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Gary Schense Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Gary Schense
Paul Cosek
January 9, 2009
I'm Sorry To Be so late with this, But I was just given this sad news. The night before last. Wow. where do i start .When My Old Friend and band mate John McAfee and myself were on the phone ,night before last, For the first time in years and he told me of Gary's passing .
Gary, John, Bob Holder and myself Put the Keystone band together as young High school Student's. My favorite memory of Gary was He would get his acoustic guitar out during our Night of playing a Dance or Company Party. and Gary would play the Song, Blackbird , And I would sing it. Funny to think anytime in my life since then ,when I would hear that Beatles song, I would always think of Gary. Gary And I were Good friends , Inside and outside of the Band . years down the road , no matter what Band I would be in ,Gary would be at my back. With encouragement , Back during last new Year's Holiday . Gary and i My spaced each other
And We spoke of getting together my next trip down to Battle Creek, Unfortunately , Work And playing music weekends did not let that happen. Another great time together with Gary was the many trips to Emilieos We made . Mrs Schense , and Bob and the rest of the Family , my heart goes out to you. Gary your Forever friend . Paul
Penny Schense Welch
November 18, 2008
So very sorry to learn of Gary's passing. I have fond memories from a few Schense gatherings.
Brenda Jones
November 11, 2008
Gone but not forgotten...till we meet again. Long Lost Cousin...Brenda
Tim Flo
November 4, 2008
I've been thinking about Gary's passing and it occurred to me that I had never heard anyone say a bad word about him. He was such a great guy and had many interests and hobbies, not to mention his considerable musical talents.
He and I recorded a lot of music for each other and jammed many times over the years. We went to concerts and hit the music stores in Kalamazoo and Lansing. He always had a great sense of humor and was always willing to do anything for anybody. He helped me record some music for a class project when I went back to college.
The love and respect that everybody had for Gary was evident at his visitation at the funeral home. Many stories were told of experiences shared and things he had done for people and how easy he was to get along with. He was truly one of my favorite people and I will miss him a lot.
"Hitting The Trails Again" Left: Brian Solomon - Right: Gary Schense
October 25, 2008
Brian Solomon
October 25, 2008
Man, I never thought I’d be writing this. My father just notified me of Gary’s passing. I am so, so sorry in one way and yet comforted in another knowing that he’s in a truly awesome place today. While I know I am going to miss a million things here, I wanted to toss out some stuff that I remember as a best friend and neighbor throughout our entire childhood. From kindergarten through about our junior year at Lakeview High School, Gary lived on Lincolnwood drive and I lived just across his backyard on a street named Chalmers drive. Gary’s grandfather unknowingly passed on some incredible things to him, which Gary very kindly passed on to me. Gary had this thing called a “HAM radio” which was the coolest thing ever. I remember it was a Hallicrafters HF band. When I’d spend the night over at his house he used to tune in people from all around the world on that thing – it was so cool. We both studied up on the technical stuff learned Morse code and eventually got our amateur radio licenses. Before getting our licenses, we would honestly walk or ride our bicycles (Gary had a very cool Schwinn Apple Crate) from our neighborhood for miles stopping at every house that had a HAM radio antenna and knock on their door. We were always greeted the same way anyone would greet two longhaired (just over the ears) young boys at that time. However, when we mentioned our admiration for their HAM radio antenna, we were very much welcomed in to check out the owner’s radio gear. One crazy thing I have to mention is the unique way we learned the Morse code. Gary had some books (from grandpa I suppose) and he also had an acoustic guitar. Yes, we did actually learn Morse code using a guitar. This leads into the next part of the story. Another key piece of “gear” left by his grandfather was an Electrovoice microphone on a stand and a hand full of speakers. Add this to a drum set his brother Bob had and some young imaginations and you’ve got your first rock band. Gary played the guitar and sang while I, with some quick lessons from his brother Bob, would bang on the drums. After playing what I think was “Sunshine of your love” by Cream, we officially named our 2-man band “Sunkist”. If I remember correctly, the name came from a