Add a Memory
Make a Donation
SONOMA, Calif. Longtime Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack, a native of Paterson, has died at age 65.
The band's manager, Bruce Cohn, said in a statement that Mr. Hossack, one of the band's two drummers, died of cancer on Monday in his home in Dubois, Wyo.
Mr. Hossack began playing drums in the Little Falls Cadets, a Boy Scout drum and bugle corps, according to the Doobie Brothers official website. He credited his drum instructors, Joe Whelan (Little Falls Cadets), Bob Peterson (Our Lady of Lourdes Cadets), and George Tuttle (Fair Lawn Cadets) for teaching him the disciplines of playing with other drummers.
"People always ask me of it's hard to play with another drummer. I tell them that after playing along with up to twelve 12 other drummers at once in the drum corps, this is a snap!" Cossack Mr. Hossack said.
Mr. Hossack played with the group from 1971 to 1973 and rejoined in 1987. His drumming can be heard on early hits including "Listen to the Music," "China Grove" and "BlackwaterBlack Water." He stopped performing with the band two years ago while struggling with cancer.
Doobie Brothers co-founder Tom Johnston said, "Mike has always been a part of my musical life and the life of the Doobie Brothers. ... He was an incredible musician."
Mr. Hossack served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. He is survived by a son and a daughter.
173 Entries
Great time with you and Mark Russo playing pool during the blizzard in Stamford! Fond memories live forever!
robert whitty
Friend
June 21, 2020
Blu Bell
September 20, 2019
What were you going through my friend........wish I could have been there for you. Nothing but good times Big Mike. R.I.P!
Joseph Waleski
Friend
July 31, 2019
Valenda Newell
July 7, 2017
First met "Big Mike" in the early 70's.What a guy and a great drummer. You and Keith sure did a hell of a job. Will never forget how friendly you have been to Gayle and I over the years.
Will miss you forever.
Torrey Leininger
July 20, 2016
xxxooo
March 12, 2015
Hey you. I have prayed really hard that my dad share my feeling that you are the most hilarious person ever. And I feel like it worked. It sucks for us that all of the best drummers are up there now...but I feel good knowing that he gets all your jokes now. I miss you.
Dayna Knudsen
December 27, 2012
A great musician who contributed so much during his lifetime.He will be sadly missed by so many over here in the UK.Rest in Peace.
John Riding
December 20, 2012
RIP Michael...I will always remember the fun we had at Bodega. Love you, Maureen
October 6, 2012
So Sorry to hear the news, Vancouver will miss you, in our hearts forever.
Peace and Love
JL Robertson
July 13, 2012
WILLIAM TEER
May 3, 2012
Sending love and light to Michael's family and friends.
Raé Miller
April 26, 2012
RIP Mike, I will miss your incredible talent. We have met several times, being a fellow drummer we shared some great memories. My sincere sympathy to your family and all the all "THE BROTHERS".
Greg Goodall
April 5, 2012
terry barbay
April 4, 2012
I will miss you in Dallas with chicago. You are the man. The drums in heaven will love you.
Terry Barbay
April 4, 2012
Although we didn't spend alot of time together, what little time we did was very memorable for me. I wish I made more time for us. I miss you and love you. Rest in peace Uncle Mike.
Craig Hossack
March 23, 2012
R.i.P
arnold martinez
March 21, 2012
I wish to extend to you and to members of your family my deepest sympathy on your loss. May the Lord's loving promises comfort you and give you strength as you walk through this difficult time. "Honoring Those Who Served-Ministry" -Chaplain Richard Reuer, 1206 6th St SW, Minot, ND 58701
Chaplain Richard Reuer
March 21, 2012
RIP Mike. It was a pleasure to know you and your music. Everyone here in little ole Topaz have fond memories of you. I loved it when you would occasionaly call me at the p.o. just to say hi when you were on tour. Prayers to your family.
sue
March 21, 2012
Mike , will miss you . The memories of you me , Mike K. and his dog Sid are with me forever. Miss you brother. Rest in peace and thanx for the memories.
Ray Dorst
March 20, 2012
May God bless you and your family Michael. We will always "Listen to the Music" and think of your wonderful talent forever silenced. From the city that brings you the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Cleveland, Ohio
March 20, 2012
Heaven now has a Doobie Angel! RIP Micheal your music will be FOREVER... may all your sweet memories keep your family and friends going thur this tough time may god be with each and everyone you always... LOVE FROM A FAN
March 20, 2012
Losing a musical talent is always a tragedy for everyone. May the grace of God hold you tightly as you celebrate his life and mourn his passing.
