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Erik Townsend Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Erik Townsend
Arthur Ray GROSS
May 4, 2022
Today I heard Harve PRESNELL singing it reminded me of Buck. In the late 50s we both attended MJC and one summer worked together on the Graveyard shift at the Grange Feed Mill in Modesto. He was a Big strong Hard Worker who sported a Positive Attitude and a Big Smile.
With his Positive Attitude and Cheerful Disposition, he was very popular with all the crew.
RIP Buck.
July 14, 2015
Sorry to hear about Buck's death. We were in choir together at the University of Pacific. He had a great voice then and obviously continued with his singing career after school.
Stuart Price
August 19, 2012
enjoyed your drection for me and the cast in Man Of La Moncha about 1960 . How time slipts by . Jerry Johnson
Kevin Grubb
November 20, 2011
Hi uncle Buck. I was thinking about you today. I miss you.
K-Bob
Pirate King
May 13, 2011
Was thinking about you again today, Buck! I can still hear you bellowing at me during rehearsal, "Jim...! For the last time, stop upstaging!!" You are greatly missed.
Kate Tallcott
April 8, 2011
Oh.
buck, I watched 940 movie hullabaloo. Of radio opera and Riddi Paliocio. My first opera with our family beth was13Jeff11 and Charlie5 5. Your influence inspired us all and the 7grandkids in annunciating Remember say"watermelon"if you don't know the words,. I pray and thank you and your earth angel Erica. Rick still braggs you made him a jilted lover and a priest.yes you are the only tenor needed there, tone it down a bit
.love and prayers to the future. the Orchard of the Arts made it Kate.
February 10, 2011
Very sorry to hear about this. Scott Davenport, Duvall WA
March 8, 2010
Il tenore de greates nel mondo. Otto, I have missed your laugh. Sleep in peace.
May 22, 2009
I am so sorry to here of Buck. He was a great director in the few shows I did for him. I learned alot. He will be missed
Flannery Ryan
April 16, 2009
I met Buck during my high school exchange year in Stockton CA. My Aunt and cousin, whom I was staying with took me along in the opera gala production 2007. I also participated in Carousel. I really enjoyed working with Buck. It was so much fun to have conversations in German with him where no one else could understand what we were saying. Later I was told that the best friend of my dad, who died as well in a car accident just a few months ago, had worked with Buck as well. It made me realize how small this world is and how much we all have to learn to stick together. I was really shocked to hear about Bucks death. I send all my love to the family and I wish I could have been there for the honouring of his life. I will never forget him!
Rodney Stenborg
February 20, 2009
I learned of Buck's passing several months after it happened. I also had a death in my family back in November. Buck and I first met at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. We became good friends and remained good friends after we left Curtis. I later met Buck in Germany where I was also beginning my opera career. Buck and I saw each other on occasion later in New York before he moved to Modesto to become director of TOP. We shared many memories together during our friendship. He is certainly missed.
(formerly with the Houston Grand Opera)
Christine Dobrydnio
January 23, 2009
No photo to send but a heartful of memories and much sadness at the loss of such a remarkable person. Both Buck and Erika contributed so much to the arts and the cultural lives of the kids at St Hilda's and St Hugh's, Erika starting the Baby Ballerina pgm, and Buck directing student performances such as "Oklahoma" and guesting at benefits for the school. Lisa and Chrissy both had the Townsend smile and bright bubbly personalities of their parents, the warmth, energy, and good whole heartedness. Buck also helped ALOT with the repairs at the Convent. It was more than once I called him to bail me out of a collosal repair mess that I unwittingly got myself into. Buck taught me to scrape, paint, sheet rock, fix leaky pipes, and many were the times we plastered together. (Note, I said plastered, not GOT plastered!) This was way back when I was a nun in the city and the Townsend's were part of my Order's life. Time goes by, Buck went on to create a brilliant opera company and with Erika's abiding presence and love to leave a lasting footprint in the cultural history of Modesto and opera in general. He will be missed but not forgotten. We wish him well as he continues on his journey. As he said when Chrissy died, "Now she's part of everything", now so is he.