cardboard Sunkist orange sign that Gary had that fit nicely on the front of the bass drum. We soon wised up and came up with the, much cooler name “The One Eyed Creatures”. We continued on our path of growing up. We started riding mini-bikes (Gary had a sweet Honda 50), then on to bigger dirt bikes for a long time. We’d ride all year round. We still had (sleepovers as they call them now days) where I’d be at his house or vise versa. It was the same either way. He had a pool /Ping-Pong table in the basement and we had the same. Usually, I would step in a puddle of dog pee when playing pool/pong at his house or the same would happen to Gary at my house. I remember that Gary had an “Easy bake oven”. This thing made some of the best stuff for those late nights when you’re waiting for your socks to dry from an earlier game of pool/pong. I think this is how Gary became such a darn good cook on top of everything else. We dabbled in many things over the years, a few of which were making tennis ball cannons, making our own black powder from scratch, (we smashed up charcoal briquettes for the charcoal part) and even a short stint on the CB radio when it was cool. For the record, Gary’s CB handle was the “Bus Driver”. Something else that just popped into my head while tying this was a time when we were horseback ridding at a friends house and Gary’s horse decided to run full-speed into the barn with just enough room for the horse to fit through. This incident let Gary with a pretty scared up hand, but obviously never ever impacted his craftsmanship with the Guitar. While Gary and I drifted apart later on in high school, I was fortunate enough to be able to stand in for one of his band’s guitarists and jam with him all night at one of his gigs. I was also blessed that he was able to attend my wedding. I’m going to stop here, because I can go on for weeks if I keep thinking back. I will see you again – Take care my very good friend…
Matthew Link
October 16, 2008
Gary and his family were oare next door neighbors for over 20 years. Although Gary was 8 years older then me. He was always very nice to me and we played basketball a lot. Through the football and baseball. We talked about baseball cards a lot as I'm a collector also. I remember his music playing. From all of us Links from Texas to Georgia you and your family are in our prayers.
Ron Dundon
October 16, 2008
To the Schense family I send my sincerest sympathies. I didn't know Gary very well but met him through a mutual friend, Joseph Zidarevich. We jammed a few times and Gere, as we knew him, was a real talent. But beyond that he was just a good human being, caring and thoughtful and knowledgeable. He will be missed.
Roxanne Jones
October 12, 2008
My sympathies go out to Gary's family and friends. We went through school together from kindergarten all the way up through highschool.
We grew up in the same neighborhood, climbing trees, riding bikes and playing ball in the back yards.
He is included in many of my childhood memories.
Keith Senne
October 12, 2008
A
true friend who cared about everyone more than himself. Multitalented,
cant say enough about him, will miss you very much Gary but will always
think of you when hearing the music and knowing the comfort you will
bring to me knowing that you were a part of my life that touched me and
a lot of other people and that was a gift that you gave to all of us.
This is Keystone "1979" Gary is on the far Right, Myself(John McAfee) far left, Rick Britton on drums and Jon Engle Bass guitar. Quite possibly one of the finest bands to come from the Battle Creek area!
October 12, 2008
John and Tess Gooch
October 10, 2008
I have known Gary for 30+ years. We became best friends many years ago and have been hrough alot! This guy, without a doubt, was a Godsend. He got me into Ham Radio years ago and encouraged me to keep going and get my private pilots license. He was a great all around guy and will be missed more than words could ever say! Our deepest sympathy goes out
to the love of his life Christy, his mother Maxine, his brother Bob and sister-in-law Lynn. God Bless you Buddy! John and Tess Gooch.
Dale Lester
October 10, 2008
To Christi and family I got home thursday night from out of town to find my answering machine flooded with news of Garys passing. I knew Gary for 30 years as a great musician and friend. I totally enjoyed performing with Gary, and the nights after the job even more. Sure gonna miss ya Gary
Duke E. Stains
October 10, 2008
One Cool Cat,
"Gabba Gabba Hey"
Steve Cope
October 10, 2008
I went to Westlake Elementary with Gary. One morning I walked into his basement with Brian Solomon and I couldn't believe that Gary had his own band set up down there...at the age of 11! This inspired me years later to pick up a bass and start my own band. Gary, you will be missed.