Somebody in Syracuse, NY
March 19, 2012
It was an honor to meet such a talent. Your music will carry forever. Our prayers to your family .Rest in peace
Arthur Katz
March 19, 2012
GOD BLESS YA MIKE. AND MAY GOD COMFORT YOUR FAMILY IN THIS TIME OF SORROW. AND MAY CONDOLENCES TO ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE DOOBIES..I'LL KEEP LISTENING TO THE MUSIC THATS FOR SURE...
B WEAVER
March 18, 2012
my prayer go out to his family and friends and fans
sherry martin
March 18, 2012
My sympathy goes to the family and friends of Michael Hossack. Remember to always pray and never give up.
March 18, 2012
Mike will be missed. I hope that comforts you in your sad time.
Tony
March 18, 2012
Michael was an excellent drummer. Glad he was in The Doobie Brothers band. My sympathies to the family.
Sara
March 18, 2012
thank you for so many wonderful tunes..
my fav. being Jesus hes my friend!!God bless & enjoy heaven..
DEAN&KIM WOODS
March 18, 2012
My condolences to the family of Mr Michael Hossock please take comfort in the hope that is held out for all those asleep in death,to live again.
J. morgan
March 18, 2012
My condolences to the family in your time of loss. Know that God will comfort your heart as you put your trust in him.
Geline
March 18, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Adrian Barnette
March 18, 2012
God Bless You Michael and your family. I am glad I had a chance to meet you. Thanks for the drum stick.
Richard Brown
March 17, 2012
A great group of musicians, always enjoyed their music and the world has lost another great contributor to the music industry. My condolences to his family and The Doobie Brothers
Tommy Casterlin
March 17, 2012
I'm so very sorry to hear of Michael's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones, and i'll always have good memories. God bless you Michael...
desiree holmes
March 17, 2012
I was your biggest fan!! Hundreds of concerts!! RIP my friend and I will come to visit you someday!
Peace, Fontana
Fontana Clater
March 17, 2012
aalways enjoyed the doobie brothers ---my thoughts and prayers will go out to him and his family -.
rick
March 17, 2012
I enjoyed their music so much and my prayers go out to his family.
Lisa Greene
March 17, 2012
I did not know his name but I knew of the Doobie Brothers. I loved them. We send our condolences to the family. Very soon, sickness and death will be no more.
valerie valentine
March 17, 2012
Passing of a love one can be devastating. With prayer and time it will help you. "Throw your burden upon God himself, and he himself will sustain you". Ps. 55:22
Cheryl Moore
March 17, 2012
its said to see a drummer like Michael Hossack leave use because of cancer. A day where no one sick will walk the face of this earth would be a dream come true. A thought that keeps me happy and that i have faith that gods says that "no one will say i'm sick" and that always brings me joy and excitement.
March 17, 2012
j j
March 17, 2012
I didn't know him or any of his family,but my thoughts & prayers go out to his family for your loss of Michael .
May God Bless You All !
Pam Rogers
March 17, 2012
So sorry to hear about the loss of his life. He will never be forgotten by those who new him. May peace continue to be with your family and those who knew him!
Nancy McCartney
March 16, 2012
our condolences to the family of Michael Hossack our prayers and thoughts go out to you we say Mike at Neimans a few times and he was a great guy you will be missed
The Cole Family
Frances Cole
March 16, 2012
Thanks Mike, you were always upbeat, funny, generous, kind, and had an incredible ability to rebound after so many difficult situations in your life. You will never be forgotten, and i will remember your smile, good heart, and your friends that introduced me to your presence.
Rest in peace my friend Mao 040
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8uCryLHnt4s
micahel Ortiz
March 16, 2012
I worked on two albums with Michael and will never forget him for all the help he gave me. He truly gave invaluable aid and advice more than anyone knows. I appreciate him and mourn his loss. RM
Rodney Mills
March 16, 2012
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
March 16, 2012
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
March 16, 2012
Michael, you and the Doobies were the best and one of my favorite all time bands. I grew up with your music, and will always remember how great the Doobies are!