Fare thee well, dear one, fare thee well.
Jeanne Askew
November 15, 2008
I am so saddened to hear about Buck's passing. My children enjoyed playing in Porgy and Bess. He was a thoughtful and giving man. Erica I am here to help you with anything. Jeanne Askew
Erika Townsend
November 15, 2008
I have two thank yous!
1) I would like to thank everyone who has participated in the guest book. Your messages bring much comfort to me and my family.
Thank you for remembering Buck and thank you for remembering us.
2) A very sincere thank you to all the people who participated in making Buck's "Celebration of Life" such a heart warming and wonderful afternoon.
Nikki Mays/McInturf
October 21, 2008
Buck was one of my greatest teachers and dearest friends. He taught me to face each challenge with courage, to believe in my dreams, follow my heart, and most importantly to believe in myself. He helped me through some of the darkest times in my life and I will be forever grateful for the long talks we had (when we were supposed to be having voice lessons) and for the love he showed each step of the way. I will be forever changed because of this one man. I miss you Buck.
Erika, I am thinking of you. Love you.
Alice Noriega
October 17, 2008
Many years ago when I first moved to Modesto and began working at the Yosemite Community College District, one of the first persons I became friends with was Judy Schmidt. Knowing that I had just moved from San Francisco, she asked me if I liked opera. I said I did and she told me about her brother's opera company. That's how I first knew of Buck Townsend, Erika and TOP. I was fortunate to attend many productions, serve on his Board and volunteer for the company. I always admired his love for opera and family, but most of all his giant personality.
A few years ago I lost my Mother and I will never forget that Buck took the time to sing at her church service. The beautiful Ave Maria brought me such comfort and I will always appreciate Buck's kindness during a sad time in my life.
Erika and Judy, I am so sorry for your loss. Be comforted knowing that he knew the deep love you each had for him.
Judy, he was blessed in having you as his sister.
Love,
Alice
Dr Charles Barber
October 15, 2008
I had the honor of working with Buck in Merced and Modesto, as a conductor for him, playing viola, and speaking pre-curtain -- and delighted in every occasion. Currently working out of the country, I just heard the news from Erika, and am deeply saddened.
What a loss. What a personality. What a vision.
We did 'Fanny', 'La Mancha', 'Messiah', and other projects together. One of them was among the funniest I ever knew.
We were doing a version of Wagner's 'Ring', and I was the so-called narrator. At one early-morning school performance, after the intro and the show was actually rolling, I saw -- to my horror -- that Buck was leaving the pit!
He walked by me onstage, while I was blabbering away to the audience, and whispered, "Keep going. Forgot the damn score!", and went back to his dressing room to get it.
With his usual aplomb he came back on, turned the event into schtick, got the laugh he needed, and returned to the pit.
Buck was an amazing man. We'll all miss him, terribly.
Kari Lasee
October 7, 2008
I will miss Bucks larger than life command of our opera community. His dedication and love of music which he gave anyone and everyone willing to have it. I was most intimidated when quite a bit younger I tried out for the opera orchestra. I played violin on and off for many years with the opera players. Intimidation soon turned to respect, love and admiration. We soon traded witty one liners to ease up the intense rehearsals we were working on. He wasn't your typical orchestra conductor. He had high expectations and would get a little irritated when the musicians in the back couldn't hear a cut or where to start. It wasn't long before the orchestra and he started to connect as well as he did with his singers. We were to eat, sleep, and breathe our opera music for the short prep time we actually had.. As a violinist I know it definately made me a stronger musician. The music is so intense with key and time signatures changing every other measure. It was hard not to get lost in the music and just want to sit back and enjoy the show. Working with him definitely made me a better musician and introduced me to the passionate world of opera.
Although I haven't played for the opera for a few years, this morning I awoke from a dream about playing an opera show and attending the after party. He looked great and his jolly heartfelt belly laugh filled the room. I got online first thing and found sadly he has joined our heavenly father. Maybe he was flying over to say goodby. I will pray for you Buck and your friends and family. Thank you for this wonderful life experience I shall cherish them always. Rest in peace maestro.
