Steven Fromholz
1945 - 2014
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ELDORADO, Texas (AP) — Texas singer and songwriter Steven Fromholz has died in a hunting accident when a rifle fell and discharged.

The Schleicher (SHLY'-ker) County Sheriff's Office on Monday said the accident happened at the Flying B Ranch near Eldorado (el-duh-RAY'-duh), about 40 miles south of San Angelo. Fromholz was 68.

Chief Deputy George Arispe (uh-RIS'-pee) says Fromholz was shot Sunday afternoon and died at a hospital in Eldorado.

Arispe says Fromholz, who lives in the area, and his girlfriend were going to hunt feral hogs. A rifle was in a case but unzipped at the bottom. The gun was being transferred from one vehicle to another.

Arispe says Fromholz grabbed the handle, the gun partly fell, hit the ground and discharged.

Fromholz was named a Texas Poet Laureate in 2007.




Copyright © 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Published in Legacy on Jan. 20, 2014.
Memories & Condolences
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181 entries
September 25, 2019
You are heavy on my mind today. In January, it will be 6 years. I cannot believe it; I still miss you so much. Just knowing you were on this planet was such a comfort to me even when we weren't in constant contact. I frequently wonder what witty quip you would have about the craziness going on these days! LOL. Lee is up there with you now; hope y'all are havin' fun hangin' out and shootin' the bull! Love you, friend Fromholz; always have, always will.
Renee Standley
Friend
September 24, 2019
So sorry you are gone. Will always miss you. Loved caddying for you and Siegel. The good ole days in Austin, Texas!! Gone forever.
Ronni Sue Winters
Friend
May 15, 2018
Texas is so incredibly vast and yet ultimately, not quite big enough to hold Fromholz.
Adios, Amigo. Vaya con Dios!
Michael English
Coworker
October 22, 2016
Valenda Newell
December 20, 2015
So saddened by your passing; but so proud to have counted you among my friends, and prouder of all you did for Texas music, writing, and culture. I miss the times we Texan exiles all had in San Francisco: the Lion's Share, the No Name, the Drinking Gourd; I miss our times at the Rubaiyat and Clown Alley in Dallas, and HOP in Fort Worth. You painted with grace and humor in bold strokes on the canvas of our era. God Bless and keep you! Good night, Cowboy!
Richard Wood
July 14, 2015
Around 1974 or 1975 I was living in San Antonio on Fredricksburg Rd. Way One Apartments it was. I became friends with my Neighbor who played guitar and sang. We would sit around in the evenings and sing and play. One day he said to me look at this song and tell me what you think. It was written on notebook paper. It was his song the man in the big hat is buying. I will never forget him playing and singing that song. My Regards to you, and all who loved him he was a fine man. Mick Mikulenka 512 618 3265
mick mikulenka
June 2, 2015
I'm stunned, having only just learned of Steve's tragic and untimely passing. I was fortunate to have heard Steve and Dan McCrimmon perform (as Frummox) at the old Chequered Flag in Austin while I was attending the University of Texas, and their songs struck a nerve. My parents grew up in a small town much like Kopperl, and "Texas Trilogy" is still my favorite song about Texas and Steve my favorite Texas singer-songwriter. We will all miss his resonant baritone voice and his quirky sense of humor, and I extend belated condolences to his family.
Michael McMurtrey
January 19, 2015
Today it is one year since you left this earth and I know our good Lord has been laughing until HIIs sides hurt as I'm sure your wit and humor has kept Him entertained just as it did me for over 40 years and all your other many friends. You, my lovable rogue, are dearly missed and every day that goes by without your presence seems like an eternity! Know that as much as you were loved, you are missed that much more! At least we left here have your music, poems, prose, film, etc to give us some small comfort. I will love and miss you always until I see you again on the other side.
Renee Standley
March 29, 2014
John and I rode with Steve and his sister Angela along with a few others on his last Pack Trip into Mexico, about two weeks before he suffer his first stroke. I'd loved Steve's music and lyrics since the 70's. I watched him on Austin City Limits when he crashed Willies performance and even recorded it.

