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Bob Dorough
1923 - 2018
Bob Dorough
1923 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1923
DIED
2018
Bob Dorough Obituary
His son, Chris, says 94-year-old Bob Dorough died of natural causes Monday at his home in Mount Bethel, Pennsylvania.
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According to his biography, the jazz musician "set the multiplication tables to music" as musical director for the educational cartoon series between 1973 and 1985. It was revived from 1993 to 1999.
He also wrote the song "Devil May Care," which jazz great Miles Davis recorded as an instrumental version.
Dorough was born in Arkansas and raised in Texas. He headed to New York City after graduating from the University of North Texas in 1949. He eventually settled in Pennsylvania.
A funeral is tentatively scheduled for Monday in Mount Bethel.
We invite you to share condolences for Bob Dorough in our Guest Book.
Copyright © 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
106 Entries
Cartoon Man
December 31, 2021
'Multiplication Rock', 'Grammar Rock', 'America Rock', 'Science Rock', 'Money Rock' and 'Earth Rock'
Tammy Vogel
January 1, 2020
Aralee,
I just came across this about your dad. I am so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful man that I remember from my childhood when I use to come play with you. I use to live across the street from you when I was a small child.
Over the years I thought of you often and wondered what you were doing with your life. I watched the Schoolhouse Rock all the time too.
Bob Johnson
October 6, 2018
A huge influence on me-- in jazz and in life -- I play sax, and was always inspired by Bob's great soul and musicianship and smart lyrics-- a voice for our century
Elizabeth Flores
August 10, 2018
Dear Aralee,
I just read your piece Remembering Bob Dorough in The Note and was quite moved. I lost my drummer father, Chuck Flores, in 2016, and I couldn't help relating to He was just here! I heard my pop in a tune played on K-Jazz, and it brought me to tears; how many people can still hear their fathers musically? We are blessed. I can relate to being the daughter of someone cooler than myself, and the endearing comments of the past peppered with cat. I play jazz (Chet Baker) to my fourth graders and think of Pop AKA The Ogre to his students at Musicians Institute.
Many blessings to you and your family, and may your father's spirit prevail!
Elizabeth Flores
How you can show support
Gayla Westhoff
July 9, 2018
Thank you for the catchy and educational songs...fun part of my childhood.
May 29, 2018
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one, who will be remembered for his songs that impacted us young ones back in the day. It made learning fun! May you find comfort and help in God during this time of sorrow.
Mark B
May 9, 2018
I well remember as a young child learning my multiplication tables on Saturday mornings to many of his songs. In the past few years I have shared them all with my children and will always be thankful for and never forget what he has given me.
Joe P
May 7, 2018
I was fortunate enough to have seen Bob back in 1980 thru a friend who knew his bass player,Bill Takas.
I was a fan immediately.
5 years ago he performed at a place near me called the 76 House.
I went to see him and he was as vital and entertaining and as great as he had always been!
And he was just so sweet and accessible and we talked for a while.
I'll treasure that memory forever!
My deepest heartfelt condolences.
He was a truly special man.
May 6, 2018
Mr. Dorough was part of many of our childhoods with Schoolhouse Rock. We're sorry to hear of his death. We hope that his family and friends will cherish pleasant memories. Our Heavenly Father is close to those brokenhearted.
Anita Watkins
May 3, 2018
My condolences to the family. I had the pleasure of meeting Bob at a little jazz club called Gregory's on the Upper East Side. That beautiful smile and wit. will be missed.
Jon Kydd
May 3, 2018
I remember hearing an interview about 20 years ago on NPR featuring Mr. Dorough. What an interesting life he lived and you can hear that life in his music. Condolences to the family and friends.
Craig Feldman
May 3, 2018
So sorry fo your loss. He was amazing. I was lucky enough to be able to film him performing on his 91st birthday as well as a fundraiser for the farmers. An inspiration to all.
