Charles J. Gries

My family and I just found out about Buddy. We live in Texas now but are originally from Chicago and Buddy was a part of our family before I was born. My grandfather discovered him at Acorn on Oak and my mom, aunt and myself would go and see him whenever the opportunity availed itself. Once my mother and I moved to Texas we made sure to visit Buddy anytime we came to town. He always knew us not matter how long it had been between visits and I believe my first request from Buddy was Paper...

Buddy was a heroic musician. He was the most joyful person I've ever known. The obvious result of his living, honest faith was an inspiring spiritual strength. I cannot share adequately my sorrow at his passing nor of my great joy of being influenced by him. I'm so grateful to his family for sharing him with us.

“Great joy does not gather the rosebuds while it may; its eyes are fixed on the immortal rose which Dante saw.”

Thanks for fulfillng all our requests.
The line was very long at Skaja when I was there, so I'm signing now.
Thanks for "The Folks Who Lived on the Hill".
You'll be missed by countless numbers.

I just found out about Buddy's passing & my sympathy goes out to the Gries Family with very fond memories of Buddy, Patty & the kids. I'll always remeber "Wits End" printed above the garage door & wondered what it meant - as an adult I now know. Thanks for your insight even back then Buddy. It was great seeing you & Patty at our Dad's 75th birthday. You were all good neighbors & good friends for a long long time.

What sad news today, just hearing about Buddy going home. Brought many many childhood memories. Fondly remembering how he referred to my sister and I as the "svoboda girls". What a dear dear talented man. Having known him since we moved as children to Morton Grove in 1957. Many hugs to Pat, I remember each announcement for the births of each child hanging outside, as well as WIT's END such a big event on Wilson Terrace. He was so very proud of his family. God Bless you Buddy!!

To The Gries Family:
I am so very sorry I would have been there, but I just now found out.. I have kown all of you since I was 4yrs old which is hard to believe has been 52 years now. You have my heartfelt condolences, there will never be another "Buddy" he was a one of a kind man and will be sorely missed by everyone who has ever had the pleasure of knowing him!!

I'll never forget when about 6-7 yrs ago myself, along with his daughter, Terry and about 5 others traveled by limo up to Chicago and surprised Charles and his wife Pat. We arrived unknowinglywhere Charles was playing. We had a terrific time! He was wonderful and it was obvious that the family is a very close family! Both he and Pat have such terrific sense of humor and it made such a very memorable experience.

Buddy, you were the best that Chicago music had to give to the public. Can't remember when we first met, I believe in the 60s!! You were great entertainer at that time and only became greater through the years. Whoever is listening to you today has the best on us. God bless you.

So long Buddy. You will always remain in my heart as a wonderful friend and life-teacher. I've never enjoyed sitting-in with a pianist more than with you. From The Acorn to Coq to Chambers. Heaven is blessed as you have blessed so many.