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Don Henke Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Don Henke
Judy Brown
October 25, 2007
My Brother-My Friend, so intelligent and talented! Gone too soon and so sudden. You had a good life. You followed your passion for the arts, the theatre and the music. Your many friends and musicians helped you achieve your dreams. (Thanks to all of you who attended his two memorial services. I know Don was dancing and singing and so proud to have known you.) I always send you a birthday card on your birthday with the same message "Happy Birthday and All That Jazz!" Well, papajazz, this year I would like to add -May the music play on forever, as it will in our hearts! We love and miss you.
Steve Hoskins
October 9, 2007
I'm saddened by the news of Don's death. He was a tireless supporter of every jazz musician he met or heard, myself included. Whenever I saw his face in the audience, I knew there was at least one cat who was listening intently to every note. I always enjoyed chatting with him about the music and musicians. His warmth for the players, his obvious love for the music and his fierce support will be greatly missed.
Geoff Burkman
October 9, 2007
For sundry reasons, I didn't learn of Don's passing until several weeks after the fact, and am all the sorrier for it. Don was a good guy who rarely had a harsh word for anyone. I'm glad to have shared a stage with him.
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Patricia Berg
September 27, 2007
Authentic. That's the single word that I would use for Don Henke. He would have nothing to do with pretenses. You could count on him to be truthful and genuine at all times. He was there to support us all, even in the sweet beginning stages, as I was.
I remember the first time I met him. My friend and I, both jazz lovers, had decided that our children were old enough to be left on their own. So, we headed out to find the REAL MUSICIANS. Those who could play jazz.
Everywhere we went we saw Don. We didn't know then who he was, but he was easy to spot. The man in the hat, the Bermuda shorts and the calf high black socks. I remember distinctly seeing him at the Women and Jazz Festival, and my friend asked,"Who is that man?. We see him every where we go?".
Then one night we saw him sitting behind us at Pacchia. My friend leaned toward me and said, "Ask that man why he's following us!". I leaned over to the table behind us, where Don was sitting, and I said, "My girlfriend wants to know why you are following us.".
With a twinkle in his eye , he handed me a business card from when he worked at the DDN as a Jazz Columnist. I smiled and then I knew. He was just following the music the same way we were.
The days that followed, I gained the courage to overcome my fear of performing and seek out musicians who would agree to play with me. Don was a part of that encouragement. But, even in that respect, Don was first and foremost, my friend. We e-mailed each other for quite awhile, on a daily basis.
We talked as much about people and relationships as we did music. We were a great support system for each other.
I remember one Christmas Eve night around 3-4am (actually Christmas Day). I was online and got an e-mail from him. It was the first Christmas in 25 years that I had been alone, without a husband or partner. I responded to his e-mail and he responded back with, "What are you doing up at this hour?".
As I sat there alone in the dark and the quiet, as my two boys were asleep in their beds, and my daughter was in France for a year on an exchange program, I felt the warmth of a true friend. I responded with, "I just wanted to tell you, "Merry Christmas".
And we remained friends ever since.
I still have him on my contact list of my email, and I find it impossible to delete him. I miss him so much, as I know you all do.
The only consolation I have is that I believe he is still with us, sitting in that club, nodding his head at us.
I will never let go of that memory.
Kathryn Kersey
September 25, 2007
He was a very kind man.
Don Henke, Pamela Mallory at Charley'sWeb
September 21, 2007
Papa Jazz 11/2002
September 21, 2007
at Charley's Web Nov. 2002
Pamela Mallory
September 21, 2007
Don has been a big supporter and dear friend from the time I started singing jazz in the early 90's. He had me to his house early on, for an interview when he was working for the Dayton Daily News, and I was amazed at his record collection! His living room was two chairs, and walls and piles of records. He made some tapes of Helen Merrill for me. We were the only two people I knew at the time, who really got her style. She was off the beaten track of jazz singers, so I got a big kick out of finding out he was into her too. He was into vocalists and that was a nice surprise. And he knew all the words to all the songs, at least, enough to keep a singer on the mark when he sat in the audience. You couldn't b.s. Don Henke if you lost the words, and he would let you know it. He ws a deep appreciator of not just the music, but of the craft of it all. And his knowledge was well- rounded.