You will sadly be missed by all whose life you touched. Kari Lin Lasee
Chris Solarez
October 1, 2008
I am very sad to hear that my dear friend is no longer living. I first met Buck at MJC in 1955. We sang in many of musical productions under the direction of Dr. Robert Mc Knight. He always got the lead part and I got to be in the chorus. He had a wonderful voice. He was always good to all his friends and had a very positive outlook. We also participated together with the MJC singers. He took me in as a friend even though, I was a football player from Turlock and he a cheerleader from Modesto high. We had many great musical momments in all the musical activities at MJC during 1955 to 1957. He had alot of talent and he shared that talent with everyone. He was a star then and a super star now. My deep sympathies to his entire family during this time of loss.
Sally Mouzon
October 1, 2008
I am truly grateful that I got to know and work with Buck - rewarding and fun, and an honor in every way. I will miss him.
With much love and sympathy,
Talia, Quincy, and Wanjiru Waweru-Benson
September 29, 2008
Erika,
So sorry to hear of Buck's passing away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May his soul rest in peace.
Bert Roper
September 26, 2008
Erika,
Well, now the tenor section in the heavenly chorus can finally take a break. What a joy he was. Grace and peace to you and your family,
Bert
John Craton
September 23, 2008
I had the privilege of working with Mr. Townsend briefly last summer when members of his company produced excerpts from my opera "Inanna" for the Assyrian Aid Society. He was one of the most enthusiastic and passionate people I have ever worked with, and also one of the most kind and genial in the business. A personality like his is a rare find, and it was a thorough joy to be in his presence. His devotion to the art was indefatigable, and even after being diagnosed with his illness he continued offering consultation for productions this past summer. Such was the impression he made on me that I chose to dedicate my latest opera, "The Parliament of Fowls," to him this past spring. A more devoted opera lover one will seldom meet. May his memory be eternal.
Mary McCluskey
September 22, 2008
Erika,
We are so very sorry to hear of Buck's passing. We no longer live in Modesto and just heard today. Buck introduced our whole family to the joy of opera through the children's chorus, and we will remember him always.
Sincerely,
Mike and Mary McCluskey and family
Theresa I Walker/Dixon
September 22, 2008
Buck helped me devolp a love for music at a youg age. He helped me devolp my voice and taught me the meaning of professionalism. he was a great teacher,mentor and director. He will always be remembered by me.
DEBORAH L. DIXON
September 22, 2008
A Reminiscence
YES, thou art gone! and never more
Thy sunny smile shall gladden me;
But I may pass the old church door,
And pace the floor that covers thee.
May stand upon the cold, damp stone,
And think that, frozen, lies below
The lightest heart that I have known,
The kindest I shall ever know.
Yet, though I cannot see thee more,
'Tis still a comfort to have seen;
And though thy transient life is o'er,
'Tis sweet to think that thou hast been;
To think a soul so near divine,
Within a form so angel fair,
United to a heart like thine,
Has gladdened once our humble sphere.
By Anne Bronte
The Poetry Foundation
1954. Last week of school. Buck Townsend and Marianne Corson, L, and Nancy Stensaas outside the Choral rehearsal room at Modesto High School.
Drehne Bailey
September 21, 2008
Buck Townsend was one of my heroes at Modesto High. I sat by him in Robt. Wing's A Cappella Choir. Buck was a great singer, performer in musicals and was so gifted at human relations he was elected President of Student Government his senior year, 1954. He had a great personality and was a true leader. I was scared when chosen to be the piano accompanist for the Glee Club and Octette. Buck always encouraged me, saying, "You can do it, Bailey, don't quit! Hang in there, man." We lost track of each other for over 50 years. Last year we exchanged Christmas cards and letters...and Buck was still the cheerful, positive, upbeat person that he was at MHS. We missed him at MHS my senior year, 1955. He really left a gap in the tenor section that no one else could fill. If there is music in heaven I'm sure that Buck is right there singing and conducting and organizing an Opera. May God bless Erika and Lisa and the Townsend Opera Players.
( I spent 30 years as pianist-entertainer at Hilton Palacio Del Rio, San Antonio,TX Riverwalk.)
