I have just learned of Dan’s death from a friend in New Zealand. He was a
massive influence on my musical taste and on the acoustic music I have
played throughout my life. I hope his family will take some strength from
the thought that Dan will live on through his fantastic music and lyrics.‘Leader of the Band’ was a brilliant song with amazing lyrics. I shall
shed a tear next time I listen to it.
God bless Dan’s family ~
Phil Taylor,
Guernsey, Channel Islands
Dan's music was truly the "soundtrack" of my youth. I remember lying on my
college dorm bed in the late 70's and dreamily listening to Nether Lands over
and over and over again.
What a contribution he made. Sing on Dan! ~ Kelly
I don't think I've grieved as much for anyone,.except the death of my
mother. Somehow Dan touched a part of me. I feel like I lost my best friend. I'm
listening to "Same Old Lang Syne" right now and crying. Rest well, Dan and thanks
for sharing your beautiful talent with us. ~ Fred House
Dan Fogelberg was the icon of my youth. I am an art teacher, now in my 40's and struggling with a rare medical condition of my own, though still blessedly able to work. I teach inner-city high school students each day, and listen to their music in class, sad over the lyrics saturating their young lives. What a beautiful soundtrack Dan provided to my own experiences at that age, and how lucky we all are when touched by an artist of his gifts. ~ GMC
RIP Dan Fogelberg. You had a special gift that so few have and by sharing
this gift you made the world a better place and I thank you. My heartfelt
condolences to your family. ~ JS, New Orleans
Dan was and is my favorite artist. I was in my early adult years and his
music just touched me so much. As we all do, I got caught up in life and
wasn't following artists as much. It wasn't until I was loading songs to the
IPOD that my husband gave me that I realized how much I loved and missed his
voice and music. I wanted to check Dan's concert schedule and that's when I
found out that he was ill (and sadly I never got to see him in concert).
I'm so very sad that his voice for new songs is gone, but the amazing songs
that he gave to all of us I'll cherish forever. He was a truly amazing
artist and I'll always hold a special place in my heart for this dear man
and true artist.
My heart goes out to his family, friends and all who loved and adored him.
Dan was the best.
Rest in peace Dan. We all love you. ~
Laurie
Dan...."Tu es dans ma coeur et dans ma tete" always, forever. ~ Maureen, Asbury, NJ
Jean, my prayers go out to you and your family. Incredible music that
touched the soul, Dan you'll be greatly missed. ~
Mark
I am so sorry to hear that we have lost Dan. So many people all over
the world have been touched by his soulful music. I can only hope that
our collective love can give his family some solace. He was a
remarkable person and one of a kind. I will truly miss him. ~
Debbie Shaw
Hello,
My name is Mario Pronovost, I will like to express my condolences, to the family. Dan
Fogelberg was such a great musician and songwriter as well.
I discovered Daniel Fogelberg in 1981, when I was learning English at the Lévis-Lauzon
College (Quebec) Canada. My English teacher Pierre Richard was playing a lot of his songs
in class and we had to find the lyrics, it was the album "The Innocent Age". At that time I
was working in a grocery store, and reminded me exactly what I was going through. I
bought his books of music, his records as well, played his music, and always thought he
was so good! So sensitive!
Well, his music is like a sweet miracle and still exists. We can hear him forever!
Thank you Dan, you are a great Spirit!
God bless you! ~
Mario Pronovost
Several weeks ago I had burned a CD to give to friends for Christmas. The
first song I had selected was “Snowfall” by Dan Fogelberg. I was unaware of how
timely that selection might become. I have loved his music my entire life,
and will always remember him in a very special place. The “Nether Lands”
album will always remain a very special part of my life. I could go on and on. I
loved all his music, his concerts, his gentle disposition. I know every
lyric by heart. I keep hearing in refrain the following:
Off in the nether lands I heard a sound
Like the beating of heavenly wings
And deep in my brain I can hear a refrain
Of my soul as she rises and sings
Anthems to glory and Anthems to love and
Hymns filled with early delight
Like the songs that the darkness
Composes to worship the light.
Dan, may you have heavenly wings, live in the light, and compose to your heart’s delight. I look forward to hearing you again some day. Godspeed Dan. You and your
family are in our prayers. ~
Tim Moriarty,
Indianapolis, IN
Many thoughts and blessings to the Fogelberg family for the passing of Dan
Fogelberg. He was a wonderful, soulful musician with the talent and ability to
touch my soul as a young college student in the 1980's & on. I recall nights
listening over and over to his music. With much admiration and appreciation. ~
Lisa W.
Many times my brother & I have played together at various functions and
have always included our favorite song "Place in the World for a
Gambler" from weddings to festivals to charities to funerals the message
that this song brings is second to none. I can only hope that there is
a light in the depth of your darkness. My deepest regards. ~
Ron Driedger,
Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
"And in the play of shadows cast, I can dimly discern
The shades of all who've gone before, calling me to return......"
Born a month after you in Chicago, and having lived in Boulder in the
years you lived there, I feel like you and I grew up together. I played
your early vinyl on the air at the Leadville CO radio station in the
mid-70s and saw you in concert many times. The depth and warmth of your
music has spread like a ripple in a pond through more recent years in
Alaska and now in Canada, My grown sons with children of their own and
my 5-year-old daughter from China now listen to your music.
Your voice has been as much a part of our home as our children's
voices. Your gift of music lives on in all of us. I'll never be able
to shake you, Dan.
May the Spirit that lives in the Four Winds guide you through your next
adventure. Walk gently, my friend, along the spirit trail. ~ Joe Precourt from Chicago, Boulder, Juneau, now northern BC, Canada
As I look at my cassette of Dan Fogelberg Greatest Hits, to which I played
and wore out. I loved his music to which takes me back to a time in my life
to which his music gave me much comfort. Nothing worse than losing a love
one, is to lose them during the holiday season. God bless his family thru this
time of need.