I, too, remember great nights at Border's old Centerville location--standing room only, and you could hear a pin drop (well, ok, maybe not -but an espresso steam?)-Don was always there. We watched for him to come in, watched for that trenchcoat and hat. Another favorite happening of mine was the Nite Owl on Sunday nites in Oregon District. Don didn't miss too many of my gigs. He sat up front, nodded his head gently in appreciation of the musicians on the bandstand. Then, before it was too late to catch another set somewhere else, he would be off to spread the love. He usually hit several spots a night to write his praises the next day. He never got paid for his passion and he never slowed down, even when he had no car anymore. He rode buses and taxis and caught rides with friends, and walked some ground.
Often, cats who came up from Cincinnati to play with us remarked they wished Cincinnati had someone like Don, but there was no one like Don. His encouragement was embodied in his constant presence at the gigs. He was always putting in a good word, spoke highly of most everyone, and never played the "critic" in an unkind way. Club owners have much to thank him for, too, of course; he was their best press (and radio) every week. He only got tired of the trends in recent years and spoke out about the noise level in venues where the music became the background, and he and others who came to listen to the music couldn't hear it anymore. ('Couldn't hear on the bandstand, either, sometimes.) Don remembered what it Was When and how it can be Now made him surly at times. Rightfully so. I only caught the tail end of it, but Don Henke saw Dayton's heyday of jazz spots come and go. And now Papa Jazz has left us. I will miss him.
Pamela Mallory Yeager
Jazz Central
Ronald Gable
September 20, 2007
There will be a Don Henke Memorial Jazz Jam on October 9,2007 at Jazz Central from 7 pm to 10 pm (or whenever). Jazz Central is located at 2931 E. Third Street in Dayton. Go to www.jazzadvocate.com or call 937-648-0627 for details.
Glen Brailey
September 20, 2007
Don was a fixture at the Pacchia Jazz Room for so many years. He will be sorely missed. I think of Don as a mentor as he introduced me to numerous jazz musicians and taught me a great deal about the music he so loved. In particular, I remember traveling with Don to Cincinnati one evening to hear Rachel Z play at the Hyatt. Of course, Don knew her and he introduced us. She has played at Pacchia several times since then. I'm grateful to have been able to share some very special times with Don, such as the evening Wynton Marsalis stopped by the club and sat in for set. I know that evening ment a lot to Don as well. Even when Don and I disagreed on the direction of live jazz at Pacchia, he was still incredibly supportive. I will never forget Don Henke.
Don, Doug and Barb Miller, Duante Beddingfield; Jazz Central, January 2006
September 19, 2007
Tom, Duante, Bob, Diane, Don, Hank and Frank; Pacchia, holidays 2005
September 19, 2007
Jan Konya-Grabill
September 19, 2007
Don and I shared many hours enjoying jazz around town the last few years, although less so since I moved an hour out from Dayton. I was always happy to see him and share his table at whatever venue we found ourselves, and I appreciated his opinions and knowledge of music and the people who make it great locally. I'll miss him always, but I expect I'll feel (and welcome) his presence whenever I listen to jazz.
Sara Davila
September 18, 2007
I never got a chance to meet Don. I live in South Korea so it made arranging a meeting a little difficult. However Don liked my art and enjoyed discussing music with me. He would send long letters about all sorts of odd things. His communications with me helped me feel connected with the US. I will miss him.
Todd Couch
September 18, 2007
Don was a wonderful human being who had a great passion for the arts, both as a performer and a fan of Jazz. We were very lucky to be able to enjoy the wisdom of his thoughts and the spirit of his performances. His passion and kindness will not be forgotten nor easily found again. The Dayton Jazz Orchestra will greatly miss our biggest fan. Thanks Don!!! God bless Don and his family.
Suzette Smith (formerly Little)
September 18, 2007
It seemed like no matter where or when there was a jazz performance in town, I’d look up and see Don there. He was an interesting person and he was fun - had a mischievous sense of humor. There was always a smile and some conversation for me, and not just about jazz. He loved to talk about his wonderful daughter.
I respected Don’s knowledge and opinions on jazz, so when he wrote some kind reviews of my singing, I was very humbled. Don was such a sweetheart and will be greatly missed. It’s going to feel so strange not seeing him around anymore.
I send deepest condolences to the family and closest friends. May God comfort you through this difficult time.
Jim Anderson
September 18, 2007
Don's presence and smile will be missed by all of us in the Jazz Community.His truthfulness about the love and RESPECT for "THE" music was sincere and he'd let you know it! He was always encouraging and fought for the continuation and preservation of this American classic called Jazz.
Here's having a "Beautiful Blues Bass Day" to you Don !!
Peace.
Jim.
