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SHELDON MEAKER Obituary

SHELDON "KIP" MEAKER - BURLINGTON - Sheldon "Kip" Meaker, 65, of Burlington, died Aug. 8, 2014, after a long illness. A native of Barre, Kip was widely known as an elite singer-guitar player whose unique style bridged the genres of rock, blues and early jazz. Kip Meaker's long history as a musician included performances with Edgar Winter's "White Trash" band and "Asleep at the Wheel," and was a founder of the group "Boston." Kip was a fixture for many years in Burlington's nightclub scene, either as the featured artist in groups or as a solo act that evoked the best of the blues tradition. It's safe to say that Kip Meaker, guitarist extraordinaire and vocal virtuoso, achieved legendary status during his lifetime as one of Vermont's all-time great musicians. Among his many talents, Kip was an accomplished artist in pastels and watercolor. An avid fisherman and former fish taxidermist, Kip is listed as the state record holder for Yellow Perch. He was a collector of rare sea shells and held a special fondness for roses and irises, African bullfrogs and exotic gold fish. Kips' encyclopedic intellect was highlighted by an articulate command of the English language. A not-so-involuntary captive of the moods of a brooding artist, Kip's sharp wit and playfully critical sense of humor were a delight to those who were honored to know him. Kip is survived by his children, Abbey Meaker and her husband, Sean Martin, of Monkton, Michael of New York, N.Y., Jack Meaker and Savannah Meaker-Waller of Wilmington, N.C., and Donald Grady of Monkton; sisters, Diane Meaker Williams and Kristin Haskins of Barre; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. With love and gratitude to Phil Abair of Burlington. Two celebrations of Kip's life are being planned. The first is a private gathering of friends and family at a close friend's home on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2014. The second is a private gathering of family on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2014, at the home of Kips' daughter, Abbey, in Bristol.

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Published by The Burlington Free Press on Aug. 13, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for SHELDON MEAKER

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Bonnie

June 24, 2024

To Kip's daughter,
I know you miss your Dad, honey. I miss my Dad too. ( And your Dad). But you must remember, he had "No Expiration Date". He is with you still and knows everything that is going on with you. When you smell him or are reminded of him in small ways, that is him still involved in your life. He is not that far away from you. Believe the signs he gives you.

.

December 1, 2023

I miss you dad I love you. I have a lot of memories and stories to share with you. I wish I could call you.

Dennis LaRock

December 1, 2022

This is incredibly sad... sometimes searching for someone you haven't seen in 40 years doesn't turn out very well. I met Kip at the Broken Ski in Killington, Vt. circa 71/72... the band, Anvil. He covered Hendrix's, Third Stone from the Sun... and, my life was never the same. We chatted for a few minutes after the show and I saw Anvil a few more times. A few years later I moved to Burlington and would go listen to Kip play here and there or bump into him on the street (he always laughed when he saw me) and we'd chat briefly. Very fond memories of two souls who were barely acquaintances. What a musician!
Godspeed Kip!

Art

August 7, 2021

I miss you, dear brother.

Kathi Squires

April 27, 2020

Altho I've recently learned of Kip's passing. It deeply saddens me. I met Kip when he was playing with Bob Slayton (drummer) out side of Montpelier at 'The Loft'. Bob Slayton's parents opened up their old barn and the band played on one of the barn floors. It was the first time I'd ever heard anyone play blues, let alone Kip with his ability to somehow, let his guitar come alive through him. I was saddened when he went on tour with Edgar... I know it's been a few years since his leaving this earth... but every time I hear anything that comes close to Kip... I'm brought back to my days of dancing, laughing and enjoying Bob, Kip, and the rest of the band.
To his family; Thank you for sharing him with so many of us. Thank you for sharing videos for those of us who love his soulful music. I hope you continue to surround yourselves with love, those who loved Kip, and those who love you...

Chip Wilson

January 11, 2019

I think of Kip pretty much every time I hit a decent lick on the guitar...and that's not the only time.

Patsy Skinner Garvey Meaker

January 10, 2019

Patsy Skinner Garvey Meaker

January 10, 2019

January 7, 2019

I miss you so much Dad.

patsy skinner

November 17, 2017

light of my life sir...

Uncle Sam 1968

Gary Stacey

November 2, 2017

Gavin Wright

November 1, 2017

I never got sick of listening to his music...a great soul, sharp guy, a hell of a guitar player- singer. He had excellent taste in music.

my sister&I loved your music

patsy skinner

February 6, 2016

I love you always...my heart aches for the love and laughter we shared. You can never be replaced...your Patsy

David L.

April 25, 2015

So long, pal.

March 21, 2015

An inspiring person & artistic muse.

Alan Kendall

December 8, 2014

It was with great sadness I just found of Kip's passing today. In the fall of 1967, as a freshman at Northeastern University in Boston I formed a band with Kip, his friend Leroy, and two other freshman called the Magic Village. We had such musical adventures in that band and it lasted until Kip left school and returned to VT. Kip was a brilliant guitar player and wonderful singer. I am sorry to not have had the chance to reconnect with him before his passing.