Scott Chamberland
May 2, 2018
Rest in Peace
May 1, 2018
My Condolences to the family and friends of Bob Dorough, I don't know anyone who have not grown up singing the ABC's or Schoolhouse Rock.may God bless your family at this time of sadness.
May 1, 2018
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Jackie
May 1, 2018
There was so much love expressed in his talent
Songs that helped many to learn in a fun way
May family and friends share those memories with each other as they comfort each other during this time
May they draw strength from above
Andrea
April 30, 2018
To Mr. Dorough 's Family I am so very sorry for your loss May the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts during this difficult time.
April 30, 2018
My heartfelt sympathy to the family on the passing of your love one please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
Yc
Dianne Moritz
April 29, 2018
My condolences to the family of Bob Dorough on his recent passing. I knew Mr. Dorough through my jazz loving mother, Norma Moritz, and had the pleasure of meeting him at a performance in Hollywood, CA in the early 80's. He was a quirky, clever lyricist with a unique, wonderful voice. My whole family loved him and I have a photograph to prove it. He will be greatly missed. RIP, Bob.
Melissa Pioneer
April 29, 2018
With deepest sympathy on loss of your love one. May it bring comfort you to know that he will return to the days of his youthful vigor as promised at Job 33:25.
Anne
April 29, 2018
I grew up on Schoolhouse Rock and I loved it! Conjunction Junction still my favorite. You managed to sneak a little learning in there among the Saturday morning cartoons as we were eating our cereal. Those songs are still in my head and I love it. What a great way to learn, I wish they were still on. Thank you sir for making such a difference!
faith tobin
April 28, 2018
Dear Dorough Family Rory and I would luv to extend our condolences's on the loss of Bob Dorough.he'll surely be missed.luv,faith/rory
April 28, 2018
An incredible duo of Blossom Dearie and Bob Dorough was the maker of many jazz lovers. Thanks Bob for your cleverness and down-home rhythm cadences that made your music ever more indelible. Bill Doughty
SUEANN
April 28, 2018
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Kim E
April 28, 2018
We the people.....thank you so much for helping us through history, math and English classes. Thank you for filling our minds and hearts with something of such value while we lazily laid unsuspecting on the rug watching Saturday morning cartoons. This world is better for the learning and musical joy you have given.
April 28, 2018
My deepest condolences to the family at this very difficult time. May the God of all comfort be with you
April 28, 2018
Bob, you are the reason I take myself seriously as a writer and a singer....I feel my worth because of you. Your joy for life, your smile, your twinkly eyes, your entire musical being and kind soul affected me and all those lucky enough to have been in your presence. You will, forever, be in my heart, and I sing and soar for you.
BONNIE LEE SANDERS
F Montag
April 27, 2018
He was a genius. I still remember every Schoolhouse Rock song. They need to continue his tradition. Song has always worked for memory retention. He will be missed!
Beth Mitchell
April 27, 2018
My sincere sympathy to the Dorough family. Schoolhouse Rock was a big influence on me when growing up in NJ. Thanks to Bob for sharing his talents with us. Peace.
Alicia Harris
April 27, 2018
Aralee, Your Daddy was larger than life in giving to everone of his friendship, talent, music and personal time. What a wonderful man, what a wonderful life. One most precious gift he gave to us, is you. Take care, God bless you and yours, see you soon, Love, Alicia
April 27, 2018
My mother was a Dorough and loved talking about her cousin and how talented he was. The music world will miss your great talent. Condolences to the family.
Beth Sikes
April 27, 2018
May the GOD. Of all. Comfort be whit the falmay.
Ed Cuneo
April 27, 2018
Thank you for making my childhood memorable by making school seem less intimidating
April 27, 2018
Dorough Family, Friends,
Fans,
Please accept our condolences and prayers on the passing of your dear loved one. We will always cherish those Schoolhouse programs. He heals the brokenhearted; He binds up their wounds.-PS.147:3
JE
April 26, 2018
So many educators really appreciated schoolhouse rock. Children enjoyed learning math from it while dancing to the beat. Mr. Dorough will always be remembered. Please accept my sincere condolences. He is resting in Gods memory.