Thanks Dan for the music that was so special, so personal yet so resonant
(to your individual listeners' own life experiences) and so beautiful. You
were a joy to listen to, and always shall be.
To quote the words of another minstrel: "Though I never met him, I knew him
just the same. He was a friend of mine".
Your friend over many years and through the many lands I lived in Asia and
Latin America as well as the U.S. ~
Mike McNertney
"Leader of the Band" is one of my all time favorite songs. He will be missed. God bless. ~
Charlee Redick
I'm going to paraphrase a little, here, from a prayer I received years ago. "When through one man a little more love and goodness, a little more light and truth come into the world-then that man's life has had meaning." It's up to us now to keep that light burning and pass on the meaning to others. ~ dmh, Orland Park, IL
I heard of Dan's passing on my way to work December 17th. My cousin first
introduced me to Dan when I was a teenager. I have been listening to his music
ever since. My thoughts and prayers go out to Dan, Jean and the entire Fogelberg
family. Dan was truly an inspiration and his music will continue to touch hearts
everyday. ~ Linda, Chicago, Illinois
There are no words to express the loss I feel with the passing of Dan, someone
I have seen many many times in concert, have never met, yet who moved and
touched me with his music and lyrics for over 32 years. He has been a part of
my life. My deepest condolences to Jean and his family. I wish you all peace and
hope you find come comfort in knowing that your love and loss is shared by all
those he touched through his music. He will never be forgotten... ~ Andrea M.
So very few people have the gift to touch so many, even fewer have the gift
and choose not to use it. Dan Fogelberg put into words and music the feelings
we could not and in doing so he guided us through our good and bad times. We
felt a kindred spirit that cannot be replaced. He will continue to touch and
help us through his gift that he gave to us. We never met him and yet we have
known him all of our lives. As he said "there is a calm in every storm " He has
found his.
Goodbye Old Friend. ~
Bryan and Renea, In Old Tennessee
Your songs touched my soul...and the spirit and courage of your soul
touched us all. ~ M.L.
Wow, his music continues to touch my life. A bright soul has left this
plane. My thoughts are with his family.
What a heartbreaking loss for those of us weaned on Dan's beautiful music. I listened to Souvenirs, Twin Sons of Different Mothers, Nether Lands, etc. during my college years
in the 70's. I have never outgrown this music. It is just as welcoming for me to plunk in
my Souvenirs CD now as it was to plop the LP on my turntable 30 years ago. Dan, thank you
for your wonderful gifts to the world. I'll be listening to Souvenirs until I'm an old
man. ~
Steve Starr,
Evanston, Illinois
Peaceful journeys Dan. You made the world a better place.
May the trail rise up to meet you
May your heart rejoice in song
May the skies be fair above you
As you journey ever on
Ever on, Ever on
Ever on, Ever on
~ Carol Randolph
I was so sad to hear of Dan's passing. His song "Same Old Lang Syne" meant so much to me when I was 18 years old and had moved from Boulder, Colorado back to Texas. It was like he was singing about my life in Boulder. He has also touched my life in that my husband is 46 and has never had a prostate exam. Dan’s words to his male fans inspired my husband to make an appointment to get checked. Dan’s wife and family are in our prayers. You will see him again someday. Thank you Dan for everything, your music will go on forever in the hearts of the one’s that loved it and in the hearts of future generations to come. Love to all of you ~ Carol in Houston, TX
My thoughts and prayers are with Dan's family and his friends. He was a
remarkable musician with a huge heart!
I just learned about Dan's passing.His music helped me through a difficult time over 20 years ago. It gave me hope. I'm also a Prostate Cancer survivor. I was diagnosed 2 years ago. I caught it in its earliest stages thanks to the PSA test . I urge all men 40 plus to get this done once a year.
Dear family of Dan Fogelberg, I'm in shock to hear about Dan's passing. He was the greatest recording artist of all time. I dearly loved Dan's music, and know every song that Dan recorded. I know that he suffered with cancer, but I just can't believe that he is gone! He will be very sadly missed by all of his fans. There will never be another Dan Fogelberg, because he was truly "One of a kind." My condolences are with each and every one of you. Dan can now sing to God and the angels. ~ Mary Jane Miles, Lebanon, KY
To paraphrase from one of my favorite songs..
There's a place in the heavens for a poet.
Let it shine, Dan, oh let it shine.
Love Always ~
Lynne Wickerham
Dan Fogelberg touched a generation with his music, and in a time when
all the music was so good that it could have gotten lost.
I know your music will live on forever, and you are the true Leader of
the Band. ~
Sheryl
I was so sorry to learn of Dan's passing. Our prayers and sympathy go
out to Jean, family members, and close friends. As many others before me
have noted, Dan's song "Longer" was played at our wedding in November of
1980 and it still holds great meaning for me. Dan's songs have been and
will continue to be an influence in my life and that of my two boys, who
have heard me play Dan's songs so many, many times. Dan will
continue to live forever through the countless lives he has touched
throughout the years. ~ Ben Smith, KS
To the Family and Friends of Dan Fogelberg,
I don't need to tell you he's still here,
his voice is clear and singing,
and somewhere a young heart hears,
is touched and inspired,
and he lives on in the songs
we'll be singing.
Thanks Dan, for being a part of so many of my best memories.
I'm still listening. Rest well. ~
Colin Pitcairn,
Rockville, Maryland
When I was in second grade, I first heard Dan Fogelberg's song, "Longer." From that moment on, I made up my mind how I always wanted and expected to be in love. It's funny how musicians can often serve as our finest teachers.