Our ride with Steve was everything I'd hoped it to be, even better--I became friends with his sister Angela and my heart goes out to her-- I know how close they were.

I'll miss you Steve, but your music will always be playing in my mind if not in the car. Dear Darcie was won of my favorites--he shared his feelings and love to his daughter in words he put to music.

Love to Angela, Darcie, and all who loved Steve, who are living this loss up close. May time help lessen you pain.

Susan and John Drew
Wilson Wyoming
Susan Drew
March 15, 2014
I met Steve in Denver, at the Sign of the Tarot coffee house. He was with "Dangerous" Dan McCrimmon and they played for tips. Soon, the line to get into the tiny coffee house was around the block. He reconnected country with folk and his music was incredible. I hope to join you smiling at God from the top of the hill someday, Steve. God bless you and thanks for the fantastic music.
Thomas Vaught
February 27, 2014
I'll never forget driving from Red River to Denver with Rick and Ray Wylie and Wayne to the Steven Stills, Steve Fromholtz show at that overgrown "barn", and your then new tune,"Times were short from....", which chronicled one of Still's proclivities. The greatest compliment to your prodigious talent was that other musicians loved your work. Thanks for making us laugh a lot and cry some too. We'll miss you. George, "the Wolfman" Adams.
George Adams
February 17, 2014
Sorry to hear about your loss. James 4:8 says draw close to God and he will draw close to you.
February 15, 2014
At a book signing in Luckenbach
I enjoyed Steve's friendship over the years. I first saw him sing at Starlight theater in Terlingua 1990's. I hope someone got the word to Angie. He will be missed. My condolences go out to his family. R.I.P Gil & June Mason
GIL MASON
February 3, 2014
Since I have heard the news I cannot stop listening to Steven's music, every weekend back in the day I would drive all over Texas to catch a show with Steven and Larry Nye playing by his side. Well thanks to Steven I have already been to heaven because at his shows life just doesn't get any better. Thanks for all the wonderful memories and know that Texas is praying for your family and feeling their lost. Take care Mr Puppy Dog Eyes you stole our hearts Steven and we will all be better just for knowing you and having shared a moment in time with you.
Sallie Cave
February 2, 2014
Stephen gave me a lot a great support when I first moved to Austin in 1976 including putting me on on of his shows at the Armadillo. I'm eternally grateful and I share your grief--
Love, Jon Emery
February 1, 2014
What a warm magnetic prescence Steve shared. I was a drink slinger at Castle Creek back in the old days, saw Everbody. So treasure the memories of his magnificent songs and his way of wrapping the audience in his spell. A great great spinner of tales, a lovely man. God rest his soul and live to family and friends
Julie Zimmermann
January 30, 2014
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your loved one. During times of grief, allow God to comfort you and your family for he truly understands what you are going through. (Psalms 72:12-14)
irene
January 30, 2014
I fell for Steven Fromholz after listening to the Frummox album in about 1973. I spent many years "stalking Steven in the nicest possible way" as I told him the last time I was fortunate enough to visit with him a few years back. By stalking I meant driving insane distances to hear him perform any time I was able. Such a brilliant talent and genuine treasure. Indeed "till we meet again". I know he's writing songs about the human condition and bringing even more joy to heaven. Smile down on us Steve. With love, Susan
Susan Barton
January 30, 2014
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.
January 30, 2014
How I wish I had digital photos of the shows Steven and I performed together, with him in tux and even doing dance routines. He was so elegant, and could sing a harmony to a song he'd never heard in his life. I shall miss his larger-than-life presence. My deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved him.