Mike Pontoni
October 10, 2008
Great guitar player and friend.
Gary, Cindi and the Packer fan Club, 2007
October 10, 2008
Bruce Barea
October 10, 2008
Cindi and Maxine:
Gary was such a wonderful person and a great friend growing up on Lincolnwood.
We both loved basketball and played one on one, even in the middle of the winter. Keeping a ball inside on a heating vent, playing with another. When it went soft because of the cold, we would would run in and switch balls and keep playing.
Gary even tried to get me to learn to play drums and be in one of his frist bands, I think in Junior High or early HS. But I just did not have the time or talent.
We both loved the Packers and it was great meeting Christi at the Moonraker the last few years as Gary and our Packer fan club cheered for the Pack in victory and defeat.
He was always a great guy and gentlemen and this town and world has lost a true friend.
Gary, say hi to our Dads in heaven!
Bruce & Anne Barea and Leigh, Mickey and Lou.
Paula Thompson
October 10, 2008
I did not know Gary but work with Christi. Christi, I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Dean & Cindee Chadderdon
October 10, 2008
To our friend - we will miss you. You were always there for all of us. Your music talent inspired us and gave us joy. Your smile comforted us. Heaven has gained a great peson and a fantastic guitar player.
To Gary's loved ones - We share your loss and are here to support you in this difficult time. Please be comforted by recognizing all of the lives that Gary touched and enriched. God bless you for the love that you shared with Gary.
Jon Engel
October 10, 2008
I played in Keystone and the Itch with Gary. During our year "on the road" in Keystone Gary got the unenviable job of keeping me company during the day and racing to sleep before I started snoring at night. We were very close then and Gary was always a great friend even as the years and commitments made visits scarce. It was great to see Gary at a recent gig of mine. He looked great and for a brief moment it seemed just like old times.
The thing that strikes me the most about Gary is whenever his name is brought up in conversation everyone say’s the same thing. "What a great guy". He will be missed tremendously.
John Conley
October 10, 2008
I was part of Gary's extended 'Punk' musical family. We played on the same bill too many times to count and he was an exciting and proficient performer. Gary was always fun, friendly and positive. He will be missed by any and all who came in contact with him.
John ?Rank? Conley
Jean Harvey-Clark
October 10, 2008
If you believe in forever
Then life is just a one-night stand
If there's a rock and roll heaven
Well you know they've got a hell of a band
Judith Campbell-Rootes
October 10, 2008
Goodbye to a REALLY NEAT CLASSMATE from the Lakeview
High School Class of 1979!
We Will Miss You Alot!!!
Jim Klein
October 10, 2008
I had known Gary for more than 30 years and had never known him to be anything except a great guy. You will be sorely missed, Gary.
Don & Kathy Gray
October 9, 2008
To Gary's famliy, We have been neighbors of Gary's for several years and past musician, he was a great neighbor always had a friendly smile. He will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dennis Brwon
October 9, 2008
Gary,
We used to have alot of fun online at Hi-Lex, talking sports, fantasy drafts and talking music. I have been talking to the old gang alot lately and we are all at a loss for words. Your going to be missed.
Shannon Brown
October 9, 2008
Gary Gar~
We had so many good times on-line at work. I remember your constant cups of coffee, those red safety glasses, talking music with ya and hearing about your next gig, laughing at so many things.... from jokes... to the conduit swinging show that crazy girl on our line put on that day! Nobody really wanted to be there, but we sure made it fun. You have been thought of and missed much around Hi-Lex Gary Ann (a nick-name I gave ya). I will always remember your smile along with the little wave I can see ya doing with it.
Your Friend~Shante'
Cindy Curtis
October 9, 2008
Gary was such a special person. I met him in the early 80's and I always liked him. He was always kind, sincere and always smiled. I ran into Gary a few years ago at the gas station and I made him come over to my car to see my new puppy. And yes, he was smiling. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. He will be missed.
sandy davis
October 9, 2008
I met Gary at high school. Then I worked with him for years. Watched him play in bands around town.What a great guy. Sure will miss ya Gary. Rock On!