From what I understand, "Leader of the Band" was Dan's tribute to his father. Most people who listen to it, however, feel as if the lyrics are about their own dad. Such widespread identification is the mark of a truly incredible song. "My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man." That line will cut down any person who has ever loved and deeply respected their father. ~ Johnny Kroo (Bohemia, NY)
I found myself weeping in the extension cord area at the hardware store
today as I heard the beautiful voice playing out of the store speakers. "Same Old Lang Syne". Perfect timing...what a gift . Thank you for caring for such a special soul. ~ Fanny
Dear Jean,
I am so sorry for your loss. Dan was the most amazing musician in the world. My Mom had me listening to him before I was even born and I have not stopped for the last 36 years. I can't imagine what you must be going through, but my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. This is the first time I have ever wept over the passing of someone I did not know, but through his music, he gave me a gift beyond measure. Like he said "he gave me a gift I know I can never repay". He was and will continue to be an inspiration and a friend whenever I play his music. We are all so blessed to have been touched by his talent. Blessings to you....with love and light ~ Liliya
I have no words, only Souvenirs. ~ Bob
The world is a little more empty today. ~
Ira-Boston
I find it meaningful that he slipped his mooring just before the storm came ..
"and when he went to make his way back home/ the snow turned into rain."Auld Lang Syne, fellow sailor. Another storm is coming into Maine tonight (this third day after his death), and I believe the winds will help to escort him to that "distant shore". My heart aches for you-- his wife, his mother, brothers and family. All of us who have been touched by his words and music are surely richer for it. How awesome and powerful it has been to witness someone's genius/talent fully realized. Dan's example humbles, shames and inspires me to embrace my own God given gifts, small as they may be. Thank you for reflecting the light. ~
P., Maine
I'm a little older than Dan, but it seems like I grew up with him, I played the ponies and when he
sang "Run For The Roses" on Derby Day. I think it bought a tear to
everybody. God bless you Dan ~ Geo., Las Vegas
Dan, you will be missed.
The world's music will be so much less without you, but heaven will ring and ring and ring out beautifully with your beautiful voice. Enjoy you reward.
My deepest sympathy to the ones you love and the ones who love you ~ Marsha J. West
Dear Jean and family of Dan Fogelberg,
I was around 19 when the young man I had a crush on came around with
Dan's first album. "You have to hear this guy sing. He is amazing," he
told me. We sat on the porch and listened all the way through, and I
have never been so affected by anyone's music since. I followed his
music over the years, was fortunate enough to see him in concert in
Indianapolis, Indiana, early on when he was the lead-in performer for
the Eagles. He had a beautiful spirit, evident in his music, evident in
the photos of him on the website. I am so sorry that you have lost him. ~
Marian Davis,
Johnson City, TN
Dear Jean, Margaret and all of Dan’s family and friends, I was never blessed to meet Dan in person, although I felt like I knew him through his wonderful music. News of his passing hit me as if I’d lost a dear friend, perhaps because I lost my mother to cancer not long after he announced his illness, so it brought back a flood of memories and tears.
Like so many others have written, his music and lyrics have had a profound effect on my life. These words from “Nexus” sum up the lessons I’ve learned from Dan, and I know that he lived them to the fullest.
Wealthy the spirit that knows its own flight
Stealthy the hunter who slays his own fright
Blessed the traveler who journeys the length of the light.
Dan is definitely the blessed traveler who has journeyed the length of the light. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. ~ Sheila Mallinson, Babylon, NY
A gentle soul...a timeless troubador...quiet guitar man...Dan was all
these
and more. From his first LP, which I bought when I was in college, to his
latest release, his music has woven a golden thread into the fabric of my
life. They say music is the language of the soul. If that is the case, then
Dan will be forever communicating to us through the songs and compositions
he left behind. His talent is his legacy. His music is his story. His
family must be very proud of him. I know they will miss him greatly...and
so will those whose lives he touched. Peace and comfort be yours. Thank
you for the Souvenirs, Dan...we'll never forget you! ~ Shelley
I cannot express to Dan's family how very saddened I am by his passing.
He was such a gift to the world! His music has meant so much to my life
for the last 35 yrs. It is difficult to accept that he will not be able
to share anymore with us. I met a very special someone in the summer of
'77 in Bullfeathers in Va. Beach Va. thanks to Dan- Ethan was also a
huge fan, and when I told him he reminded me of Dan that was the
beginning of a very beautiful friendship that I sorely miss that no one
could ever come close to replace! But I will have to reach out to him
now, as I'm sure he is also remembering many good times. May God Bless
Dan's soul with love and peace! I was so shocked by the news because I
had a thought of him a couple of days before he died, and I wondered how
he was, what he was doing with his life, why we hadn't heard any new
music from him, and then I woke to the awful news on Sunday morning. My
heart goes out to his family and to his wife Jean! Their time together
was much too short! Dan Fogelberg will be forever in our hearts, and
his music will touch the world forever! Amen xo
My deepest sympathy, Dan's music touched so many lives, including mine.
Thank you for sharing your gift to the world. ~
Jim-Missouri
A friend from my hometown just told me. My deepest condolences to Dan’s
family, to the world and to me. You see, Dan Fogelberg is a part of my
musical heritage. When I was in the 6th grade I took oboe lessons from Dan’s
Dad and later he was my band director in high school. One day after my
lesson, which was in the back room of a local music store, Mr. Fogelberg
walked me out to the front of the store and said he had something to show
me. He pulled an album out of the bin and handed it to me. I was confused.
What did this album with a picture of a long-haired guy on the cover have to
do with oboe music. Why was quiet, conservative Mr. Fogelberg encouraging
me to listen to t rock music? Well, it was Dan’s first album – Home Free, and
in his own quiet way Mr. Fogelberg was telling me to check it out. I did.