Mady Kaye
January 29, 2014
My thoughts are with your family in your loss, which many of us feel as well. When I was about 15 in 1973 I heard Texas Trilogy and it literally changed my life. That song opened the world of literate singer songwriters to me, from Texas and beyond. It was a gift from Steve I still treasure over 40 years later. We saw him many times at Poor Davids over the years. He could make you laugh, cry, and everything in between in a 45 minute set. I am sure he is doing that in Heaven even now.
Kyle Babick
January 29, 2014
I saw Steve back in the mid-70's at the Rubaiyat Club in Dallas and have never forgotten it. He was truly a unique artist and I will always remember him.
Cynthia (Allgood)
January 29, 2014
may the scriptures at matt.5:3-10 bring you encouragement..sorry for your loss.........dee
January 27, 2014
Sorry for your families loss. May Ecclesiates 7:1 bring you and your family comfort.
January 26, 2014
Thank Steve for the countless memories you gave me in the 70s. I was honored to hear (and love) your music, many, many times all over Austin.
Laura
January 26, 2014
I will miss listening to Steve (and Dan) and the Checkered flag I owned with Allen and Art. He was truly a poet of Texas. BIG hat.
Don Guillett
January 26, 2014
Your imagery was second to none, your songs were well written stories .
Thank you Steve.
John Bevis
January 25, 2014
Stebed was a great friend whom I played baseball with in Denton, Texas. It is a great loss.
January 25, 2014
So sad to lose such a great talent and great guy.
First saw him opening for Steve Stills in 1972 in Berkeley, Ca.
Hung out with him in Austin a bit, what a lovely time and lasting memory.
Thank you Steven for sharing your poems, stories and songs via that incredible voice.
Carry on from above, RIP
Perry Lightfoot
January 25, 2014
Steve's music was a part of Alan's and my courtship 23 years ago, and has been a part of our lives ever since. We saw him many times and never tired of his music & wit. R.I.P. Steven. Hope the river runs where you are.
Sue
January 24, 2014
So sad to hear about Steven's death. His voice was one of a kind and he will be missed. Thank you Steven for sharing your talent with us. Rest in peace.
Susan Esparza
January 24, 2014
To Steves' Family and Friends, I'll bet Steve is singing and dancing at the big hunt in the sky. He is free! xoxo
Cindy Whitaker
January 24, 2014
May God comfort the family at this time of sadness in your life.
January 24, 2014
Steve, thank you for sharing your passion & life with us. We all loved you and admired your genuine love of life. I feel blessed to have been able to call you my friend. Thank you for touching my life through your words & music. My favorite song was and remains. "No Regrets". I want them to play it when my time comes. Damn, we're sure gonna miss you and that big Fromholz smile. But then, you have people to meet and old friends to catch up on. Godspeed friend.
Tweed Scott
January 24, 2014
I was so very sorry to hear of Steven Fromholz walking on. We met briefly one time years ago and he was so very nice. I was in Austin for 20 years and just left there last Nov. Loved his music. Sending prayers that the Great Spirit will watch over the family and help them find peace.
Diane Anderson
January 24, 2014
Coffee at the Manchaca Firehall
The world has lost a beautiful person with towering talent. I'm unable to measure the loss, but will forever treasure our times together.
Jim Gramon
January 23, 2014
Sorry for your loss.may God be with you. And be comforted by John11:24-25 we an see them again.
January 23, 2014
Your songs affected our family. Thank you for gracing us with your incredible gift.
Melissa Miller
January 23, 2014
May the God of peace and all comfort, be with Steven Fromholz's family, fans, and friends during this difficult time.
Tom Smith
January 23, 2014