Sandy (morgan)Davis & Frank Davis
John McAfee
October 9, 2008
Gary was my good friend and band mate for our entire High school carreer. We played together in the band "Keystone" all over the battle creek area. Gary and I did the tour of Europe as accompaniest musicians in the summer of 1978 with the Lakeview Spartanaires. My career and family has kept me away from Battle Creek since my father passed away and my Mother and siblings moved away, It hurts my heart to not have been able to share stories and memories with Gary. He was such a great guy. He and I cut our musical teeth together, and whenever I see a cream colored Strat, or an old faded cherry Gibson SG, or an old Fender bassman I think of Gary and his signature style that was truly unique to him. We'll all miss you here Gary, but we will jam together again my brother! Love to all that loved him.
John McAfee - Toledo, Ohio
Dave, Tammy and Harrison Payne
October 9, 2008
Chris,
We are so sorry for your loss. Though we never got to know the "musician" side of Gary, we did get to know him as part of our family. The few times we all went fishing and every summer, especially this past one, it was always so wonderful to see him at Harrison's (your nephew) Little League games. You could tell by the smile on his face that he sure did get a kick watching the little boys play ball. And he sure loved cheering Harrison on . . . We love you Chris and please know that all three of us our here for you to lean on and cry with!
Love your family,
Bill Price
October 9, 2008
Gary was one of the kindest most genuine people I ever met. He always had time for everyone he came in contact with. I will remember him for his vast knowledge of all genres of music and his excellent guitar playing. Gary was a pleasure to be around and a wonderful person to talk to on a variety of topics. My deepest sympathies and wishes for comfort to all who are close to him. I will miss him.
Alan Narmore
October 9, 2008
Schense Family,
Gary was a kind, honest, wonderful and musically gifted person. He touched a lot of lives and brought warmth and happiness to many people. He taught me how to play the guitar and changed my life. It was an honor to call him my friend. I am so sorry for your loss.
Jenny Brettin
October 9, 2008
Gary will truely be missed by everyone who knew him. Christi please remember that we all love you and are here for you. We got to know Gary through his playing at local bars. He was always quiet till he got to know you. Super guy you couldn't ask for anyone better. We were all shocked to hear the sad news as we just saw him a little over a week ago. We are glad that he came out to the race track in August and had fun with all of us. He truely will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Our hearts are with you Christi.
John, Jenny, Cheyanne and Elizabeth Felter
Paul Meisterheim
October 9, 2008
To Gary's family, my heartfelt condolence goes out to at this difficult time. I was a classmate of Gary's from Lakeview (Class of '79). And would occassionaly see Gary perform around town with his band. He would always make time to say "HI" and chat and catch up on past memories. Gary always had a big smile on his face.
Toni Gooding
October 9, 2008
Hey GarGar, Love ya and always will miss you. How's it shakin on the other side?? Love Ya Toni.
vera lautzenheiser
October 9, 2008
Everyone at Hi-Lex America that had worked with Gary knows he was one hell of a great guy. Easy to get along with, very dependable and a hard worker. We will and have missed having Gary around all of us here. Christi, Maxine and Bob you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Your Boss and Friend....V
cindy sanders hi-lex
October 9, 2008
to all of Gary's family, my heart goes out to you. he was a wonderful man, kind, funny, and great to be around. many of us have missed him being around at work! many thoughts and prayers in your time of sorrow.
Deb Zidarevich
October 9, 2008
To the family of Gary Schense - We have had the priviledge of knowing Gary for nearly 30 years. Gary was a very dear and close friend of ours. We will surely miss his frequent visits to our home to play guitar, watch concerts and share band stories. He and Mike really enjoyed that! Even though Gary was ill, he never let anyone know how he felt - he was more interested in how YOU were! We so enjoyed meeting Christie this summer at our 4th of July party - we kidded Gary that we finally got to meet her after 13 years! We are so sorry for your loss, but we know Gary is in a better place - We're sure he will teach the angels how to play guitar! Gary - we love you! You will truely be missed by all who knew you! With deepest sympathy, Mike and Deb Zidarevich
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