki Yokota in Japan
Dan's lyrics helped me grow up. His music has guided me. I learned guitar
because of him. I feel as though I've lost a close friend. God bless you
Dan. ~ Mike C.
As a young man in college (late 70's) I played in a small band and was
first introduced to Dan by our lead singer, Chris Brown. Over the years
I grew to love all his subsequent albums; especially High Country Snows
in the 80's. He was a true poet and artist of the highest caliber. His
songs have marked many major milestones in my own life. I introduced
him to my four children; his music and memory will live forever. My
prayers are with you. ~
Desi (Stafford, VA)
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Dan's music will go on forever as well as his courageous battle against prostate cancer. ~ Linda
There is no music out there like Dan Fogelberg's. There is no songwriter out
there like him either. I was madly in love in high school and we would
constantly listen to Dan. That was the time frame of my introduction to him
and that was 20 years ago and I still listen to him. I have his music on
right now as I write this. No singer has touched me like him. His music
was pure, lovely and had a depth that would go straight to the heart.
Everyone could attach themselves to his music. My heart was broken when I
heard of his passing and my heart goes out to his wife who has lost such an
amazing man. His music will live on with us and for that I am grateful.
Sending his wife lots of love. ~
Petra Hudson -
Newton, MA
I can't claim to be a life-long fan; I stumbled across Dan's music quite by
accident about ten years ago, but after that, I was hooked. More than just
wonderful music, though, Dan seemed such a patently good and nice man. I was
sorry to hear of his battle against prostate cancer, and saddened to hear that
he lost the battle. But what a legacy to leave. I've just put on Home Free, and
it sounds as fresh and glorious as the first time I heard it. As for "Leader of
the Band", I always found it moving, but it will be almost unbearable now. Rest
in peace, Dan; you are missed, and mourned. ~
Eliot, London
Dear Dan (in heaven) and his family,
You were such an idol for me in high school when I started playing guitar and piano. Though out my life I have owed you on the joy and happiness that came to others as a result. I had no idea you were only 5 years older than me.
I still have all your early albums and later CD's. At Christmas, your "Same Old Lang Syne" is the one I want to hear. I am afraid I will hear it a lot this year for the wrong reasons. When I heard it yesterday, I cried. For I was mourning a lost love, you and your music. My early crush turned into a wonderful respect for your talent, your music, and how it whisked me away to a place nothing but music like yours can do.
I will pray for your family who have to bear this terrible loss at Christmas time and will be praying for you. For it is always the ones left behind who cry. For Dan, it is millions, for you it is millions also. For someone who has lost my father, my Aunt, and you, ( two in two days, all from cancer), yours brought out the most tears because all I have to do is sit down and play your songs, or listen to my CD's. I am long overdue for tears in a year full of loss and a psychiatrist would thank you for that.
See you on the other side of heaven.
A Loving Fan ~ Monique
Souvenirs. Thank God, you've left us quite a few. ~
Rudy, Holland (the Netherlands, Europe)
WOW. I've been a fan for 30 years. I'm just blown away by Dan's death, so I can imagine how his family feels. You, his family, are in my thoughts and prayers. ~ Kelly Snyder
I can't tell you how much Dan Fogelberg's music meant to me through out my
life. My condolences to his family, his friends and his millions of fans
all over the world. My prayers are with you all. ~ Michele Butter -
Pittsburgh, PA
I have listened to Dan's music since Souvenirs in 1974. He will be
missed, his guitar playing was and still is a influence on me. So sad to
hear of his passing and send my condolences to his family.
Sincerely ~
James Masko
As was part of Dan's plan, he touched so many hearts with his powerful
vocals and lyrics, and turned them to gold. My heart will always remember
him forever. To Jean, Dan is a guiding star to so many. My hope is that
you find comfort with his legacy. ~ Pam G
I will always cherish the many trips to Colorado between 1984 and 2001,
always marking the trip by listening to Dan's music. When I heard the lyrics and
melodies, I knew I was a part of the mountains. My deepest condolences to
the family and friends, who had the opportunity to truly know Dan. The rest
of us felt we knew him thru his music. All men should take heed of his
recommendation and get a regular prostate exam and PSA blood test. That admonition
will also be a part of his legacy that lives on. His was a memorable life. ~
Boyd Lyles, Jr. MD
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jean and Dan's family. My heart broke when I heard the news - tears streaming. All the memories came flooding back - of where I was when I first heard his songs, the Souvenirs 8 track that I wore out, the concerts I attended in Peoria, how we followed his career, and how proud we were of his accomplishments. We will be "Missing You" ~ M.K. - Pekin, IL
Through college and into my career, it seemed as if
I always had one of Dan's songs on my mind.