Miriam Bermann
September 21, 2008
Buck provided an introduction to opera and vocal performance for my daughter, Esther, and for me. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to work with the Maestro.
Judy Yates
September 21, 2008
Erika.... Just a note to say how sorry I am. Buck brought out something special in each of us and though he often pushed us out of our comfort zones, it always moved us into a higher level of artistic accomplishment.
You are in our prayers...
Judith Blegen Gniewek
September 20, 2008
Dear Erika,
So many thoughts and memories have been going through my mind these past days. My memories of Buck at Curtis----perhaps I've told you this story. I had just met Buck and shortly thereafter he asked me for a date. He took me to a movie and as the story unfolded, there was Buck up there on the big screen! Impressive first date!
For me, Buck was a "Bigger than Life" type of personality--when he appeared in a room, everybody took notice. I felt comfortable in the sense that when Buck was present, everything would be alright. Not in a controlling way but with a good spirited command of putting things in order. We became good friends who eventually went separate ways.
Our paths crossed again during a summer with the Santa Fe Opera. You and Buck were married and had just had Lisa not too long before. Tom, my son, had also recently been born. Buck was singing tenor roles and I was performing "Susana" in "Marriage of Figaro". I was having a very difficult time. As I remember, I had lost a lot of weight, just recuperating from the birth. During a performance, I became weak and nauseous on stage. At one point, I actually had to turn away from the audience, step into the wings and vomit in my apron! Yuck--that was a tough summer. It was 1970 and I had just sung my debut season at the Met.
Time went by and I was so happy and proud to hear about the challenges Buck was taking on with his new Townsend Opera Players. What an incredible investment of talent, devotion, and hard work you two have put forth over the years. I can't recall the date, but we had a warm reunion with Buck when he came through New York while Ray and I were still with the Met. It wasn't until 2001 that we finally made a trip to visit you and Buck in Modesto. We're sorry it couldn't have been for a performance of TOP but it was a visit we really enjoyed---until we woke up the next morning, Sept 11th, turned on the hotel TV as we packed, and were aghast at what had happened in New York City! Buck took us with open arms into your home where we stayed before returning to San Francisco. That, most unfortunately, was the last time we saw Buck although we closely followed the events and performances of TOP in your mailings. The opening of the Gallo Art Center with TOP as the resident opera company was an incredible achievement for you and Buck---you must have been bursting with well deserved pride.
The past two years, we have been involved in the formation of a small opera company in Naples, Florida and it has made us extremely aware of the formidable task and monumental achievement you have accomplished in Modesto. Erika, we deeply hope you will continue to receive deserved support to carry TOP forward.
This has been a terrible loss for you and Lisa but it has also been a personal tragedy for us and the many,many people Buck's life has touched
Love,
Judy and Ray
Diana Cantrelle
September 20, 2008
Dear Erika, Barbara, Family and Family of Friends,
I am stunned and it is with great sadness to hear of Maesto Townsend's passing.
I had the great pleasure of working with Buck in a series of concerts, Ruth in Pirates of Penzance, and Martha in the Secret Garden.
Like a roaring lion, Buck's fire came from a deep passion to find the truth in the art.
I feel blessed to have worked the Townsend Opera Players, and the man at the helm, Buck Townsend.
"Until we meet again, may the Good Lord keep You in the palm of His Hand!"
Othalie Graham
September 20, 2008
Erika and Lisa,
Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
With caring thoughts,
Gene, Pauline & Andrew Binder
September 18, 2008
Dear Erika, Lisa & Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Stephanie Korn
September 18, 2008
Dear Lisa & Erika,
We were so sorry to hear of Buck's passing. Our thoughts are with you.
