Ross TAGGART Obituary

TAGGART, Ross Thomas Died surrounded by family and close friends on 9th January 2013 after a brave and gallant struggle with kidney cancer. He was 45. Born in Victoria, BC, Ross showed great interest in music from an early age. At 18, he moved to Vancouver and embarked on a free lance jazz career, eventually becoming a prominent and beloved figure on the North American jazz scene. Ross lived generously and compassionately; he loved with an open heart, always, and appreciated the truly valuable things in life - art, music, drama, good food, the beauty of nature, friends and family. His unique sense of humour meant he carried the gift of laughter wherever he went. Those of us fortunate enough to have known him will miss him more deeply than words can express. His loss will also deeply affect the Vancouver/Vancouver Island jazz community whose steadfast devotion was a comfort to both Ross and his family during these dreadful last three months. In addition, family and friends alike are very grateful to the truly extraordinary Palliative Care Team at Vancouver General Hospital. A service celebrating Ross's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday 19th January at Cordova Bay United Church, 813 Claremont Ave. Joy he gave; joy he has found.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Victoria Times-Colonist from Jan. 16 to Jan. 18, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Ross TAGGART

9 Entries

Nick

April 2, 2025

I hope it's not out of place to leave a note here in 2025... I remember hearing Ross Taggart at the Vancouver Jazz Fest many years ago. His music encapsulated the thrill of being young and on my own for the first time in a big city, and the beauty of BC's jazz scene, which had (still has?) such a clean sound to it, free of the discord that characterizes lots of bebop. I'm thinking of Hugh Fraser, Jodi Proznick, Campbell Ryga.. Anyway, I've just discovered Ross Taggart's music again on Bandcamp. Thank you for the memories and the pleasure of discovery. I remember your energy on stage, a small concert by the water. Inspiring, loving, a breath of that air.

Will Goede

March 11, 2013

Ross was a gentle and graceful jazz musician, who could perform music on the level with the most accomplished musicians in the history of jazz. He was my teacher for one week, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. If there is a sainthood among jazz giants, then he will be found there.

Nicole Borthwick

January 19, 2013

It is with a heavy heart that I learned the news of Ross' passing. A true gentle soul, with a kind heart for all he met.
Gifted as a musician, Ross was seeking the best at his craft: to make beautiful music.
Ross you will be missed, and the memories will be forever in our hearts.

Godspeed.

January 19, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Katie Malloch

January 18, 2013

Every time I ran into Ross over the years, it was such a pleasure to see him. His musical talent was matched by his kindness and warmth. My condolences to all of Ross's family and friends.

Pamela and Maurice Myhre

January 18, 2013

Our sincere condolences to Helen and family on your loss.

January 17, 2013

I'm proud to say that Ross was my friend, and an inspiration to me throughout my life. My condolences to Ross' family and many friends. Goodbye Ross.
Tony Moro

Susila Bryant

January 16, 2013

Sincere condolences to the family of Ross, and to all friends and musicians who knew the great gift of playing with, learning from, and listening to Ross and his music. "There will never be another you". Vaya Con Dios, Dear Ross.

Susilawati Bryant

January 16, 2013

"Joy he gave, and Joy he has found". Thank you for such a fine tribute to Dear Ross. Sincere Condolences to all family members, and Peace be with you. Ross is remembered in a living way, and will continue to be in all the days to come.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Memorial Events
for Ross TAGGART

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Ross TAGGART

Ross TAGGART Obituary

Memories and Condolences for Ross TAGGART

Memorial Events for Ross TAGGART

Memories and Condolences
for Ross TAGGART

Memorial Events
for Ross TAGGART