Patient and thoughtful about life, his songs pushed
me to feel a bit more comfortable with the stuff of life.
In the past few years, I have struggled to get back
to listening to music. If that sounds strange, it feels
stranger yet. Now, the jolt of his death, especially
after his long life struggle, helps me bring the empty
space without music into focus.
After all, what is life without music, especially the
thoughtful engaging songs of those like Dan who
courageously explore life and emotion? What a
wonderful contribution and legacy he's left us,
our children, and everyone he knew.
Thank you Dan, and Jean--and God Bless. ~
Robert Bailey
Our condolences to the family and friends of Dan. He has been such a presence in the lives of so many of us, the children of the 60's and 70's. Thanks for all the years of beautiful music, as we sit here tonight and enjoy it, thinking of you.
Dan was my inspiration to learn to play the piano. I will forever remember you as gifted artist. Goodnight my friend, we will all be united in heaven.
Thanks for being my soundtrack. I think that I learned to be sensitive with you,
occasionally bitter, occasionally joyous, and honest. I thought the soundtrack would
continue a little longer, but so it goes sometimes. But heartfelt thanks and blessings. ~
James Hicks -
Queensbury NY
I attended Elizabethtown College in Elizabethtown PA from 1978 - 1982. Dan's album
Nether Lands was a mainstay when we got together to party. College represented 4 of the
best years of my life - where I met my current husband and still best friend. I was just
in the car taking my son to basketball when WLTW in NYC finished playing "Same Old Lang Syne"
and mentioned the death of Dan Fogelberg this weekend. This was the first I heard about
it. God bless this talented musician and thank God for all the music he was able to give
us before he died.
I have always loved Dan's music, ever since I came to this country, as a young girl, from West Africa in the early '80's. His songs just had a romantic sorrow ness to them, as if vowing that if you could do things over again, you would. Whenever I listened to any of his songs, the words always made me shed tears. I never knew that Mr. Fogelberg was ill, if I had, I would have sent a get well email sooner. It was by chance that I heard his song on the radio and let it play to the end that the DJ announced his passing. I was devastated and my heart broke. Jean, I will always think of you and your Husband, especially, every
X-Mas, when his song is on for the holidays. Only someone kind hearted could compose such words and music.
Sincerely ~ Donnya Milton
I send to each and every one of you, my sincere condolences. Dan's music has always been a huge part of my life. "Run for the Roses." I could just cry when I think of this talented young man being taken from us so young. He inspired me, he calmed me, he was a part of some of the best memories of my life. Rest in Peace, dear friend. Your legacy will live forever in my heart. Heaven shines today with a beautiful Angel singing to us all.
~ A Friend In Maine
It feels like losing a member of the family. When I saw Dan a few years
back on OPB I never thought that would be the last time I would ever see
him. I am very thankful for the times I saw him in the 70's. Dan was a
large part of my youth and I will miss him for the rest of my life. ~ Bob
from Oregon
We just wanted to let you know that we enjoyed his music for many years and that he will be missed by our entire family. He is now with the "Leader of the Band." Thank you for years of wonderful music. ~
The Collins family of Cleveland, Ohio.
Hello,
I am so sorry for your very great loss of your husband and to all of his family members I send my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy. It is a terrible loss for the entire world. His music took many of us through years of good and bad times. He touched so many hearts. He can never be replaced. He was a treasure to be cherished always. We actually had Dan's music playing on May 7, 1997, when my brother Richie passed away. He loved Dan Fogelberg's music and we even went to some of his concerts. To us, it was a blessing to have his soothing, beautiful music on as my brother passed. Richie was 51 at the time. Dan had only five more years than my brother and for that I am so sad. He was such a comfort to so many people; so much to us. I will always listen, and treasure the music that Dan brought into my life. Along with beautiful memories to cherish forever.
