Karl Kiffe

Karl H. Kiffe, 76, of Las Vegas, passed away May 10, 2004. He was born July 6, 1927, in Los Angeles, and was a resident of Las Vegas for 44 years. Karl Kiffe, drummer and percussionist, was one of the many great jazz musicians who helped put Las Vegas on the map. In Los Angeles, at age 14, he won the semi-finals for the Gene Krupa Contest and at 16, became the leader of "The Hollywood Canteen Kids" band. He and the band played "Hawaiian War Chant" in Jane Powell's first movie, "Song of the Open Road." Other movies followed. He played for Jimmy Dorsey, Tommy Dorsey, Lionel Hampton, Woody Herman and many other swing bands. He sat in with Gene Krupa's band and several times for Buddy Rich. One night in NYC at "Charlie's Tavern", Dizzy Gillespie asked him to sit in with him and Charlie Parker. He was influenced by Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich and Jo Jones. In Vegas during the 60's and early 70's, he played most of the big hotels and night clubs. He played for singers like Ella Fitzgerald, Andy Williams, Dinah Shore and Wayne Newton. Our dad has good friends and fans all over the world. Thank you all! In his life, he helped many starting and starving musicians and others who were in need. We will all miss his playing, his humor and his contagious laugh! Karl is survived by his son, Kevin Kiffe; and daughter, Kim Nolen. Memorial services pending. Arrangements were handled by Bunkers Mortuary.