April 26, 2018
My condolences to the Dorough Family. May the God of comfort grant you strength during this difficult time.
Phil Farace
April 26, 2018
Aralee, sorry to hear of your dad's passing.
Sincerely, Phil Farace (your 5th grade teacher)
Holley A Linscott
April 26, 2018
I had the good fortune to meet Bob a few times. He played in Munich with some great friends of mine. He was a fantastic, FUN musician. He was one of those unique individuals that just made life a lot more interesting and bright. I'm so glad for his long, talent-sharing life and wish him a peaceful journey to his next gig... We love you, Bob and will still keep playing your recordings to be with you. <3
Patricia
April 26, 2018
So sorry to hear about the passing of such a talented man. We would like to offer my deepest interested condolences to your families and friends. Jeremiah 29;11 assumes us God is thinking thoughts of peace toward us,to give us a hope. In the days to come may you find comfort in that hope.
Maggie
April 26, 2018
May our God of Comfort sustain you in this difficult time. My sincerest sympathies
G. Freeman
April 26, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jim Brewer
April 26, 2018
My children grew up on 'Schoolhouse Rock' and I really loved it too. Thanks to Bob for his wonderful contributions! My condolences to the family. May your burden be lightened by all who listened, appreciated the education, and the music. May God Bless us all!
Kenneth Green
April 26, 2018
Schoolhouse Rock, my first classroom! Thanks for a great start to education.
April 26, 2018
Thanks for making me smarter and hip at the same time.
Holly Hilton
April 26, 2018
Thank you for a such memorable music. I've always loved "Three is the magic number" and Schoolhouse Rock. Your music will live on forever! Condolences to all of Bob's close friends and family.
A. H.
April 26, 2018
Sorry for your loss.
April 26, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mary
April 26, 2018
Schoolhouse Rock is a fond memory. Deepest condolences to the family and close friends.
Cheryl Landin
April 26, 2018
RIP!!! Thanks for "Schoolhouse Rock", I loved that show as a child and watched it with my child.
I am sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
Chris Cazzato
April 26, 2018
God bless thanks for teaching me so much I have the schoolhouse collection on DVD still love it.rest in peace.sorry for your loss
Matthew Stymacks
April 25, 2018
Thank you Bob for a lifetime of memorable music. I've always loved Schoolhouse Rock since I was a kid. You're legacy will live on forever! I give my condolences to all of Bob's close friends and family.
CF
April 25, 2018
May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Dorough family and friends at this difficult time.
Ohhh Bob!!! You will be missed. I haven't seen you since I was a young girl but you left quite the impression on my my life.
Lisa Noe in Oklahoma
April 25, 2018
April 25, 2018
R.I.P. LOVED ALL YOUR SONGS
April 25, 2018
HEARTFELT PRAYERS ON YOUR LOSS.
April 25, 2018
Sincerest sympathy.
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace constantly in every way. May the Lord be with all of you."
~ 2 Thessalonians 3:16
April 25, 2018
Dear Dorough family, thanks to your family for sharing your loved one with all children. My kids loved programs that helped them to remember fundamental skills. I'm sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort console you all during this grievous time. A parent
Andrea
April 25, 2018
Dear Dorough Family ,
I am truly sorry for your loss, Although I did not know Mr. Dorough personally however his voice was a familiar voice to me growing up in the 70's School house rock is how me and my sibling's learned what an adjective was and I'm sure many others . May the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts during this difficult time. Philippians 4:6,7.
Marcy
April 25, 2018
His life was well lived and he was well loved. He left his mark on society and will be remembered for it. His merry songs brought laughter to many little ones and their families. May his loved ones find peace in those precious memories left behind and find comfort in knowing that you have God's promises of hope of seeing him again.