We are so sorry to lose such a wonderful man and friend. Steven sang at our wedding. RIP dear one.
Gene & Pam
January 23, 2014
Alice Guckian Queen
January 23, 2014
My dear sweet Susan, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers daily. I am here for you ~and will continue calling and driving down to the Flying B. I send my love. Martha B.
Martha B. Henderson
January 23, 2014
So sorry to learn of this tragic and unexpected event. May memories of your loved one provide you with solace.
January 22, 2014
Graduated Temple High School and saw Steve perform many times in the '70s. Rediscovered his music about 10 years ago and bought LPs. But his interaction with a live audience is the best memory.
Dana Evans
January 22, 2014
We'll all miss you. You were a fine neighbor and friend. There will not be another like you my friend.
Glenn Dunn
January 22, 2014
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 65:2.
January 22, 2014
What a loss. Having also grown up in Bosque County, I feel Texas Trilogy was to Texas Music as The Last Picture Show was to Texas film. Both captured the essence of coming of age in rural Texas. Steve and I would share our memories of Meridian, Clifton, Morgan and Kopperl during the times I would see him perform. We are fortunate to have his gift of music as we mourn his loss. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Don Gandy
January 22, 2014
im sorry for your lost loved one
January 22, 2014
Steve, old friend, adios. You left too soon, but you created more memories than any ten of us.
John Wheat
January 22, 2014
Tamara and I send our love and prayers to you Susan, and to Darcie and Felicity and Kevin and to all of Steven's family. My visit w Susan and Steven at the ranch just a month ago was filled w his hilarious and quick wit, and kind heart. He loved watching the deer come in at sunset. His voice IS Texas. And his words our history. With great love and respect to a giant of Texas. Bye, Steven. Your spirit and inspiration lives on.
Richard King
January 22, 2014
You were a great influence in my life and I'm grateful for every moment I had the priveledge to spend with you. RIP Steve
Mike Marks
January 22, 2014
My heartfelt condolences to Angela at this tragic time. Steven and I were cousins and although we never lived in Kopperl, we both spent several summers there visiting our kin. I last saw him at my father's funeral in Kopperl in 2002. How I wish I had had opportunities to see Steven more often — but at times like this we all say things like that, don't we? Heaven's a might better now that Steven's there. Love to Angela and Steven's daughters.
Bill Greer
January 22, 2014
We were shocked to hear of this. We loved hearing you sing. Enjoyed the basketball games at Bedichek when Felicity and Susan played on the girl's team. First saw you at Spamarama when it was at the Cedar Door in 1989. May you rest in peace!
Janet and Gary Tracy
January 22, 2014
So sorry for your loss. The people of Texas especially have lost a legend.
Cookie & George Prentice
January 22, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. Please be comforted in knowing God cares for you and will help you in your time of need. 1 Pet. 5:7
January 22, 2014
So sorry for your loss, and it's hope you will find peace and joy as you reflect on your many memories and happier times with Steven. You will live through this difficult time with God Help. KA, MO
January 22, 2014
Please accept my condolences for your loss may the family lean upon the God who promise to swallow up death forever. TINA LOS Angeles
Tina Morgan
January 22, 2014
My old river friend. What a character! He will be missed.
Tommy D
January 22, 2014
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your loved one. During times of grief, allow God to comfort you and your family for he truly understands what you are going through. (Psalms 72:12-14)
Patty
January 22, 2014
May Our God of all comfort be with Steven family in this time of sorrow.Psalms65:2
Cynthia
January 22, 2014
Condolences to Steven Fromholz' family and loved ones,