Steve & Stephanie Korn
Tracy Forest De La Mora
September 18, 2008
Dearest Erika, Lisa, Barbara and Judy;
Buck was so many things to me and then later to John and I; a brilliant vocal coach, teacher, friend, mentor, agitator, guide, and no-holds barred musical genius. From the beginning when we met, I knew he was something truly special, even when we were grumpy and tired from the long rehearsals. Buck brought out an operatic facet in all of us like a brilliant diamond; he made it fun, interesting, frustrating sometimes, but very rewarding when we finally took our bows after a performance; he brought out my confidence and encouraged me when I thought I couldn't sing in Italian; he knew I could and convinced me and many others. With all of your support and hard work, he accomplished so much for our community and put on some incredible productions.....even a very pregnant Lisa coaching us on to dance in the Mikado; your love for him sets a wonderful example of
what magic can take place when we all pitch in. Know that he will forever stay in our hearts....and we will carry that torch forward when we perform this season, and many seasons to come.
Tracy & John De La Mora
Hannah Bateman
September 16, 2008
Uncle Buck,
Thank you for teaching me how to sing. You will be in my heart forever. God bless you.
May you rest in peace Buck! Duana Demus Leslie
Duana Demus Leslie
September 16, 2008
Buck has left a tremendous legacy behind him for all of us to be grateful for. I am grateful to have worked with Buck as Sara in Ragtime and other concerts. If there is anything I can do to help the company and family during this time let me know.
I just recently moved to Modesto with my husband.
Jonelle Bateman
September 16, 2008
Buck introduced opera to our young family and the impact has been life-changing. We will simply never be the same. I can not imagine over the years how many others he touched with the opera bug. He created a love and hunger for opera throughout the community. In his various educational programs he reached the the hearts of children through school shows, summer programs, year round performance venues and one on one coaching to name a few. As he neared the end of his journey on Earth he made provisions to keep not only Townsend Opera alive, but also to continue his youth outreach programs. And Buck being Buck on his last days was planning and directing his own memorial. Bravo Maestro, you will be missed.
My favorite memory of Buck was while I was painting the set for Carousel. I brought my son AleQ along to help. We had this enormous circle to paint to look like a view of the Earth and Buck wanted a 3-D effect. As usual Buck told me the effect he was looking for pointed to the paints and brushes and said with a wink "you're the artist figure it out."
I had this great idea of mixing oils, and water based paint and getting a swirling effect. It was impossible to do this in the warehouse (if you've been there, you know), so Buck suggested we do it outside. We told him we thought it might rain, but he was sure it would only lightly sprinkle. It turned exactly as I had hoped and just as Buck had said it only sprinkled-for about thirty seconds before it poured. We quickly moved the catastrophe inside, but the outside area was covered in blue paint. Rather than cry over spilt paint, the three of us laughed our heads off as we swept the blue paint around the pavement in an attempt to clean it up. Our feet and hands were blue, we were under a terrible time crunch and the Earth had to be redone, but somehow rather than panic we just saw the ridiculousness of it all and made a great memory. Thank you "Uncle BucK".
Janice Wilhite Wright
September 16, 2008
I went to high school with Buck. Sympathy to all who loved him. He was a Blessing to all who crossed his path of life. He helped me at the time I really needed it. His words brought me back to where I needed to be. He will be greatly missed.
Trish Poole
September 15, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Matthew Binder
September 14, 2008
Uncle Buck,
You will always be remembered for the great memories I have of you.
Becki Brown
September 14, 2008
Dearest Erika and family,
This is from a long lost friend in Tracy.
From 1986 to 1994, TOP was a big part of my life---singing in Camerata, Messiah's and other roles as a Mezzo.Now I sing for the glory of the Lord---as I know Buck must be right in there with the zillions of Angels,echoing his robust tenor voice above all the others. He is eternally home now.
But Chrst has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep . . . For as in Adam all die, so in Chist all will be made alive!(1 Corinthians 15:20)
Buck is alive in heaven . . .with your daughter in paradise! and for you my sweet Erika and for others who adored Him:
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (Matthew 5:4)
Buck made a difference because nothing great is accomplished without much sacrifice---and that He did.
My memories of him are all good for I remember at his 60th Birthday party I told all that gathered ----of 60 wonderful things about him.
You,Lisa, grandchildren, family and friends of Buck will be in my prayers this week and for the weeks to come. May our God bring you the peace that surpasses all understanding and surround you with His love and warmth during this time of mourning. I know that you will treasure your memories together as a long lasting legacy. Rest in Him always as you draw nearer to Him and Him to you.