From our band's photo shoot.

December 8, 2014

It with much sadness I came across the news of Kip's passing just today. In the fall of 1967 at Northeastern University in Boston I was a member of a band with Kip and fellow Vermonter, Leroy Preston, with two other freshman. He as a fantastic musician and we had great musical adventures in our band, The Magic Village. Or paths went different directions when he returned to VT. But those musical experiences with Kip were amazing memories. I am sorry not to have been able to see him again before he passed.

wayne savard

November 1, 2014

Greatest guitarist and vocalist i'v ever seen live..RIP kip.

Jim Sylvester

August 26, 2014

“Half of what I say is meaningless; but I say it so that the other half may reach you.” (Gibran)

Jim

Danny Coane

August 24, 2014

Sheldon "Kip" Meaker - a truly unique, deep, soulful, one-of-a kind person and most definitely a superb "Best" singer and blues/rock/jazz player. What can one really say? It's so sad he's gone, but his recorded work and YouTubes live on..watch them to remember that great, amazing artistry. Kip is most definitely one of the real legends and greatest musicians ever to hail from Vermont. I first met him in 1965 when he had a superb Spaulding (Barre) High School rock band, The VIPS, which included Asleep at the Wheel legend Eugene "Leroy" Preston, plus John Emery and Gary Stacey. They were a couple of years behind me when I was in a "rival" Montpelier High School rock band, The Jesters. I followed Kip's career after that. Very few artists around here had to ability to carry numbers like "Angel Eyes", "Wichita Lineman", "You Don't Know Me" and, especially, "In Dreams" like Kip. Although I lost touch with him for stretches of time, we were always friends and always connected. And, yes, that wit!... I loved the comment Chip Wilson made about "Kip/Chip and Sheldon/Holden", as I remember that also. While we reflect on Kip's recent passing, let's recall Elmore James' original song "The Sky is Crying". Rest and Be At Peace, My Old Friend. We'll Meet Again Someday.

Penny

August 22, 2014

The loss of a beloved deserving friend
is the hardest trial of philosophy.

Good night sweet prince...

August 20, 2014

Kip , I know you're up there jamming with all the greats .
Hope to join your band someday , all the best Marc Chapman

August 20, 2014

Possibly one of the very best musicians I've ever known... He's with the greats now, just where he should be...
Bill Kennedy...

Chip Wilson

August 20, 2014

So many fond memories of the few dozen gigs Kip did with me hanging on for dear life. We always had to laugh about the Kip and Chip thing, but nothing could beat the day when he found out my real name is Holden and I found out his real name is Sheldon. Holden and Sheldon, Kip and Chip. Unforgettable man, and I'm so glad I had a chance to play with him again last Fall. Thanks to Phil Abair.

August 20, 2014

Kip, I had never seen you 'back in the day.' I came to Burlington too late. But I did see your last gigs at Vermont Pub & Brewery, and will never forget you. You were a beautiful musician, as people here have said, a master of voice and strings. I hope to see you on the other side. I KNOW there's a big party going on, and you're at the center of it. I miss seeing you play. R.I.P Kip.

August 18, 2014

Kipper, Words can not express the love I have for you. Even though we did not see each other for some time , I know you thought of me often and i of you! when you trained with me and got your Black belt I remember how happy and proud you were. I thank you for the special dragon and tiger art. It will always be in my Dojo along with the story of you..Your story ..I love you and I will keep your kids Jack and tiny always with fresh memories of you..The Angels are singing and you are now in the best of divine energy,,may God hold you tight..

cushion

August 18, 2014

Sorry to see you go. You will be missed

Maria Conti-Reilly

August 18, 2014

I recall the early promises and loves he held for for music from high school. I never think of dancing in hiigh school without remembering his gifts . . .he will live in the memories of many . . .

Steve Herberg

August 18, 2014

Kip,
Where can we now turn to hear the special quality of music you provided to so many of us for so long? From the Heineberg Club in 1969 to the St. John's Club in 2012, I never missed a show that I knew about! Shortly after we lost Hendrix, there was that gig in an empty farmhouse (in Fairfield?) where it became clear that Jimi lived on through your talents. Years later, during a break at The Sheraton, we agreed that you could outplay that newcomer from Texas – Stevie Ray something-or-other... I guess now you can chase him down and share riffs. Although some of them may be better off forgotten, I'll always remember fondly the times our paths crossed. My prayers are with you, your family and all of those grieving in your absence.

Susan Sanderson

August 18, 2014

Your new journey begins. May your spirit live forever in light and peace. You were so loved. Thank you for your presence in this world. We are all the richer for it. All my love, cuz. I will miss you so much.

August 17, 2014

Hey Kip- My life is going to be poorer without you in it. I miss playing those beautiful old tunes with you. I believe that you've just gone somewhere where I can't see you for a while. Au revoir.