We are so sorry to hear such sad and shocking news about the talented singer. Losing a loved one is difficult enough but to lose someone suddenly is even more unbearable.  We pray that the God of all comfort gives each of you the strength necessary to get through these most difficult days. Draw closer to one another for support. May you draw comfort in knowing that he is in God's memory.
L. Mae
January 22, 2014
My prayers to the family. Last saw Stevan @ my brother Russ Million's funeral. He was a great friend and a hell of a guy. He will be missed. Stevan, give my brother a big hug!
Marilee Million-Denson
January 22, 2014
Southern Pride Band,Raleigh,NC 1980
Thank you for your music.You were always a great inspiration to me & my friends.
Bob Poole
January 22, 2014
Texas has lost a great musician. I was fortunate to see Steven perform many times as he shared the stage with my brother, Fletcher Clark. My deepest condolences to Darcie & Felicity for the loss of their father.
Diana Phillips
January 22, 2014
Steven, you truly were "larger than life", and will be sorely missed here on Earth by so many. My prayers are with your family and close friends, and all of us who remember the "old days" at the coffee houses in Dallas. Your music and your memory will live on in our hearts and minds, and will be passed on to new generations. "Unique" barely describes you...I know you'll be teaching the Angels your own special brand of Texas Music, and the Lord will rejoice with you and His Heavenly Host!
Janet Handwork
January 21, 2014
If you were blessed to know him.. His Heart was as big as his smile..He could make a you feel like a star if you were tone deaf..I was fortunate to have worked with him..Today is a sad day..but you know what? God's ears are bent right now...listening to him talk about hog hunt'n!! (No disrespect Lord) We will miss him..& the smiles he brought to so many..My heartfelt prayer's for the family...janet chapin
Janet Chapin
January 21, 2014
My deepest sorrow to the family and friends of Mr. Steven Fromholz, may you all find comfort by drawing close to God during this difficult time. James 4:8
A
January 21, 2014
I hope Steve is hanging out with my x BW Stevenson making music we wish we could hear!
Barbara Stevenson
January 21, 2014
These words and thoughts describe his life to us: Inspiring, influential, hard to keep up with in the 1970's and 1980's, easy to admire, poetically perfect, musically incomparable, pure Texan, hard to dislike, and courageous to the core. We were forever changed when we first saw him and Dan perform in 1969 in Austin.
Dave Henry and Dan Burke
January 21, 2014
So terrible to hear of Steve's tragic death, and sadder still to know it was on that beautiful ranch with you, Susan. I will never forget visiting there back in the 90s -- you were an inspiration. May peace, love, and small comforts be with you in this sad time.

