Richard E. Strange

I am so sorry to hear that doctor Strange passed away. My condolences to Mariana, Phil and Steve.

Doc and I both arrived at ASU the same year. He was my band teacher for five years. I now teach band in the public schools. I'll never forget the band performance where doc came in with a tuxedo on and his arm in a cast. Just hours before, he was in an accident riding his Vespa home from rehearsal. This didn't stop him! Dispite the obvious pain, he conducted the concert that evening -...

I met Dr. Strange at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. He later sent me a collection of his articles. The study of his well constructed thoughts, and the brief conversational time he spent with me redefined my teaching. I can only imagine his impact on those who studied closely with him.

The music world has lost an icon but will be forever changed because of his generosity and artistry. My condolences to all of those he loved, and to those who loved him.

Doc,

It was an honor playing for you in the Tempe Symphony Orchestra and working with you as the Music Librarian for the Orchestra. It’s amazing to look back at all you’ve done through the years. Thank you for the wonderful stories and for sharing those precious moments with all of us at rehearsals each week! You were loved and will truly be missed by too many to mention...

My thoughts are with the family during this difficult time - his wife Marion and two sons...

Dear Marin, Phil, and Steve;
My heart breaks for you, and for the thousands of people (not all were considered musicians - such as me!) that doc touched through his life. His life is truely something to be celebrated. I have always had the highest respect and admiration for him. Your loss is truly felt by all of us!

Dick Strange was a serious and dedicated musician and teacher his entire life. He was a colleague and friend. Our condolences go out to Marion, Phil and Steve.

We are sorry that we cannot be at his memorial.

Chuck & Mary Ann Marohnic
Louisville, KY

Doc was a sincere, precise and dedicated musician as well as being a truly good person. He was always willing to travel to my high school concert band rehearsals and would be critical as well as constructive in a terse and honest manner. We judged festivals together, he saved my conducting arm with simple and effective suggestions, literally chased me across the ASU campus when I had not signed my doctoral application in all the required spaces and was a great friend. Great memories!

Some of my fondest musical memories are of my years playing under Doc in the Tempe Symphony Orchestra. His musical knowledge and gentle way with an all volunteer community orchestra was wonderful. Many professional musicians and local musical educators chose to play in the Tempe Symphony because of Doc Strange. Rest in peace for you have touched many lives.

I joined the orchestra after Dr. Strange had left, so I didn't know him personally, except for when he returned for the 50th anniversary concert. He was a truly dedicated musician, and I appreciated performing with him. I heard many positive things about him from other long time orchestra members.

My sympathies on your loss.

I was marching with the Play It Again Band when I learned that Dr. Strange had died. I am so sorry that I did not know sooner. Richard Strange was a great man. He was a great friend to my father Al Davis and was a father and encourager to many people. His skill in encouraging musicians to be their best, while shaping them with kindness and respect is a skill to be admired. It is also something that will be remembered for a long time. His giving spirit and willingness to commit both his...