April 25, 2018
Thanks for getting me through multiplication of the number 8! May God be waiting to welcome you home. Peace and comfort to the family of this talented soul.
VH
April 25, 2018
I listened to Mr Dorough work and he did a great job with School House Rock.Try multiplying counting backwards. To the family I'm sorry for your loss. How thankful that you have his work and many fund things to remember him by.
Carl Franks and Connie Sullivan
April 25, 2018
Another part of our childhood passing on to the next world. Thank you Bob for all of your hard work and dedication to educating children through your music on "Schoolhouse Rock."
April 25, 2018
Loved meeting Bob at a music festival in PA. He was gracious and listened intently as I shared how important his work with Schoolhouse Rock was to me. I was very impressed at how he selflessly gave time and attention to his many fans that day. "Somewhere in the ancient mystic trinity" Bob has taken his place among the stars. Blessings to his family and all that love and will miss him.
Lillie
April 25, 2018
Sorry for your loss may you all be comforted knowing that your loved one is safe inGod memories
Nancy Duffer
April 25, 2018
Sincere condolences at this difficult time. As a teacher, mother, and grandmother, I have shared all his songs with kids since 1975, because they were so catchy and helpful. He has provided both me and my family with wonderful memories and easy to recall facts! A great talent!
Matthew Surapine
April 25, 2018
The world is truly a bit grayer and less cheerful with the passing of Bob, an eternal elf whose talent and joy infected all who had the honor of meeting him, working with him. Rest well jazz man, job well done
Hope
April 25, 2018
Thanks so much for the wonderful childhood memories. You made learning fun!! Hope you are enjoying the music in heaven! RIP.
April 25, 2018
My condolences go out to the family members and friends of Bob.
May God 's love be with all of and give peace and strength .
RB.
Kostas Christou
April 25, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Linda
April 25, 2018
Condolences to Mr. Dorough's family. A wonderful memory from childhood was watching School House Rock and those catchy songs. May you find strength during this difficult time in the memories you have of him. Thank you for sharing him with the world.
April 25, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Larry Cantrell
April 25, 2018
Remembering a man for his groundbreaking work in educating children through Schoolhouse, Grammar, and America Rock. It will forever live on. Thank you Mr. Bob Dorough for the great memories I have of this awesome endeavor of yours.
art rubalcava
April 25, 2018
I produced this story on BD in the late 90's.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLjNcIryvG4&feature=share
RIP, Bob. Love, 'Artie from Philly'
Radio Rick
April 25, 2018
Bob was an instant friend to all he met. I had that pleasure in the mid 70's when he made a guest appearance on the jazz show hosted by Jerry Segal, Jr., on WYZZ-FM in Wilkes-Barre. His music kept him young and his contributions to that art were far ranging helping introduce technical innovations in the recording studio with groups such as "Spanky and Our Gang". Bob certainly has left all of us many good memories for which we are most thankful.
Brenna C
April 25, 2018
Your work on Schoolhouse Rock has touched many, including myself. Even in my 30's I find myself turning to old favorites to share with the next generation. Thank you for everything, Mr. Dorough, and Rest In Peace.
Elijah Navarro
April 25, 2018
God Speed.
Thank you for sharing your talent with the world, I will never forget our time spent together at the public library.I will cherish the many pictures we took together near the piano that day.
Elijah Navarro age 12
April 25, 2018
Very talented...awesome how he taught through music which many can relate to. May the wonderful memories the family, friends, and fans share bring comfort during this time of loss. Proverbs 17:17
Chianti
Dawn Murray
April 25, 2018
My deepest sympathy to the family.
I grew up watching Mr.Dorough cartoon shows that aired on t.v. such as multiplication song and many more,who would know that I would then meet the man behind the talent.My grandson and I were thrilled to meet Dorough for the first time at the public libary where he played the piano and sang some of his greats to the children. Mr.Dorough sparked a light in my grandson that day,We also loved watching him perform outside by the Delaware water gap.