Marla
Austin, Texas
January 21, 2014
Steve was a true life long friend who always was glad to see me and to give me a smile. He will be missed and may God bless him and his family in this sad time. Gone way before his time. I always enjoyed working with Steven.
Big Jim Devaney
January 21, 2014
I am deeply saddened by the loss of a well-respected man and great singer. May God comfort all persons whose lives have been personally touched by Steve's presence and grant you peace during this difficult time. Hold on to your fond memories of Steven and know that he is precious in God's eyes.
January 21, 2014
I have known and followed Steven for years and will miss him. I send my condolences to all the family members and will keep you in my thoughts.
Carl Seale
January 21, 2014
I've been listening to his music almost non-stop since yesterday when I first heard. Been sad ever since. May God be with Steve, his family and many friends in this sad time.

Jim Miller
Ft. Worth
January 21, 2014
Great man, great friend, great Austinite, with a kind soul. You will be missed brother.
Michael Mathews
January 21, 2014
Rest In Peace, and prayers for family and friends.
Allen Jacobs
Eldorado, Texas
January 21, 2014
Condolences to his family...Great Texas artist...his shoes cannot be filled..
Dennis Case
January 21, 2014
Such a tragic loss of one great poet/songwriter. Texas Trilogy should be included in any Texas History class taught in this state.
Chris Glenn
January 21, 2014
To the Fromholtz family: May the God of comfort, comfort you in the days ahead. Our condolences and prayers. Trust in Him and he will be a refuge for all.
January 21, 2014
Fromholz Family,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. It sounds like Steven was a wonderful man and I am again so sorry to hear of his tragic death. I know times like these are very difficult but 'God promises that if we draw close to him he will draw close to us' James 4:8. I pray you all find comfort, peace, and strength during this difficult time.
Tika W
January 21, 2014
My deepest sympathies to the family - Steven Fromholz was a treasure, with his wonderful story-songs. I remember his performances in the early years of the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. The light in his eyes will be in my heart always.
Kay Costales-Swift
January 21, 2014
Steve sang at our wedding in 2000. His talent, grace and authenticity set a tone that will stay with us always. "Bears" is our song, and we will think of him with great affection and admiration whenever we hear it. Our condolences to his family - we are so sorry for your loss.
Lauren and Tom Kent
January 21, 2014
I will miss him
Douglas Belardi
January 21, 2014
To the family of Mr. Fromholz,
Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss. May the fond memories and the kind words of loving friends help heal your broken hearts. I pray that God will give each of you the comfort needed to see brighter days ahead.
(Ps 34:17, 18)
JoAnn
January 21, 2014
cowboy to the core,photo from Austin 1979
real sorry to hear this,years ago I remember Steve coming into Volvo dealer to have his car serviced, those were some great days in Austin back then where one could catch all these great Texas songwriter/singers. was listening to Steve and guys like Gary P. Nunn the other day, my prayers go out to Fromholz family.
Craig Turner
January 21, 2014
My friend Sylvia Carter turned me on to Frummox several decades ago. Steve Fromholtz's Texas Trilogy songs are among my favorites, wonderfully evocative songs about small-town life in the Lone Star State. I was very pleased to find the three songs covered by Lyle Lovett on his "Step Inside This House" CD, a tribute to his favorite Texas songwriters.
Jan Sturdevant
January 21, 2014
Offering my deepest condolences to Mr Fromholz family. May God strengthen you at this difficult time.
Reed
January 21, 2014
...gone on the road; crossed that bridge cross the river wide. Trust the load is lightened- and know that you will truly be missed on this side.
H Jenkins
January 21, 2014
Dear Darcie,

My heart goes out to you and your family on the sudden loss of your Father. Please know that you are in my prayers. May God lift you and keep you strong during this difficult time to you. Love and Prayers to you.
DiAnna J. Benavides
January 21, 2014
We have lost a great one. Goodbye,Steve.
Buddy Temple
January 21, 2014
Steve and I got to know each other several decades ago in the course of working on a couple of plays. I weigh in now to let readers know that he was a very good man. RIP, old friend.
January 21, 2014
A great poet and songwriter. We are all a bit better because of his talents. God speed Steven.
Bruce Hall
January 21, 2014
I have enjoyed your music since I first heard you when you were touring with Stills. And were it not for you, I would never have met my late wife. We ended up sitting by each other at one of your shows. For the music and Kathy, I thank you.
Charlie Gaylor
January 21, 2014
The good Lord is taking all angels away...may he continue to soar the skies...in the midst of all the other angels, watchful eyes...for what the lord has in store is a great Suprise...
April Pierce
January 21, 2014
R.I.P.Steven. Enjoyed your music since the 70's. You will be missed by many. God Bless your family. They will be in my prayers.
Mindy Two
January 21, 2014
Via con Dios Steve. You are with BW and Stevie playing for the Angels now.
Snakeman
January 21, 2014
With deepest sympathy to the Fromholz Family.

May the Hearer of Prayer (Psalm 83:18, Psalm 65:2) grant you strength, courage and the sweetest peace during your time of sorrow. And may you always cherish the many wonderful and precious times spent with Mr. Fromholz.

Juanita, Jacksonville, Fla.
January 21, 2014
Big talent and big heart. I only met him once, at a birthday party Angie invited me to. Angie, I know there is a big hole in your heart and world right now. I think of you often but have lost track. My sincere condolences and prayers are for you and the rest of the family.
Shannon Irion-Morris
January 21, 2014
May the "peace of God" be with you to give you comfort at this time. Phillipians 4:6.
B.W
January 21, 2014
It was my first and only Rio Grande rafting trip. Fromholz and Catfish were our boatmen. We landed on a sandbar late in the day to camp. Mike made supper and pineapple upside down cake in a Dutch oven. Fromholz, Fletcher and I played and sang after dessert. Looking up, there were so many stars, so much laughter, and so much peace. Steve's resonant poetry echoes down Santa Eleña Canyon still.
Kelly M. McDaniel
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