And from that point on, Dan Fogelberg played the background music of my life
as I went from being a geeky band-nerd to a free-wheeling and adventurous,
somewhat well-adjusted adult. I put thousands of miles on my VW as Dan
blared out of the rigged up sound system, barely competing with the engine
noise. I read every liner note and memorized every lyric. The Innocent Age resounded through the halls of my dorm room as I thrilled my friends with
the story of how Mr. Fogelberg, The Leader of the Band, was really my band
director. I was living in a cabin in the White River National Forest of
Colorado when the High Country Snows came out. We all piled in a van and
road tripped to Telluride for the bluegrass Festival. I had "Since You’ve
Asked" played at my wedding. Just a man and a guitar. What a long and
intertwined ride it has been.
Godspeed, Dan. I trust that you are in a good place, and I hope you know
what a difference your music has made in the world. On Sunday, the day you
passed away, I was innocently sitting at a café when "Longer" came on the
Musak track. I marveled at its beauty and timelessness. I smiled to myself
and re-played the Dan Fogelberg discography in my mind as I re-visited the
scenes of my life. Thanks Dan, for stopping by one last time before heading
on. ~
L.H.
Some say, "We'll Always Remember". I'll Ask "How could we forget?" ~ Rick...
I’m so saddened by the loss. My thoughts and my prayers are with Dan’s
family. Dan meant so much to so many. ~
Sean,
Raleigh, NC
From the cradle to the grave...you have come 'Full Circle' Dan. Many thanks for the wonderful music through which you live on. ~
Jim & Norah,
Scotland
My sincerest condolences to Dan's family. Please know that so many share in your sorrow. I have been an ardent fan since college when several friends and I camped out overnight on a cold sidewalk in Albany to get tickets to one of his concerts. His beautiful music and transcendent voice are part of the soundtrack of many lives, including mine, and live on as his legacy. ~ Nancy, NY
I had heard Dan was very ill, but had no idea how close to death he was. On Saturday the
15th I remembered I hadn't listened to his music for a while, and I played it ALL DAY,
bringing back all the varied memories his music always did. How shocked I was the very
next day, when I looked up his website, only to find that he had died at 6 AM. that same
morning. I mentioned this to a friend who told me the exact thing had happened to a
friend of hers, who listened to his music all day the day before he died, after a period
of not hearing him for a while.
God bless you Dan, and may God comfort and give peace and solace to Jean, in what must be
her overwhelming grief and loss now.
I always felt a connection with Dan and his music. He was only one year older than me,
and we grew up within 90 miles of each other in Illinois. He was on the Illinois River, I
was on the Mississippi. I always understood and felt the poignancy of "Illinois". My Mom
was from Colorado, so I could always understand why he loved the mountains so much. His
music has touched me so much for over 30 years. I know I'm just one of millions of his
fans grieving for a such a tremendous loss. At least we have his magnificent music and
our memories for life.
I do believe God now has one of the best voices and musicians ever in His choir and band.
Peace to you, Dan. I loved you and you will continue to move me with your exquisite
music. ~ A mourning fan. C. C.
Dan Fogelberg is one of my ALL TIME favorite artists. I heard him in 1973? for the first time with my boyfriend (he knew Dan as a DJ at KDA-FM) at the Exit Inn in Nashville, TN. My favorite album is and always will be Home Free. I have it in my DVD player in the car and listen to it almost everyday. My college room-mate and I listened to it every night (had a repeating turn-table). We wore out three albums in a year.
When I found out about his passing I cried for an hour. For my youth (he was such a huge part of it) good and bad, friends, and family.
I offer my sincere sorrow for his passing to his family and friends and all of us out here who loved him.
Now there is a new angel in heaven. ~
Sharon Duffel,
Hermitage, TN
I am very sad to hear of Dan's passing. Anyone familiar with his music can probably link a given Dan Fogelberg song with a specific memory, possibly more so than they could with any other musical artist. I know I can! Far from being just another immensely talented pop/rock/folk singer, Dan had a unique style that transcended his musical contemporaries. Dan was a human being who could probably look back at his life and say "I truly accomplished what I was put on this earth to do". May we all live our lives - however long or short - just like Dan, by following our true purpose and passion.
My deepest condolences go to Dan Fogelberg's family. Dan's music got me through
a very hard time in my life and as I listen to his music it always gives me hope
and puts a smile on my face. He will always live in his music and in my heart.
We love you Dan! ~ Amber Milford, New Hampshire
I am so saddened by the loss of one of the most influential musicians in my
life, especially growing up in the 70's. I will never forget the times I
stayed in my room when I was 16 years old listening to "Souvenirs" over and
over again and feeling like I could go on with my life just because of Dan's
music. I cherish each and every concert that I have attended over the years which were many. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Fogelberg family.
May you find peace and comfort in your memories. I know I will. ~
Lisa C.,
Massachusetts
The feelings associated with Dan & his music are very deep in our hearts and
souls, and they connect all of us in a way that is filled with peace, love
and warmth. What a beautiful legacy to leave! We learned of Dan's "going
home" tonight at a Choir Christmas Party. All of us had been touched by
Dan's music in some way and it was a blessing to share that with each other.
May the Spirit of Dan Fogelberg live forever & ever!! AMEN! ~
Kevin & GiGi
I am very saddened by this news! My ex-husband turned me on to his music
back in 1982!
He was supposed to be here in Coral Springs, FL a few years ago, when his
concert was cancelled due to his cancer.
I've had his website in my favorites ever since, hoping for good news that
he would go into complete recession and be able to sing in public again.
The 1st album I ever listened to was Captured Angel. Then I listened to
the ones that came out before Captured Angel.
Home Free which has this beautiful song "To The Morning", Souvenirs which
has "Part of the Plan" and then bought every album after that!
Since I just moved, I will be finding the box that has all his cd's and I
will be listening to them again!
I went to every concert I could, when he was in whatever area I lived. I
was in love with this man just by the words and music that he wrote.
