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John Byrne Obituary
49 Entries
July 19, 2013
I miss you.
Don Fuller
March 5, 2012
I couldn't bring myself to say anything until now.I miss John.He was my friend and co-conspirator in starting and finishing songs.he would call me and say .."don, yya got a minute...listen to this.." I would call him back a couple hours later with the rest worked out . My favorite song that he ever wrote is "world of Fools" which says it all. I still play his music alot.
Chris & Jim Byrne-Phelan
December 14, 2010
To John's family,
Thinking about you all today 15th Dec,
John's 2nd anniversary. We miss him more than ever, and he's always in our thoughts.
Chris & Jim
Signora Pierceall
February 23, 2010
To Sean's family,
I offer my deepest and most sincere sympathies. I have just learned Sean passed away over a year ago and I'm heartbroken. We had a special friendship in the last part of the 60's and he's always held a little piece of my heart. I loved him very much. I hope you've all found peace in your many memories of a wonderful, caring, beautiful man.
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Johnny Mau
February 24, 2009
Count V was very instrumental in my early development as a guitar player singer, as was the Syndicate of Sound. I'm sorry I saw this article just today (Feb 24) and didn't know about the benefit or I surely would have attended. Thoughts and prayers to Joe's wife and family. Rock on.
Roni Depue
February 21, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
I WILL BE ATTENDING THE BYRNE TRIBUTE SHOW TONIGHT WEARING MY COUNT V SHIRT IN MEMORY OF MR.BYRNE
~Roni
jim smith
February 21, 2009
such a sad day to hear one of the few original bay area sounds going silent. a san jose original, the five are still on my ipod to this day. a weirdly whimsical song that hit a chord with us all. he will be missed. blessings to his family
Elaine Byrne
January 21, 2009
To all my family my thoughts are with you. I will miss my uncle very much. I am sorry that I am late in finding out. It went like that with John and I we would go for long periods without talking and then talk for days on end. I will miss him so much. He managed to say the right things to me when I was a little down. We would pass jokes back and forth and laugh so much. He would play me his songs on the phone and I was always so delighted to hear his voice. He called me up one day with this joke. Q: When is a car not a car. A: When it turns into a driveway. I will never forget this beautiful man I had the pleasure of calling my Uncle. Take good care everyone, and stay strong especally for Dagmar. God Bless
Picture from the San Jose Rocks Hall of Fame induction
Tim Bengard
January 21, 2009
They say that the feeling of loss heals with time, but every day is harder because I remember more things that I miss about you. You have left a hole so big that it feels like nothing will ever be able to fill it. I miss you so much. You were another father to me and a good friend. I can't wait to see you again. I love you John.
Mary Baechler
January 5, 2009
Dear Dagmar
Tina, Ellen, Heidi & John
It has been many years since we have been together. Remember, when the children were little, John and I used to stop by on a Sunday for a visit. My John thought the world of Sean. The last time we saw each other was when my John died in 1990, of lung cancer. He, too, was only 61.........way too young! Seems like just yesterday, John and I were watching you two get married. How time goes by- now I am close to 83 and I might add, still singing & doing a show each week for a convalescent hospital and singing in the Church Choir.
I would not even know this sad news if I hadn't accidently hit a wrong key (on line) and up came the headline story about Sean. Needless to say, I was shocked and so saddened to read this. I wish I had known about his passing and the funeral date. I probably could not have come as I am recuperating from bronchitis and have been sick almost a month.
It is so difficult to live through this part of greiving because it just seems like a bad dream. You look back thru the years and wish you could turn the clock back. But I know his fantastic gift of music and artistry will live on in each of you children (you're all grown up now!)Sean will never die because he will continue to live in your hearts. Tina, keep his spirit going in what you are doing - good job!
My four "kids" (Andrea, Arne, Kris & Jon) all in Sean's age group remember his band and "Pyschotic Reaction". "Count Five" played at Andrea's school (Dartmouth), probably in 1967-68.
Our deepest, deepest sympathy goes to you, Dagmar and to Tina, Ellen, Heidi and John. Remember that God is with you and is holdiing your hand.
My love, always
Mary Baechler (phone # is still the same)
Jack Kavanagh
January 5, 2009
Farewell to a true pioneer ! the opening chord of Psychotic Reaction is as innovative as any opening chord in rock history and still excites as much as it did when I first heard it as a 12 year old in "66. My buddie's band was even called the Reaction, though I'm not sure if it was after that song or not. R.I.P. Rock In Peace.
from St. John's , Newfoundland
Tim Zappo
December 28, 2008
All the way up here in Newfoundland,
We loved the "Count V" and are sending our sympathy to the friends and family.
Bill Bredl
December 26, 2008
To the family and friends of John Byrne
I met John through my friend Roy Chaney back in the late 70's. I even had the pleasure of jamming with him and Roy a couple of times.
I always remebered John saying to me "I like that rhythm you are playing" Since I didn't often play rhythm guitar that comment has stuck with me over the years.
Rest in Peace John!
Maria Phelan
December 26, 2008
Go bhfeiceann tu na daichead sort glas o mar a bhfuil tu John......
Le Gra...