Chuck G
March 16, 2012
Michael my Heart is sadded from your loss you were my Generation Music .I remember Listening to The Doobies in 1986 ,I loved your music from that day on .Michael PRAYER GOES out to your children and fAMILY and to your second Family The DOOBIES.ROCK ON for your music will always Live on .RIP MICHAEL
Debra Arm
March 16, 2012
Joe Crayton Clinard Jr We remember them and what a group, had them in 2 concerts in both Winston Salem and Asheville.
16 minutes ago · Like
Joe Crayton Clinard Jr Doobie Brothers Listen To The Music LIVE Midnight Special 1973 (Many of us covered this great song and others...I post this because I do think Michael was with the band on this tape (jOe) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOTr_4Zs_Us
Doobie Brothers Listen To The Music LIVE Midnight Special 1973
www.youtube.com
Doobie Brothers Listen To The Music LIVE Midnight Special 1973
5 minutes ago · Like ·
Joe Crayton Clinard Jr Just like Terry Kath Guitar playing with Chicago the Doobies 2 Drummers was sometimes over looked as how important it was and how it set them apart and took them to the next level on stage and live..Michael RIP
Bikini Joe Carolina Music and Bands
March 16, 2012
Music is truly and wonderful gift from our Heavenly Father. May the family of Michael Hossack be comforted by his wonderful musical memories.
March 16, 2012
Michael you will be missed,I remember hearing Listen to the Music for the first time,I was 15 at the time,and I was hooked.Saw the Doobies in 1986 free concert in San Jose,Ca.My condolences to the family and the rest of the Doobies,Rest in Peace.
Paul L Martinez
March 15, 2012
James Crest
March 15, 2012
Michael "Mikey" Hossack, we'll miss you on drums until we meet again at the big concert in the sky...
I have my tickets to the Avila Beach, California concert in May, and will be thinking about you ~ oh, black water!!
As ever,
~LWM Jr.
March 15, 2012
Mikey - Being 61 yrs old I still can't remember a drummer that could carry a song like you. You deserve to be known as the best. RIP Brother.
stan goldinger
March 15, 2012
With deepest sympathy to the Hossack family during your time of grief...Psalm 46:1...God is for us a refuge and strength, A help that is readily to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.
March 15, 2012
All of a sudden there's a hole in the music world.
Bob
March 15, 2012
R.I.P. We appreciate all the good music that you put out through the years. Our condolence goes out to your family , and your son and daughter. Sincerly, John and Kathy Price Lansing , Mi.
John ,Kathy Price
March 15, 2012
Thanks Mike,you were always part of my routeen for warm ups .
Dave
March 15, 2012
God bless you and your loved ones ~ I will continue to love your music.
R.I.P.
March 15, 2012
Thank you for the wonderful music you gave us all; I've always enjoyed your sounds and hope God speeds you straight into His arms. (Cara Washington Jackson, Cincinnati, OH)
Cara Washington Jackson
March 15, 2012
RIP Your songs will forever be in my life and in me
stephen skaggs
March 15, 2012
Death, be not proud
Death, be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so;
For those whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow
Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.
From rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be,
Much pleasure; then from thee much more must flow,
And soonest our best men with thee do go,
Rest of their bones, and soul's delivery.
Thou art slave to fate, chance, kings, and desperate men,
And dost with poison, war, and sickness dwell,
And poppy or charms can make us sleep as well
And better than thy stroke; why swell'st thou then?
One short sleep past, we wake eternally
And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die.
By John Donne
The Poetry Foundation
March 15, 2012
From one musician whom your music has inspired, I just want to thank you for the infinate mark you have left in this world and beautiful music you and the doobie brothers made in your time rest in piece and my condolences to your family
Robbie Woodard
March 15, 2012
Rest in peace Michael. Thanks for the great music.
Diana Reynolds
March 15, 2012
God bless your in this difficult time
Rosalinda Lucero
March 15, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss. " May the God who gives you peace be with you." Rom. 15:33
ms
March 14, 2012
GOD needed a GOOD drummer for his new band,he chose you.Thank you for years of enjoyment you gave to me.Rest now my friend.
Rev. Brian Browder
March 14, 2012
My Sincere Condolences to the family. Michael not only inspired me but my brother also whom became a great drummer. We cannot thank you enough for those Great Memories of the music we all still play. It was a time when music was MUSIC! My condolences to the Doobie Brothers also. A Forever Fan! God Bless!
Mark Zawko
March 14, 2012
Lord,Be with the family and friends ! RIP !!