The words from the end of the song "Nether Lands"...I've always loved this
part of this song.
Once in a vision
I came on some woods
And stood at a fork in the road
My choices were clear yet I froze with the fear
Of not knowing which way to go
One road was simple acceptance of life
The other road offered sweet peace
When I made my decision my vision became my release.
I know he has now found sweet peace and is no longer suffering!
Sweet Dan! I know you are now with the "Leader of the Band" your dad!
My condolences to his wife and family! ~
A.J. Dove
I was introduced to Dan's music as an aspiring acoustic guitarist in 1974 (8th
grade). I remember listening to "Home Free" and "Souvenirs", buying the sheet music and trying to emulate Dan's voice as best I could. Of course I listened to all the other 70's folk/rock artists, but Dan's lyrics spoke to me in a way that defined my style to the present time. I honestly couldn't listen to his music enough. Every song, through "The Innocent Age", held a special place and moment in history for me. I'm sure you all have a similar story of how Dan's music touched your lives. I read an article about Stephen Stills battle with Prostate cancer yesterday and Graham Nash mentioned losing "Danny". I wonder how many of his friends knew him by that name. I've thought about him a lot lately, as we all have, and feel like the world really never knew how great a singer/songwriter he really was. Most of his popularity was garnered from The Innocent Age on. Maybe it was my age or the times, but the early stuff lives in my mind and will forever. Do yourselves a favor and listen to "To the Morning", "The Last Nail" or "Along the Road". They're all so damn good and they all strike you right from the soul. I saw Dan at Tanglewood, in 1977, on a solo tour. He played "Once Upon a Time" on a Guild twelve string and just "blew my doors off"."All the others simply don't compare". He sang the %$# out of everything he wrote and he never wanted the gold glitz. First class all the way. I will miss him, his talent, his vision and all he stood for. Rest in Peace. You will NEVER be forgotten ~
Mike DeAngelis,"Hair of the Dog"
I was saddened to hear of Dan's passing. His music & lyrics lifted my soul each and every time I heard them. The loss of Dan and his talent will leave a whole in the music industry and in the lives of all he touch. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.
A great song maker and singer has gone home. He will be missed, but his music lives on.
I was completely shocked to hear the news about Dan.
Why is it such great people are taken from the world early - Just when the
world needs them the most?
I identify with many of Dan's songs - "Same Old Lange Syne" in particular
so perfectly captures that moment when you meet a long lost love and so
beautifully articulates the emotions that you feel. I get teary just
thinking about it. "Leader of the Band" also resonates with me. I had an amazing Father and put
my own success in life down to the example he set.
So thank you Dan for providing part of the soundtrack to my life.
Rest in Peace ~
John Volpato - Canberra, Australia
I'm so terribly sad. ~
Mary
The song I ever heard was "Part of the Plan" and from that day on I was hooked on his music. So long Dan. You will always have a place in my heart with your music. My prayers are with your family. ~ Brian L.
Dear Fogelberg family, friends and fans, I send you my prayers and love on the passing of Dan. May comfort find you. May we all find it knowing how this man has touched so many lives. Time and perspective will show us we were all the greater for having this time with him. There is a light at the edge of the darkness. Let it shine. I think Dan would have wanted that.... ~ Carol Franz St. Charles MO
To Jean and Dan's Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies to you in the loss of your loved one. I
was fortunate to have known Dan as his veterinarian when he lived in Colorado in the mid 80's and early 90's. Dan had a few
special cats, none more special than his buddy Merlin. Dan had a kind heart
and a real soft spot for his animal friends. He was also very kind to me in
the early days of my veterinary career making house calls in Southwest
Colorado. I'll never forget walking through his studio - wide eyed and so
appreciative. He made me feel right at home. A good man, a gift from God,
a life lived well. God Bless ~
Dr. Dan
I never realized how much Dan's music marked times in my life until I sat this week and
listened to my music library. For that I am grateful. He will be missed.
God Bless.
I was taking a much needed vacation in Key West during the late summer of 2004 when I read Dan had released the news he had been diagnosed with cancer. That horrible news, coming so unexpectedly in such a wonderful place, is one of the marker events of my life. I will always remember where I was, what was doing, and how I felt that morning. The next years were spent looking for news, hoping for the best, and expecting the worse. That 'worse' came Sunday. Reading all the messages posted here, there is little or nothing for me to add. Dan was THE songwriter, THE singer, THE entertainer, and he was the only great friend I have ever had that I never met. The new romances he helped me start, and the support he offered when they ended, seems unquantifiable these many years later. What little guitar I play, I play because of his influence. I have only a modest music collection, compared to most people today, but I have every one of Dan's works, many on vinyl and CD. 'Missed' is just not an adequate word right now.... I don't believe that an adequate one exists. Jean, and other family members, my heartfelt condolences are with you. I hope your sorrow is lessened by being shared by thousands. Godspeed Dan. ~
M. Sturgill (Lexington, Ky)
Danny,
You made a difference in this crazy world. Thank you for sharing your
wonderful talent and leaving the legacy of your music. You'll always be a part of
all who loved you! Peace eternal...Rest easy! ~
Richard Lambert, Goldsboro, NC
Thirty years, 10 concerts and Fogelberg cd’s constantly playing have elevated you to family in my life, Dan. Words can’t describe the sadness I feel that your vibrant being will not be seen again and new soulful lyrics will be made no more. I’ve cried, laughed and cried some more. Your talent often made it seem impossible that you were a mere mortal, so the loss seems misplaced and so difficult to accept. Just know that I've always believed your talent was an accumulation of lifetimes past. Your words, wisdom and music at such a young age were profound.