In His Love,
Becki B. Brown
Tracy, CA
9/15/57: Buck & Judy
September 14, 2008
Buck at the McKnight farm
September 14, 2008
Marianne Corsen, Buck & Nancy Stensaas:M.H.S.
September 14, 2008
Lorraine Schrein Garate
September 14, 2008
Dear Friend
Thank you for all the special memories from M.H.S. The encouragement to fallow my dreams, evan though they didn't involve music. Thank you for you laughter & help for the 2 years that I worked for Mr McKnight, with the horses. I remember how kink and gentle you were with Mrs McKnight. Thank you for singing at my wedding in 1957. Thank you for all the years of laughter. Most of all, thank you for sharing your glorious voice and you passion for music with your family, your friends and your comunity, both localy and across the nation. Till we meet again, know that you will never be forgotten.
Lorraine Schrein Garate
September 14, 2008
Dear Erika & family
My heart breaks for you, at this time, and rejoices for your loving Buck. The angels in heaven celebrate to have their joyful Buck home again. Everyone, ever touched by Buck, prays, now, for your peace and comfort. God bless you.
AleQ Bateman
September 12, 2008
Uncle Buck,
You were more than an uncle to all of us. You were the first person to ever see anything in me and always reminded me to never doubt myself. You gave me a love not only for Opera but just for simply singing. You respected me, and in doing so made me respect myself. You taught everyone that sometimes when you shoot for the moon you actually hit it! There is so much more to say and more that I cannot express.
Mentor, Teacher, Maestro, Uncle, Grandpa, and Friend.
I'll always love you and miss you...
(Every year, before we performed the Messiah, Buck would tell about a "dream" that he had. He dreamed he had died and gone to heaven and was in the choir about to sing the Hallelujah Chorus. There were 10,000 Basses, 15,000 Baritones, 20,000 Sopranos, and one tenor, him. After the first few notes God stops and says... "A little less from the Tenor section please." Sing away Buck sing away!)
George baker
September 12, 2008
The examples of dedication and diligence have been a beacon for achieving success in the Fine Arts, thru Buck, for me. Willing to do all that is necessary to produce a show is what I have to follow on with. The 5 years I was involved daily with the TOP truck scurrying about to get things done, the satisfying rehearsals and personal enrichment are constant reminders of what was left to me from Buck. My heartfelt sympathies to Erika and staff and board. (*aka George III) God bless all of you!
Heather Williams
September 12, 2008
I am glad I got to meet you when I did. I am thankful for the short time I got to spend with the company in rehearsing the 2007 Gala and performing with you at the Messiah. Because of the Gala, I was inspired to develop my opera chops and see what I can do with my voice. Thank you for the inspiration and may you rest in peace.
Mel Echelberger
September 12, 2008
Buck, Thanks for all the Modesto High School memories, we loved your singing over the many years. We'll never forget you Buck. God Bless.................Erika and family our prayers are with you.
Brenda Elder
September 12, 2008
"What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal"
You will be missed.
Love, your niece Brenda
Buck and Thomas -- July, 2008
Thomas Duncan
September 11, 2008
It was eighteen years ago that I walked into the vocal studio of Buck Townsend. Little did I know where that visit would take the two of us.
It was only for a few years that we actually worked together side by side in Modesto, but even though I moved along into Idaho, he has always been very much by my side. The lessons he taught us will stick for a lifetime, I'm sure, and they are not just lessons about music. Sure, he was a stickler for vocal perfection, but it was what he taught us about life that might have been the most important thing he did, and those lessons will remain with us forever.
One of my favourite stories that Buck related was about when he called Henry Holt to tell him that he would conduct an opera for the very first time, and the production would be La Boheme. Even though Holt told him to cancel, he stuck it out, and made a success of it -- his stubbornness led to success, again and again. He gave me the very score he conducted from on that occasion, and aside from being a great source of information and a treasured memento, but a significant reminder of the no-holds-barred attitude that made Buck who he was. He taught us perseverance during hell weeks, graciousness when divas went beserk, kindness whenever someone was hurting, and how "the show must go on" when Terry Yee passed and he sang highlights from Man of La Mancha with a strong voice and a broken heart.