Larry Castille
March 14, 2012
Your music will never die .............RIP!
Deb Westendorf
March 14, 2012
THANK YOU..............Robert (bakersfield, ca)
March 14, 2012
RIP. Thank you for being a big part of my life by being such a big part of The Doobie Brothers. Always one of my favorite all time groups. I will always remember passing through China Grove while traveling near San Antonio. Peace to you and God bless
Tony Flores
March 14, 2012
"oh i built me a raft and she's ready for floating.." float on in peace and love
kim
March 14, 2012
I was lucky enough to meet Mike on a few occasions and he was always a very nice, sweet man. So sad to hear about his cancer and his passing. My prayers to his family....
Cheryl
March 14, 2012
Michael was one of the greatest, if not perhaps the greatest, groove drummers that ever played. He was a musical hero for many drummers like myself who admired the inventiveness of his playing behind a large polished band.
Raymond Goodrich
March 14, 2012
Fond memories a bygone era and a everlasting longing for them back. (RIP) Ur music will live on............
Lee
March 14, 2012
Grew up with your music and loved it all....You will be missed....God Bless you
Darlene Rice
March 14, 2012
Rest In Peace,Mike. Thank=You For All The Great Music You Made With The Doobie Brothers.My Heartfelt Sympathy To His Family.
Linda Hoski
March 14, 2012
Michael Clark Fellow Drumer God Bless Bro In our Thoughs Always Peace & Love
Michael Clark
March 14, 2012
You now can make beautiful music up in heaven.You will be missed.
Gail
March 14, 2012
The Doobie Brothers hold a special place in my heart and Micheal will be missed by all who knew and loved him. God bless.
Betty Gossard
March 14, 2012
*Circle of Life*
Faith&Happiness
Angels mourn n`sigh
~BillGraham Productions~
Our sentiments
Go out to MICHAEL
of the Doobie Brothers
Thank you for Being a part of a
ICON Legacy of Brillant Written Music
GodBless you and all who loved you'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Victoria&Andrew
March 14, 2012
I met Mike when he was up here in Maine visiting Bill Chinnock. We had just completed the Doobie Brothers first web site. I remember talking about hunting with him and him telling stories about the band. He was a real nice fellow and it was really enjoyable to meet him. RIP Mike.
Paul Booker
March 14, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful musician. Music was your calling and now you are called to do more great works for lord. Your music and service to this country will not be forgotten.
P. Craze
March 14, 2012
You are back with your HOLY FATHER...and ur music will stay with us left behind...
a fan
March 14, 2012
I truly appreciate the music of the Doobie Brothers. Michael was a big part of the stardom they rose to. You may be gone but your legend will live forever. RIP Sue Lewis (High Point, NC)
Sue Lewis
March 14, 2012
RIP Mike, We still enjoy The Doobie Brothers Music!! Prayers for you,your family and your band!
Mr & Mrs M L T.
March 14, 2012
Sorry for your loss.His music will live on forever.
mary clark
March 14, 2012
Thanks for the music, Mike. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Dennis Gray
March 14, 2012
We will NEVER forget the music you played with the Doobie Brothers...you will forever be in our hearts..
Sherri Parr
March 14, 2012
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one. I hope Matthew 11:28-30 offer your family some words of comforts
Harriett care's
March 14, 2012
Saw the Dobbies way back in the day (1970's - Nashville, Tennessee). Loved their music and missed them when they came to Charlotte last year. May Mr. Michael Hossack rest in peace. He helped to make this world a better place. Respectfully submitted by:
Artemus Flagg, Ph. D., LPC - Charlotte, NC
March 14, 2012
Thank you for the great music. I just saw you last summer at a concert, along with Lynyrd Skynyrd, at CMAC in Canandaigua, NY. Brought back a lot of fond memories. RIP and I know that you are in Rock-n-Roll Heaven.
Sharon Elder
March 14, 2012
Rest in peace from an OLOL drumming buddy
JIm Nargiso
March 14, 2012
The Doobies are part of our heart & soul. We were fortunate to see you in concert many, many times in the past and will continue in the future. You will be missed , but your spirit will be there everytime the band plays. Thanks for the great music and love.
Geri & Steve McMurdie, Salt Lake City, Utah
March 14, 2012
Thank you for the great music. Now you are playing for God. RIP.
Barbi
March 14, 2012
Showing 1 - 100 of 173 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more