With warm sympathies to the family from:
The Cohesion Jazz Ensemble-Bobby Scott,Jim Anderson co/founders and leader.
Virginia Burroughs
September 18, 2007
It's hard to imagine that I won't run into Don in the Oregon District or at concerts anymore. But, I'm glad I had the opportunity to know him, and to work with him in a production at the Theater Guild.
Rick & Judy Evans and the Masters of Jazz
September 17, 2007
Don was a man of many opinions ad never hesitated to state them. His strong belief in jazz and its many forms led him down a very colorful path. He championed everyone who wanted to try. He rarely critized them. He would always have a word of hope for them from good job to maybe you should try producing.We are going to miss seeing the hat, the coat and the beard that made him distinctive. He and Miss Freddie are sitting and watching all of us and we are better fot it.Our prayers are for the family and friends who are impacted by his passing. Wish we could see just one more nod of his head.
Laura Gentry
September 17, 2007
As a jazz promoter, Don Henke was one of my greatest supporters in the Dayton area along with Ron Gable, Dave Barber, and Jerry Gillotti. I can't remember how I met Don, but he was always a champion of jazz, in his writing and his patronage of jazz venues and events. He was one of few people who remembered listening to my Dad's Sunday jazz segment on WPFB in Middletown, OH. I don't know who will pick up the torch in his place, but he'll truly be missed.
Bill Daniels
September 17, 2007
Don was an interesting man and a great person to know. His combination of sincerity and genuineness was special, and all too rare to find. God Bless you, Don.
BOB HARRIGAN
September 17, 2007
Although I did not know Don personally my feelings are that all
of us lose when someone of Dons'
stature passes on......may God bless his loved ones and many friends.Respectfully,Bob H.
(jazz Festivals/Florida)
CHET BAUCH
September 17, 2007
Upon losing a friend , one tries to recall the times of warmth, goodwill, and charity of the person. My relationship with Don was one of student and teacher. His knowledge of jazz, the players, its history was always a reliable source. He was an aficionado of the art form and I am richer for having known him, saddened by his passing. Rest in peace my fiend.
Duante Beddingfield
September 17, 2007
Don and I grew very close over the last few years, and we talked or saw each other daily. I don't even remember how we met, but it's already so strange not having him around...but at least I'll always have the video of his beautifully nuanced portrayal of Mitch in 'Four Beers' at FutureFest 2000--one of the best stage performances I've ever had the pleasure of seeing.
The region has lost a tireless arts patron and a really great guy.
Bill Burns
September 16, 2007
I was lucky to have known Don. He encouraged me when I was being my own worst enemy, like most musicians can be. He taught me that the greatest skill one can posses is that of listening. He loved to listen and really got inside the sound of the multitude of groups he came out to support. Dayton was lucky to have Don's writing that encouraged listening in our TV coma society. Because I knew him, my life has been changed for the better. Peace to his family and friends. I will miss the bearded man who came to listen.
Gary Onady
September 16, 2007
Don was the most recognized jazz supporter in the Dayton area. His column was the first I would read on Sunday's in the Dayton Daily News. He had a subtle way of putting the performer's personality into his reviews (and sometimes not so subtle political comments), all of which lead to interesting and highly appreciated reading. He truly opened my eyes to the Dayton (and Cincinnati) jazz scene. Don, I want to thank you so very much for enriching my life in this way.
Randy Villars
September 16, 2007
Don was a man with a true love for and fascination with jazz music. His energy and efforts helped to keep the music alive in Dayton. I will miss seeing him out and about and talking with him about the music.
Linda Dachtyl
September 16, 2007
I only got to know Don over the last couple of years through emails and meeting him in the area at the Jazz Central jams and a couple gigs I have played in the area. He was very decidated to all of us musicians in this area of the state and I will miss him.
Lincoln Berry
September 16, 2007
Don was truly a devoted jazz fan. It was always great to see him when was playing at Jazz Central or elsewhere. He was a great friend of my wife Jo and myself. Dayton and the worldwide Jazz community will surely miss him.
Lee McKinney
September 16, 2007
Don was a true friend of the musicians and of the jazz scene. He will be greatly missed.
Richard Young
September 16, 2007
Don was a real gentleman. I was honored to work with him in a couple of shows in local theatre, including the one that Jim Lockwood mentioned. He will truly be missed in the theatre community.
james Brytus
September 16, 2007
Don was a source for all the jazz news around Dayton, he will be sadly missed by his readers and friends.
