Richard L. Debaise

Dear Kathie, I just learned of the passing of Richard. I was a clarinet student of his at the University of Bridgeport from 1968 until 1972. He was a great professor and mentor to me. He would have been pleased to know that at 72 years of age, I still perform on the clarinet in three musical ensembles here in the Greater Greenville, South Carolina area. You and your family have my deepest sympathy and prayers.

I am so very sorry to learn of the passing of Richard. I had the pleasure of having him as a teacher while studying music at The University of Bridgeport and the joy of performing with him on numerous occasions in local musical organizations. I will remember him as a fine musician and truly genuine person. My deepest condolences to Kathie and his family!

Richard/Dick was a good friend, a very good musician (clarinetist, pianist) with a wonderful sense of humor. Kathie, please accept our sincere condolences.

Kathie,
So sorry to hear about Richard - May God Bless-
Bob Berey

My deepest condolences to Richard's family. I worked with him for years at Hometown Publications and Hersam Acorn. Richard definitely was one of a kind. He always said what was on his mind and didn't mince his words. I respected him. He also had a great laugh. We both shared a love of animals too. He only sat a few desks away from me, so we talked a lot. It's been years, but I remember him very fondly.
-Sharon Cappetta

I remember playing with Dick in the Greater Bridgeport Symphony. He was a wonderful player and a great guy!

Sending my sympathy for your loss.

My deepest condolences to Mrs. DeBaise and the entire family. Prof. DeBaise was the finest and most demanding music professor I had and I can say without hesitation that I am a better musician because of him. An amazing clarinetist, sight reader, teacher and counselor and my conducting teacher. I will never forget playing chord progression exercises in his office on his piano. His back was to me and his was correcting test papers. He would call out a key and I would play the progression....

Our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Dick and Barbro Lund