It would seem that your higher self believes you accomplished all that you could on this earthly plane and so it was time. It just pains all who loved you that you had to suffer so much and go so soon. That’s not fair or right, though life seems random where death is concerned. I applaud your life. You are hugely loved and will be missed beyond words, expressed in tears. Our heartfelt thanks to Jean for loving you and being with you in your time of need. Another angel sent from above to watch over you. To Jean and your family, my deepest regrets for the loss of a loving spouse, brother and son. He was extraordinary! To Dan...rest, go see papa and just know that your mark on this island, third from the sun, will live eternally! ~ Chris DeVincentis, WI
Dan lived a fuller life than most of us will ever live. Saw him at Carnegie Hall in 1979 and was hooked for life. Very sad news but his light will always shine brightly and will inspire generations to come. When one thinks of Dan a smile always glows..Peace. ~ Tom
Dear Jean--
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your husband gave me MANY years of
wonderful music. I played "Leader of the Band" at my father's funeral, not
because he was musical, but because the words 'just fit.' My father was always
the "leader" of the family.
We/the world lost a great musician, a wonderful "comic" in concert, and an
outstanding person. I will say a prayer for him tonight, that he is free of pain, and thank him
for ALL that he has given me.
I felt as if I had lost my best friend when I heard the news on Sunday evening
of Dan's
passing. We knew of course of his battle with cancer, but had hoped that he was winning
the fight. My husband and I have been fans since the 70's and have spend many peaceful
hours listening to Dan's music and my husband enjoyed learning Dan's new songs as they
came out practicing them over and over on the guitar. We will miss being able to see
him perform in the future, but will certainly be life-long Fogelberg Fans. Our
thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. We will miss you Dan.
Sincerely ~
Gordi and Anna Renfrew,
Clay, New York
My wife and I are extremely saddened by Dan's death. I believe him to have been one of the
greatest musicians of our time. We were fortunate enough to see him in concert two times
and came away in total awe each time. It is hard for me to put into words how I felt when
this man would sit in front of me playing that Martin guitar or any guitar for that
matter. He caused me to want to rush right home and see if i could possibly duplicate
what I had heard him do. No such luck. I am now playing his Christmas cd and feeling very
sad that this gentleman has left us at such a young age. We send our prayers and
sympathies to his wife, family, and friends. Sincerely ~ Greg and Lois Stewart, Roakoke, Virginia
The first time I became aware of Dan was when I was 13...it was 1979.
I thought the song "Longer" was the most beautiful song in the world.
It truly spoke to me. I even wanted to sing it at our Catholic
School's Christmas Pageant, but the song was not to be allowed
(perhaps it was too modern).
I have always loved Dan's songs and will miss his presence, however he
is with God now and singing with all of the Angels.
My heart hurt when my daughter called to tell me of Dan Fogelberg's passing. We have lost an amazingly gentle soul who put our feelings into beautiful
and expressive words. I am grateful for the music he shared with us all - it
means so much still. ~
Bambi
I was very saddened to hear of Dan's passing. My prayers and thoughts go to his wife, family, and friends. May his memory and his music last and play forever. ~ david g.
My prayers go out to Dan and his family. He was an inspiration to many. I loved his music and it will live on in all of us. ~ Gene, VA
Dan Fogelberg's music has always been a part of my life. Growing up in Peoria, we always "knew" we had a connection with him. Eventually, I became friends with Dan's brother Pete. It was the thrill of my life to go to a concert in Peoria and hang out with Dan and his brother after the concert. I too have been gone from Peoria for many years but Dan's music has remained a part of my life. His incredible talent will live forever. We thank you for your sharing of this talent. ~ KK
Dan Fogelberg touched my life when I was 14 years old. I was looking in a
record store with my friend Keely, and we spotted him on a record entitled "Souvenirs". I bought the record, and have loved his special music ever
since. I will always remember his wonderful voice, beautiful music, and
inspiring words that helped me through some very hard times in my younger
years. He brought a lot to us, and he will be certainly missed. ~
Arlene Usery,
Roanoke, Virginia
I felt compelled to write a condolence to a songwriter who touched so many
lives. I have spent the last few days playing over and over songs that Mr. Fogelberg wrote that have become a part of my soul. He just simply knew how to express in song the deep feelings that only a few can put on paper. I am blessed to have been a part of the generation that could hear that lovely voice when he first spoke to us all. I will forever be thankful for the music he shared with us all.
We are all so blessed to have been given the gift of Dan's music. His words
gave us a view into his heart that we are so grateful for. Our thoughts and
prayers are with his family. Losing those we love is the toughest thing
we'll ever do. ~
Judy
Thanks for the music man. Sail on Dan. ~
Andrew Talbert,
North Carolina
Dan touched my heart and soul with his songs, in a way that nobody else did. I pray for
his wife, Jean, and the Fogelberg family. I hope to see Dan again someday -- somewhere
along the road. Godspeed, Dan. ~
Michael Wrenn
Once again our world loses one of its "Shining Lights" and...as it seems to happen so often...That light burns brightly for far too short a time. While I only knew Dan through his music and the occasional interview, I am deeply saddened by his passing. I most fervently hope that his final weeks, days and hours were spent in peace. I offer my sincere condolences to his wife Jean and to all members of his family. As it's been said numerous times, he will be missed greatly. Dan, may God bless and be with you as you begin your journey thru the "Spirit World". ~ Ron Mason
We were shocked and saddened to read of Dan's passing on Sunday. We had
several of his albums, and enjoyed his music. His lyrics were always
thought
provoking and reflective. My husband and I lived in Boulder, CO during the
mid-eighties, and became familiar with Dan's work through two mutual friends
named
J.T. and Cammie. Although we never met Dan, we heard many stories about
what an insightful and fun person they thought he was. We send our
blessings to
his wife and family. The earth plane has lost a great artist, but as I'm
sure you know, the music lives on! ~
Laura & Bruce,
Santa Fe, NM
Prayers go out to Dan's family in this time of sorrow and grief, so
poignantly arriving at the Christmas season. Dan's memory will live on forever through
his magnificent music and lyrics, so a part of him will remain with us
forever. We are grateful to have experienced and witnessed his God-given gifts.