Thank you Dan, for your loving, caring music that will last a lifetime. ~
Susan Berry -
Mounds View, Minnesota
It literally took my breath away when I heard the news of Dan's passing. What a tragedy
to lose such a talented artist at such a young age. Your music will live on in our
hearts and minds forever. ~ Tina - Ohio
Long time no see. Thanks for the music. I'll see you when it's over. " Let it Shine."
~ Arm
To the family of Dan Fogelberg,
I wanted to express my sympathy and sadness at the loss of Dan. When I
heard the announcement last night I was in shock and disbelief. I was
surprised that I felt so very sad considering I never knew the man
personally. His music just touched me through many specific times in my
life and I have long considered him my favorite artist.
The world has truly lost a very talented musician who shared his gift with
the lives of many including myself. Like others, I have always connected
with Dan’s music- I grew up with him in the 70’s and 80’s and in more recent
years, assumed he wanted his privacy in a retirement of sorts. I never
even knew of his illness.
Ironically, about 2 weeks ago (after a year or so hiatus), I was thinking
of his music and pulled out Home Free and Souvenirs and listened to them
over and over while on a business road trip. I’ve always been very
intuitive, so I believe now that at some subconscious level, my heart knew
something was not right- he was on my mind. I wish I’d have had the
privilege of knowing him personally. Judging by his lyrics, I assume he was
a very kind, gifted, perceptive, strong person. I pray he had found his
Lord and that he is now at peace and free of his illness and all the pain he
must have been in. I will keep you all in my prayers as well as you deal
with his loss on a daily basis.
What a legacy he gave us all.
Sincerely ~ Julie -
Appleton, WI
Three days now, and I have yet to think about Dan's passing without having tears stream down my
face. As others have said, it matters not if you ever met the man. His music was so incredible that
it made an indelible mark on all those who "listened." Early this year, I began playing guitar
again, after a 20 year hiatus. Why? Because, one day while listening to The Innocent Age, I decided
to learn to play it. I have always loved his music.
Jean, family, and friends of Dan - Thank you for letting me share my thoughts and letting me offer
my condolences. It is truly heartbreaking that we have lost such a soul. My prayers are with you. "It's never easy and it's never clear" - Thank you Dan. ~ Wayne - Allentown, NJ
I just want to say that it was a day of unspeakable sadness for me the
morning that Dan's light went out. In many ways I feel I became a man
to the soundtrack of his music. As a child I learned the yearning of
wanting more something more than anything listening to "Run For The
Roses". I realized that the love between a father and a son knows no
limits listening to "Leader Of The Band". I found solace from the
overwhelming sadness that comes from the regret of losing your first
love listening to "Same Old Lang Syne". I found a profound awareness
of the natural world around me listening to the High Country Snows
album. Dan Fogelberg's music changed my life, it changed who I am as a
person, made me stronger, and more complete. Thank God for records and
CDs and videos, for although Dan has progressed on to the next level of
life, the legacy he left behind will be with us forever. In 1,000
years, if the world remains, so will Dan's music, so that it may
continue to teach lessons to humankind. To Dan's family, thank you for
enduring the hardships of life with someone who must travel the world,
thank you for sharing this remarkable man with us. The tears that we
cry now will soon be dried by the overwhelming legacy of love that Dan's
music has left us. ~
Jeff Hale - Marion, Illinois
I felt like I got punched in the stomach when I heard Dan Fogelberg died. The first thing that came to mind was the time I stood outside his dressing room door and listened to him doing his warm up vocal scales before a performance on his The Innocent Age concert tour. I deeply admired him as a musician and writer then and now. I hate that he is gone. My sincerest condolences to his family. ~ Scott - Windham, Maine
Dear Dan,
Your singing & songwriting has influenced, consoled, & educated me for
as long as I can remember. May the hearts of your loved ones heal soon,
knowing that you are surely at peace. Thank you for leaving this earth
having made a difference. Thank you too for leaving us with your wise &
kind lyrics to treasure.
So long for now ~ VRH
I am just heartbroken. I have not stopped bawling. I thought it was hard when we lost Karen Carpenter, but this one maybe takes the cake for me.
Thank you for all you do and I sure wish different locations would have little prayers together. Thanks again, and again my condolences. ~
Michelle Browning
My earliest music memory is of my father singing "Leader of the Band" and
playing his old guitar. I think I was around four years old at the time. I
will never forget those memories, and Dan's legacy will live on through
generations of my family. Thanks for everything Dan.