VIP.s 1965

Gary Stacey

August 16, 2014

At a very young age, I was given a great gift, to be a member of Kip's first two bands, The VIP's and Uncle Sam.
I shall always remember our very first performance at the North Haverhill High School on August 7th 1965. Kip unique and profound talent was evident even on that first gig.
Since that time I have traveled far and have seen so much wonderful musical talent. I always measure their skill against the gold standard of Kip Meaker. Never have I seen anyone better. I admire Kip so much for following his passion and doing such a wonderful job at sharing it with so many. Well done my friend.

My sincere condolences to his family and many friends.

Gary Stacey
Marshfield, MA
[email protected]

Rick (Starr) Workman

August 15, 2014

From the days of "Anvil" on 'Kick Meaper' entertained us all with classy, rich music. Even after years of trying I still am unable to emulate most of his licks with the same touch and feeling that he had on the fret board. His artistry with a brush was equally accomplished. GOD's blessings to all Kip's family and close friends as they deal with the emotional pain from his loss.

bill Kinzie

August 15, 2014

Play on my friend-thanks for the music & memories.
Love & peace to your family.

Greg Haggard

August 15, 2014

One of greatest musicians I have ever been around. Totally unique and a great story teller. Rest in Peace my friend.

Villari' Self Defense

August 15, 2014

Your martial arts family will miss you Kip. You paintings are valued and honored in our dojo.

Harry Brown

August 15, 2014

Saw Kip perform at the Flynn Theater with Frank Marino and Mahogany Rush.

RIP Bro!

Peter B. Wilder

August 14, 2014

Sheldon Meaker was, along with Jeff Salisbury, one of the first of Vermont's elite musician community to acknowledge my small part within it. Kip's sense of humor, scintillating wit and dry delivery were only exceeded by his seemingly effortless guitar mechanics and supple, broad ranging vocal abilities. We measure time with passages like Kip's. I feel fortunate to have known him, and to engaged in so many memorable conversations.

August 14, 2014

It seems like yesterday that I last saw you and felt your presence upon my spirit. God rest and keep you KIP

Dwayne Larabee

August 14, 2014

Kip i only met you once my brother Rick took guitar lessons from you. You will always be remembered. Dwayne and Rick Larabee.

Dwayne Larabee

August 14, 2014

Kip i only met you once my brother Rick took guitar lessons from you. You will always be remembered. Dwayne and Rick Larabee.

August 13, 2014

Kip was a frequent customer in my aquarium shop, often producing works of art on a shared passion of exotic goldfish in trade for rare tropical frogs. I will miss you but let the world know your memory lives on in your art as well as mine and Sues heart.
Gerry Hine

Kim Abramovich

August 13, 2014

No one could sing Blue Spanish Eyes like Kip...gives me chills thinking about it still. My heart and thoughts go out to his family and friends. RIP, amazing man.

Terry Doe

August 13, 2014

I worked with Kip at the Essex PO from 1989 til he left,we had a lot of laughs. I'll never forget when he told the supervisor he was sick and going home,the sup. said can you stay and set up your route? Kip came back with "it's sick leave, not sick stay! Very talented Man, My heart and prayers go out to his Family. RIP!!

Glad

August 13, 2014

RIP Kip...Our lives are just a little dimmer because you are gone.

Glad

August 13, 2014

Going to hear Kip Meaker play and sing was always a date-night highlight for Dave and I. Kip, we will always remember you, and forever listen to you. Thank you for recording so that your voice and your spirit will always live. RIP,song man.

Lisa Sullivan

August 13, 2014

Kip you've touched so many lives with your wit and unmatched talent. I hope the whole world will some day be able to hear how talented you were. My thoughts and prayers to all who have lost this lovely man.

Kenneth Burghardt

August 13, 2014

You were the best at everything,the last time I saw you I told you I loved you.I'm playing your music right now which will live forever...

Art Vuley

August 13, 2014

I have photos of Kip and his art work on the walls of my home. I look at them now, through wet eyes, with an even deeper reverence.

Art Dusablon

August 13, 2014

Had alot of fun making people laugh at the Post Office with you my friend. Those memories will last for ever with me. Rest in Peace

Stephen Campbell

August 13, 2014

RIP Kip

August 13, 2014

Kip……. what a gift !…… thank you for enriching my times ….. tad cheeseman

Joe Boudreau

August 13, 2014

RIP Kip, you were one of a kind.

Sergio

August 13, 2014

My good Friend..with you gone the world has lost some of its colors.You added a unique artistic wibe to place and people.
It has been a gift having known you. See you around!

August 13, 2014

Kip's music gave me a lot of joy. My condolences to his family, friends and his good friend Penny.

~Susan P.

donald benoit

August 13, 2014

Had a lot of laughs working at the post office rip

August 13, 2014

"A song of you
Comes as sweet and clear
As moonlight through the pines"...
Rest in Peace Kip...your dues are surley paid
Beard

Larry Remick

August 13, 2014

Loved that dude.

patsy garvey

August 13, 2014

Love to the children.

Patricia Skinner

August 13, 2014

I ll love you forever, Blondiexo heartfelt prayers for those who grieve.

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