Peggy Edwards
September 15, 2007
My heart is saddedned for the loss of a great friend. Don taught me the love of Jazz and brought me into a world of great music. He has such a love for each musician and the talent they hold. He had an amazing memory of every song played, the history of that song. Each player had something special that he couldn't wait to go hear. Jazz was his oxygen to life. He wanted all to share the experience of this great music. It was his world. I'm so thankful I was apart of that world that he shared.
I would like to say I know he was very grateful for all the thoughts and prayers and visits from everyone. He would want you to know that.
You will be greatly missed by us all. Yet, where there is Jazz, You will always be there. For you are; PappaJazz.
Jim Woodord
September 15, 2007
The jazz community in southern Ohio will definitely not be the same again and especially in Dayton. Don seemed to know all and see all throughout the Dayton jazz scene. I have many things to thank him for but one that left an indelible impression was his alerting of the jazz community that legendary bass player Charlie Haden would be playing at Miami University in Hamilton. Not only was it such a beautiful concert that it almost brought tears to my eyes but following a Charlie Haden query we learned that about a third of the crowd was there because of Don's article. He was ever vigilant for jazz performances. Thank you Don.
Ron Gable
September 15, 2007
Don Henke and I were not bosom buddies, we were friends, we respected each other and we felt we were fellow soldiers in the same battle. I think we were too much alike to be bosom buddies, both highly opinionated and usually 180 degrees opposed in our musical taste. When it came to supporting jazz we were locked in step and both of us knew we could count on the other. So in many respects I’ll miss him more than most.
When Don lost his job writing for the Dayton Daily News, I started publishing his “Jazz Scene” column on the Jazz Advocate website. I have 206 of his articles on my computer starting with July 19, 2003. In addition I have another dozen of earlier “Jazz Beat” articles he had sent me while working for the paper. I remember first meeting Don at Borders Books in Centerville when they used to have local jazz artists perform weekly. He was wearing a trench coat and looked a bit like Columbo and everybody knew him.
Don’s last request to me was for a memorial jam in his honor at Jazz Central so this is not a matter of my choice; it was his specific request, which I will do my best to fulfill. I will have details on the Jazz Advocate website very soon. In the meantime I have posted some photos that I’ve taken of Don at various times and places.
If God loves jazz, I know Don Henke is now right in the middle of it.
Pamela & Don
September 15, 2007
Rachel Z & Don
September 15, 2007
At Charley's Web
September 15, 2007
April & Don at Jazz Central
September 15, 2007
With friends at Gilly's
September 15, 2007
Renee & Don at Gilly's
September 15, 2007
Alexia & Don at the Crowne Plaza in Dayton
September 15, 2007
Don Henke (October 1938 - October 2007)
September 15, 2007
Alexia Tate (nee Henke)
September 15, 2007
A more detailed obituary will be listed at www.newcomerfamily.com soon. Thank you for your kind words about our dad. In addition to what I'm sure will be a wonderful jazz event honoring him, a memorial service will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home's North Chapel at 4104 Needmore Rd. in Dayton on Tuesday, September 18, 2007.
Visitation from 5-8 pm with a service at 8 pm. All are invited to share their memories. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his
name to the seedling Foundation to support Arts Programs at Stivers High School in Dayton. Donations can be sent to PO Box 1858, Dayton, OH 45401-1858.
Stacy M. Thompson
September 15, 2007
I will never forget the many conversations Don and I had about our mutual love of jazz music. His knowledge was endless and his legacy will live on in this town for a very long time. Rest in peace Don....I know in my heart you are grooving to some great jazz in the great beyond.
Teresa (Misty) Gill
September 14, 2007
I wish to give much honor to Don Henke for all the enthusiasm and hard work he put towards highlighting ALL musicians in his jazz column (Including Myself).
Throughout the few years I've resided here, Mr. Henke has appeared at so so many of my events. I gradually realized that he did this not just because of his love for the music, but also because of his desire in supporting our talents. Honestly, as a Chicago native where local talent is highly supported, I've never witnessed such encouragement of local musicians as jazzadvocate.com - which includes Don Henke & Ron Gable. I truly believe Mr. Henke's name and spirit will live on - in Dayton (and Beyond)....
Thank you so much, Misty
Jim Lockwood
September 14, 2007
I am saddened to hear of Don Henke's passing, but grateful for the many experiences we shared in commuity theatre. I'll always fondly remember his outstanding supporting performance in the 1998 FutureFest winner "Asher's Command".
Dawn Roth-Smith
September 14, 2007
Don will be missed in the Theater Community.
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