Thank you for sharing him with his fans. ~ The Gormans
Here's to a life well lived.
Thanks for your music. ~
Arthur and Lila McDade,
Pigeon Forge, TN
Some years ago I spent an epoch of many depressions, losses and that is when God put in my way a video of titled Dan Fogelberg: Greetings from the West. There I got connected with his music and it came to me to fill the soul. I remember when I was saying that my church are the mountains, the seas, the wild places and it is these places to where I come to meet the God's presence.They give it did that I was becoming reconciled with myself. His music always accompanies me. His disc Portrait is my favorite and I listen to it continued since it inspires me to hear songs of his like "Run for the Roses", "Longer", "Leader of the Band" and others.
People like Dan are a gift from God. They will live forever in us in the place where nobody dies: the thought and the memory of his extraordinary music.
My condolences to his dear family. ~ Elias Benzadon,
San Antonio de los Altos, Venezuela
I have been a Dan fan for many years and his music brings back so many memories. I was fortunate to see him in concert here in Phoenix in May of 1984 when I took my friend, Lisa, on her birthday. We really enjoyed the show. Such beautiful music from a beautiful man. My condolences go out to the family. His music will live in our hearts forever. He will be missed. Rest in peace, Dan. ~ Julie Martinez
Thanks for the music, Dan.
Rest in Peace.
Dan really felt the world around him, felt the profound joy, the hope of life,
and the wistful passing of life's experiences and through his music awakened all
of that in us even during our worst times of drug escape. For that I and others
are eternally grateful. ~
James Roberts,
Madison, Wisconsin
Jean, It seems so strange to write to a person whom you have never met, yet through all the autobiographies, updates and photos that I have seen of Dan's life, I feel an almost kindred spirit. The holidays were always a time of year when I would find myself listening to Dan's deep and heartfelt lyrics that would allow me to sit back and reflect on my own past with a tear and a smile at the same time. Ironically, it's that time of year once again, and I will, as I always have before, listen to Dan, but this time reflecting on what he gave me all these years with a tear and a smile. Jean, I'm sure I'm not alone when I say, our prayers and thoughts are so much with you..... and so is Dan. ~ Lynne Reck of New Jersey
My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Fogelberg's family. I grew up enjoying his music and he will be missed. Yet, I know there will be a new star in heaven that will for now on shine brightly.
Sincerely yours ~
Mary K. Judge
My condolences to the wife and family of THE MUSICAL POET, a man that's
works will live in our hearts and souls forever.
I cannot express how deeply saddened I have been since I learned of Dan's passing. I have known and loved Dan's music since the 70's when I started listening to his records. He was a unique individual and artist and there never has been nor will there ever be another like him. I pray that he is in heaven singing with the angels. Even though he is not with us anymore, he is not forgotten, and he will live on in his music. May God bless you during this difficult time and may you know He is there to help you through this most trying time. ~ Kathie - San Diego
I was so saddened to hear about Dan. I loved his music, it moved me in
ways no other has;
I especially love "Run For The Roses". He was so young and it's so tragic; what a legacy he's left.
It will live forever, he will be remembered. ~
Rosie in Danville, CA
Dear Jean:
I don't know you, and I can't begin to imagine your grief. All I know is that I was
saddened and shocked to get my iTunes email and see the "Dan Fogelberg Remembered"
headline. I didn't know that he had passed.
I was the heartsick teen when I first started listening to your Dan in 1974. He could so
easily make me cry. I continued listening and buying his albums, and loving his prose,
and beautiful melodies. He really spoke to me, as he did to so many.
I was fortunate to see him while living in NM, twice in Santa Fe. Once he played in some
little dive of a bar near Inn @ Loretto, with some blues band. He was just like one of
the guys in the band, no solos, and no familiar songs. I admit that I was really
disappointed, thinking that I was finally going to see Dan, when in fact, he was just one
of the band members. He seemed to enjoy his relative anonymity of that night, and at one
point, signaled to my friend & I some understanding that we knew who he was, although
others weren't aware. (If that makes any sense...) It appeared that no one else knew who
he was, nor cared. They just totally rocked out and danced their asses off with the band.
We did have a blast that night.
I finally got my chance to see him, sans band, @ Paolo Solari, in '97. Wow, what a
beautiful night it was. Perfect NM sky, starry, not too chilly for a desert summer
night... I didn't realize that he had hurt one of his main guitar fingers before that,
because we didn't have computers then; you didn't have access to info like now. (I
wouldn't be able to convey my sympathy to you, for that matter, without the technology.)
All I know is that I finally got to hear him sing some of my favorite tunes, and the
venue was so intimate that it felt like he was in my living room. My friend Rik and I (he
was with me in the early '80s at the aforementioned blues show) floated that night, on
the crisp NM sky. I add that evening to one of my special memories of great live music by
a much-loved artist. I feel so fortunate that things worked out; he had healed and was
able to play again. I feel so fortunate that it wasn't cancelled, because I had moved
back to my hometown of Lancaster, PA (in 1986) and had planned my summer trip to NM,
around his concert, buying the tickets well in advance. So it was a happy ending to hear
him live, singing his well-crafted melodies.
So Mrs. Fogelberg, please accept my condolences to you. I hope that you have many
beautiful memories with your lovely Dan, and you can heal and move on. I wish you and his
family and loved ones well... Peace to you at this difficult time.