It was an honor to meet you Bob Dorough you most certainty did a good job.God speed.
Maria
April 25, 2018
My condolences to Mr Dorough's family. I grew up listening to the SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK every Saturday morning! He left my generation lots of great memories...... RIP, Mr Dorough
April 25, 2018
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Dottie Paulson Chartreau
April 25, 2018
What a wonderful Guy! His songs were A huge part of my childhood! I can still recall all the words to all of those great teaching songs. Prayers to his family and loved ones. The Angels are singing with his arrival no doubt.
The Deer Head Inn, DWG
Deborah Dourand-Casterlin
April 24, 2018
Mr. Bob Dourough, the man, the legend. My dad introduced me to your unique style at The Deer Head Inn over 25 years ago. I was immediately hooked! I never missed COTA since 1990 always in the hope you would be taking the stage. It just won't be the same without you although I'm sure your spirit will live on forever in the DWG, especially the weekend of the festival. RIP you sweet man. Deborah Dourand-Casterlin (Harvey's Lake, PA)
Davy Meister
April 24, 2018
Bob Dorough came to our little middle school in Lancaster County Pennsylvania to see our production of Schoolhouse Rock Live, Jr and Martin Meylin Middle School was never the same! This gregarious, vivacious, charismatic musician signed every autograph, spoke with every young actor, and even led a Conga line of his beloved Conjunction, Junction! But he really stole the show, after the show, when we took him out to dinner and he got up and jammed with all the young performers at the tavern! He was kind and gracious with his time and talents. Our middle school students were treated to a legend and a wonderful human being! Thanks for the memories, Bob!
John Eldridge
April 24, 2018
Farewell Bob. There will never be another you. Your albums are priceless works of art. The world is a lesser place with your brilliant talent gone forever. My condolences to the family.
Jack Eldridge "Adventures In Jazz." WCUE radio, Akron, Ohio
April 24, 2018
One of the coolest memories of Saturday morning tv was schoolhouse rock . Lol got me through English class in school .Rest peaceful Sir an Thank you.
Erin Fraatz
April 24, 2018
RIP Mr. Dorough. It was a pleasure to have known you and I will always remember singing our duet at East Stroudsburg University with the fondest memories. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. You will be missed.
Stanley P
April 24, 2018
Conjunction Junction, what's your function? "Making up songs and helping us learn right!" This is exactly what you did for Generations past and present. I offer my sincere condolences. You will be sorely missed. Your creativity is something that has benefited so many. May all who belong to you find comfort in these passages for all the works that you have done will always be held in high regard. (Daniel 12:13, Matthew 22:31,32)
R B
April 24, 2018
Your legacy will live on. Thank you for sharing your gift of music with us. My condolences to the Dorough family.
2 Thessalonians 2:16,17
Alita Mantels
April 24, 2018
In 1998 the truly unique and remarkably talented Bob Dorough was inducted into the Arkansas Jazz Hall of Fame and awarded a lifetime membership in the Arkansas Jazz Heritage Foundation. On behalf of the Foundation, I offer sincere condolences to his family and friends. Since 23 April 2018 new articles and obituaries have been posted to the Foundation's Facebook page, which already included (under "Photos") two annotated albums for him. Videos filmed during his final Arkansas concert (19 May 2017 at Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock) can be found on the YouTube channel (Rapido Eduardo's Rhythm Room) of AJHF member Eddy Bowman. - Alita Mantels, Secretary for Arkansas Jazz Heritage Foundation/Arkansas Jazz Hall of Fame
Bob Gooding
April 24, 2018
Thank you Bob Dorough, for sharing your. Immense talent and humor, with the world.
Jane Frye
April 24, 2018
Thank you, Bob, for the music and the memories. My family will always love you.
Michele Cowan
April 24, 2018
I learned so much from Schoolhouse Rock. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.
April 24, 2018
We really loved schoolhouse rock growing up!
So glad Bob took time to perform in this capacity for us kids. Thanks!
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