An neacht is fearr...!
Maria Phelan
(his favourite niece from Dublin,Ireland!)
Ned Byrne
December 24, 2008
A Shean,
(John)
Slan go foill mo dearthair beag.
(Goodbye for now, my little brother)
Ta gra mor agam leatsa.
(I have a great love for you)
Feicaidh me thu ar ball.
(I'll see you in a while)
Slan, (Goodbye)
Do Dearthair Mor,
(Your big brother)
Eamonn
(Ned)
B. R. Desert
December 23, 2008
As Jimi Hendrix played our national anthem at Woodstock, John is playing right with him....and others right at this moment.
Take heart for we shall ALL join them soon....
Adrian Wise
December 23, 2008
Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult things we can go through, so much more if it is a parent. No words can express what I am feeling right now and I’m sure only time can help me accept the fact.
I met John in 1991, and was immediately impressed by this strong-willed, energetic, and humorous man who invited me into his home. At the time I was a struggling musician of sorts, and John almost tripped over himself to help me become better. When my own family wasn’t really sure how to react to the lyrics I was writing, John was always there to offer encouragement and advice. Often he would ask the same of me while working on his latest riff, or his newest set of lyrics. These, I realize now, were the moments people refer to as “special”. As I write this, I’m already missing his smile when a lyric I wrote spoke to him, or when I was amazed by his latest song. Special times indeed.
I learned a lot about family from John. Having invited me in with open arms, I was there for many of the struggles that the family went through, and I was there for much of the joy. And while we may have been at odds from time to time, I realize now that his love for those around him was a true love, and the joyous moments are the ones that counted most during his lifetime. I am aware of this even more through the people that been kind enough to sign this guestbook.
I thank God for John. The father of my beautiful wife, and “Grampa” to my beautiful son, in whom I see a little of John. My life is blessed because I knew him.
In life John was a symbol of what a man may achieve with creativity and diligence. In passing, John has become a symbol for the best kinds of relationships that are possible in a family. Almost anything can be dealt with if people are of good will and light heart and strong values.
I loved this man as I love my own father, and will cherish the time I was able to spend with him.
Christina Byrne
December 23, 2008
The tide recedes, but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down, but gentle warmth
still lingers on the land.
The music stops, yet echoes on
in sweet, soulful refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.....
With deepest sympathy to auntie Dagmar, Tina, Heidi, Ellen, John-John and family
John Battles
December 22, 2008
To the friends and family of Sean Byrne , and , of course , the surviving members of The Count V ,
Please accept my condolences in this dark time. I know that Sean would want you to celebrate his life and career with joy , not sadness , though one must precede the other. Those who actually knew him , I'm sure , will find their spirits lifted to where they can almost touch his , in what I'm certain will be an Irish wake like no other... Just like you , though I never met the man , his passing saddens me deeply. We are all here , together , as fans , to give you strength. Though I wish I could pay my respects in person , you have more people thinking a good thought for you , and Sean , than you may know . We feel some of what you feel , you're not alone.
With love , John Battles.
KEVIN PHELAN
December 22, 2008
I will miss my uncle John for the occasional jokes we shared over the telephone while I was visiting my mothers house......What a character.
I remember him visiting Dublin in the early 70s, I was 6 years old,and getting bogged down in the snow of the Dublin mountains !!!! ....I also have vague memories of my rocker uncle and my rock n roll dad jamming at several parties during his visit. Most likely a guinness or 2 involved to lubricate the vocal chords !!!!
I will recall him any time I pick up my own guitar over the next months and years.
Say hi to all the other rockers up there john !!!
Kevin Phelan ( His nephew from Dublin, Ireland)
Jacquie Byrne
December 21, 2008
I enjoyed all our telephone conversations I had with my Uncle John he always made me laugh and he sounded so much like my dad Paddy Byrne I was so fortunate to have him Via telephone as much as I did. I hope all the brothers are together somewhere making wonderful music, the entire Byrne family have been given the gift of talent and creativity. While I will dearly miss you uncle John I know the calls from california will keep coming as Tina has taken up where you left off. I love you
My condolences to you Dagmar, Tina Ellen and John Jr
I would Love to catch up with any of my family
My e-mail is [email protected] and telephone is 604-591-7687 or Cell 778-836-2145
Soda
December 21, 2008
Dude.....you'll always rock in our hearts!
Kathleen (Byrne) Rozborski
December 21, 2008
This is Kathleen Paddy Byrne's oldest daughter, John was my uncle. The last time i saw him was in 1973 when the whole family visited him ,Uncle Leo , Uncle Tom in California.It was thrilling to meet him and to hang out with him on the beach in Santa Barbra. He will be greatly missed. I send my condolences to Auntie Dagmar , my cousins and second cousins.
If anyone wants to contact me . my email is [email protected] i will be looking forward to catching up with the family if possilble.
Phyllis Cox
December 19, 2008
My Brother Kenn Ellner knew John from the Count V I was present at the last concert John played at and was so proud of how well he did. He will be missed, I knew all the guys in the band, and how sad everyone must feel. My deepest sympathy.
John Byrne at Dublin Airport, 1964, leaving for USA. Being seen off by 3 sisters and cousin.