Namaste ~
Kassie Schelling
I just heard the news of Dan's passing. I was shocked as I did not know of his battle with cancer. What a wonderful and talented man. He inspired me as a young troubled teenager to learn the guitar and his music still to this day brings such joy to me. His family and the world have lost a special man - but he will live on forever in so many hearts through the legacy he has left behind via his music. ~
Laura from Maryland
Christmas has always brought the playing of "Same Old Lang Syne" on our local radio
stations for as long as I can remember. Reflection on what could have been.
Enlightenment that what WE have done or become was the correct path to follow. The man
behind the music will be greatly missed, and hearing "Same Old Lang Syne" will have new
meaning. The snow has turned in to rain. ~ Tony Brandin, Crestview, Florida
How saddened I was to hear of Dan's passing. He touched my life in a very
big way when I lost the love of my life in the 1980's. I saw Dan in
Nashville, Tennessee in the 1980's when he was working on some music. He
actually took a great deal of time with me and we talked about losing the
ones we love. That meeting and conversation along with all of Dan's music
really helped me get through some really sad and dark times. What a
wonderful man. How blessed we were and still are to have had the privilege
of having Dan really share so much of himself through his music. ~ Elizabeth -
Atlanta, GA
The Fogelberg Family,
I cannot tell you how much Dan's music has meant to me. From the first time
I heard his album "Home Free" it touched something within me. It is strange
how someone I never met, is also someone I have become to know so well and
who has so much in common with me. His music transcended so much and will
continue in my heart. God bless your family during this difficult time. ~
Kim Everton-Brown
I was first introduced to Dan's music in the mid 70s when I was in my early 20s. I've
loved his music and remained a devoted fan all these years. How gifted he was! He
brought so much pleasure, inspiration, enjoyment and happiness to so many. My thoughts
and prayers are with you, his family and dear friends now as you grieve his loss. His
songs brought tears to my eyes on so many occasions as I am sure you have tears in yours
now. I only wished I would have had an opportunity to know him. He will be missed...he
will not be forgotten. His music will live on. God bless. ~
Dal Asher,
U.S. State Department
Posted in Montreal
Godspeed, Dan. "Same Old Lang Syne" has been my Holiday song since the day
I heard it. It brings back so many nostalgic thoughts about what life "was"
so many years ago. Relationships from our pasts...
You will be missed, but your stories about life will live on in your music.
God bless your family during this tough time and Holiday Season. ~ Bob Krantz, Newburgh,Indiana
Our sincere condolences to Dan's wife and family. My wife and I and both of our daughters were deeply saddened by Dan’s young
departure. My wife and I have been avid fans and lovers of his music since
1972
and we have taken both of our daughters ages 17 and 21 to Dan’s concerts and
they too
are part of Dan’s next generation of Fogelberg lovers.
I am still in shock. I am a special Ed teacher and the morning I heard the
news, I sang with guitar - a couple of Dan’s songs to my young
kindergartners, 1st and 2nd graders… they were not familiar with the songs but they saw the
tears in my eyes and I told them about Dan and how he has touched my family's
and friends' lives.
I heard a friend of mine singing his original songs and performing them on
piano – he is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and performer. He wrote a rock
opera that was performed in London. I went up to speak with him after his
performance and I told him that he is “the Dan Fogelberg” of singing and songwriting of spiritual songs. He immediately responded saying “That is the
nicest compliment that I have received in my life, it means so much and I will
cherish those words in my heart”. He dearly loved and cherished Dan’s songwriting and musicianship… as we all do.
He will be sorely missed and I think we really still are in shock and do
not fully realize the breadth of his contribution to our world and the world of
music…
Love ~ Randy, Pattie, Emily and Elizabeth
I will always remember how your music kept me from being afraid driving home in deep snow from the hospital after working evenings as a nurse. Your voice had such a calming influence and I made it every time. I was blessed to have your music in my life for the past 23 years and for the rest of my life. I pray you are at peace and safe at home now, too. God has taken you from us, but I hope to see you in concert once again when we are all safely home. ~ Debbie
Jean: Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. He was a great
singer and person. I grew up to Dan and was always touched by the sincerity
of his lyrics how they touch me. Now that I am in my thirties I still listen
to him express some of my deepest thoughts through song. It was a gift to
be allowed to know him through song. ~ Cherie R. Gunn
Thank God we had the singer, songwriter, artist Dan was and is. ~ Jack & Linda Nunley, WI
Dan's music has been a part of my life for a long time. Though the music will go on there seems to be a broken chord now. Thanks Dan. ~ MBW
My thoughts and prayers go out to Dan and Jean. Godspeed Dan, you forever changed so many
lives with your words and music.
Condolences to the family of Dan Fogelberg. We share your loss as we have lost a man of character who loved Mother Earth, Native peoples and their spirituality and a man who has touched so many with his gift of songwriting and musical ability. I am very sad but his legacy will live in our hearts forever and heaven has gained another angel. Thank you Dan for sharing your gifts with us. ~
Homer Wiggins
I will think of you as I hike every peak in the mountains of my
life.
Thanks for the legacy you have left to all of us.
We are mourning ... Heaven is rejoicing.
Dan's music was a true inspiration from the time I first heard "Part of
the Plan" on the radio as a junior high student in northern Illinois.
The album Souvenirs got so much turntable action amongst my group of
friends that it became scratched and even skipped a bit. But the elegant
voice, fearless acoustic guitar and soaring harmonies were undeniable.
We will all miss Dan, but we know in our hearts he's in a better place.
God bless your soul, Dan Fogelberg. ~
Jeff Rosenberg
When my husband and i first started dating (around 1986,) he used to play Dan's albums
for me, over and over. He was so excited about Dan's music. "You have to listen to
this one. Read the lyrics...." Dan was his absolute favorite and quickly became mine.
These last two days have been truly sad for us, as Dan's music is a major part of our
history as a couple. We will miss him so much, but his music will live forever and we
will never forget him. ~ Judy, Hinsdale, IL