Chris Byrne-Phelan
December 19, 2008
"I wish that I could spend an hour at Dublin´s churning surf
I long to watch the farmers drain the bogs and spade the turf ....
... I long again to see and do the things we´ve done and seen
where the breeze is sweet as shalimar ..... "
Sung in duet by him and I over the phone many,many times.)
He was great fun and enjoyed life to the full.
I miss him very much. He was a wonderful brother.
His sister, Chris Byrne-Phelan (Dublin Ireland)
Thomas Byrne
December 19, 2008
I'll miss you uncle John!
Maura Byrne
December 19, 2008
God bless you uncle Beasteen. You will be missed.
Bob Abercrombie
December 19, 2008
John and I shared a few years together at Montgomery Ward in San Jose and continued to keep in contact until recently. I'll miss his weekly calls and jokes - they brightened my day! A good friend - gone too soon!!
Condolences to his family.
Derek Miller
December 19, 2008
I remember John jamming in the living room of my Grandparents house. He was a "rock and roller"!!!!!!!
Love and Light
Jim Phelan
December 19, 2008
My earliest memories of John was when I would call around to date his sister Chris. He'd be waiting at the gate and ask me for some chords to go with some song he had in his head. He was about 14/15 years of age then - his song writing and guitar-playing started that early !. I had earlier given him an old electric guitar, that he loved and never left down. He used up half of my date time !
I love him and will miss our conversations and laughter.
Jim Phelan -Brother-in-Law (Dublin Ireland)
Iris Miller(Ellner)
December 18, 2008
I am a sister of Kenn Ellner of the Count Five. I remember Sean as the new kid across the street, on Revere Ave. who was a friend of my brother Kenn, and who had a wonderful gift of music .It was a lot of fun watching the band grow. May Sean rest in peace. My condolences to his family, and may his memory and music bring them peace and comfort. Much love, Iris
Linda Gravis
December 18, 2008
Like many, I did not know John personally. But I SO remember the hit song "Psychotic Reaction". I was 11 years old and just getting into music and the feel of the 60's! (so long ago). My sympathy to John's family and friends.
Dan Orloff
December 18, 2008
It was an honor meeting John when we inducted Kenn, Roy and Mouse into the San Jose Rocks Hall of Fame in 2006. John and I spoke several times since then about his plans to produce more music. Music flowed through every part of him.
We are all better off that John shared his passion for music with all of us.
Mark and Vikki De La Rosa
December 18, 2008
Thoughts and Prayers from Kennewick. We are truly sorry for your loss.
Sean Julian
December 18, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with John's family and friends.
I was fortunate to share studio time with John this past year.
Such an incredible song writer and musician. I will cherish the memory.
Bill Jackson (Terry Powers & the Detectives))
December 18, 2008
John, you were our trail blazer! Thanks for giving us kids of the 1960s hope for the big stage! John, you are jammin' on God's biggest stage now!
Terry Powers -Andy Just Blues Band
December 18, 2008
Oh, no! I just heard the news...
My sympathies to John's family...
Michael Redmond
December 18, 2008
John Byrne was the brother of my Grandad, I play the piano and every grade passed every theory test he was the first person my grandad would ring to tell him the news. I had very interesting conversations about music with John and he will be deeply missed.
Rick and Pat Lorenz
December 18, 2008
Our condolences to your family and friends.
Kevin Thuerwaechter
December 18, 2008
The music of the Count V will live on and be cherished forever. My heartfelt sympathy for John's family, band mates, and friends.
Freddy Fortune
December 18, 2008
Hi, I didn't know John personally, but have been a fan of the Count V for over 20 years. He would be happy to know that there are many Detroit rock n' rollers who dig & love the Count V and he will never be forgotten!
The Squid
December 18, 2008
The news of John's passing hit me just like the night John Lennon died. God Bless you John. You will soon jam with another San Jose Legend: NED TOURNEY.
Carol King
December 18, 2008
Sean, as he called himself then in the 60's, took me on a date to San Francisco to the Opera. Quite a gentleman and very nice man.
Read Zaro
December 18, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with John's family, friends, and band mates. He was truly someone who made a tremendous contribution to the music scene here in San Jose, and far beyond. He will be missed and long remembered.
Daragh O'Halloran
December 18, 2008
I interviewed John by phone about 2 years ago for a book I was writing. He was an absolute gentleman and was really enthusiastic when recounting (!) his time in the 60s. He rang me a few times over the following months just for a chat. What a lovely man and what wonderful music.
Tom and Judie Wise
December 17, 2008
We were blessed to have known John and are forever thankful that he gave us Ellen as our daughter-in-law and Alex as our grandson. He was kind to us and we will miss him.
Ellen Byrne
December 17, 2008
God bless you John Byrne and may the music spirits accompany you to the great beyond. My sympathies to the Byrne family.
May the blessing of light be on you—
light without and light within.
Thanks, John for inspiring an old wannabe!!!!!!!!
Bryan Yoshida
December 17, 2008
You inspired me to get into my first garage band. Funny, I am still in the garage with yet another band...even at 53 years old.
John McLeod
December 17, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
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