In so very many ways, "El Bucko" will always remain by my side, as long as the lessons remain and his memory stays as bright as it always has. All of us learned so much from him, he cannot but live on as we remember his guidance. He was just the kind of person who would leave an indelible impression everywhere he went.
I'll miss everything about him, and I'm sure glad I got to see him one last time. He was my boss, but he became my hero.
To Erika and Lisa, I offer my deepest sympathy.
With much love for the man,
Thomas C. Duncan, Sr.
http://nogoodguitarpicker.com
Elizabeth W Essa
September 11, 2008
A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer; it sings because it has a song. That was Buck who always belived in the special abilities he had within him and who shared them with his community.
Thank you - Mark and I have always admired your abilities and the legacy you've left for all.
Mishell Pendleton
September 11, 2008
The Central Valley and World will miss you Uncle Buck. Take pride in knowing that you have accomplished more than most men, you made a difference and enriched the lives of others. I will always remember "The Penny Drive". It was one of the few times that I felt that I was truly contributing to my community. Thank you for teaching me something that is so simple, yet so rewarding. Our sincere condolences to your family, friends, and so many students of the Arts. Mishell & Dave Pendleton
Glen Stark
September 11, 2008
From your friend and buddy, who you said, "Who was the least, but the most". We all know you have always been "The Most"
Monica DeVine
September 11, 2008
The Angels in Heaven have a new and glorious voice to join them.
Thank you Buck for helping me find mine.
Robert Miller
September 11, 2008
Buck was the man, the mentor, and the list is endless. I shall miss him and the opportunities he gave me and the multitudes who labored under his able leadership. His broad smile will live on in the memories of the folks fortunate to have had him as a friend.
Judy Schmidt
September 11, 2008
Brother Buck,
Early childhood memories was of a brother who left home at a young age but returned regularly to take his sister out for a hot fudge sundae or a movie. I watched his career go forward through occasional visits and letters from Erika but the move back to Modesto in 1982 brought me rewards I could little imagine at the time. I joined the Camerata chorus in 1986 with the production of “Opera Line” (Opera, What’s That?) at Graceada Park. I was hooked and found that being on stage was the best seat in the house. What’s more, now I could see my brother’s face on which I could see his love of those he directed and love of the art of opera. His dream of creating opera in Modesto which so many of us thought impossible has been made possible.
Part of our sadness today is that we all know how very hard he has worked to make this dream happen. We just wish he could have had more time to enjoy all that life now had to offer back - time with his wife, Erika, time with his daughter and grandson Lucian and new granddaughter Xanthe, and time to see the glorious productions that TOP would now be offering in the wonderful Gallo Center for the Arts. He wouldn’t want us to be sad, though. He was happy to know his legacy will be carried forward through his influence on so many people, young and old. He would want us to think of him with that big smile on his face which he had to the end and he would be giving us a big “thumbs up.”
God be with you, brother. You finally get to be that one lone tenor in the Heavenly Choir who, after hearing the choir start to sing, St. Peter, the director, stops them and says, “A little less from the tenor section, please.”
I shall miss your smile and constant love and support. I will miss looking at your face as you direct the chorus and production. I shall miss you being a "high maintenance" brother. I have been so blessed with having you be part of my life.
Cindy Blanch (Niece)
September 11, 2008
Dear Aunt Erika, Cousin Lisa and the rest.
You are in my thoughts. I will always remember Uncle Buck singing, smiling, and being very passionate about his family and the opera company. Love you guys. Hugs and Kisses.
John L. Gorman III
September 11, 2008
Buck taught me to sing, to perform, and to love the hard work it takes to put on a show. I was 47 years old, and never even thought of singing on a stage. What an inspiration! I'm sure he has the angels lining up to audition for him! Love to all, John
Josh Powell
September 11, 2008
"I want to reach as many people as possible with the message of music, of wonderful opera."
- Luciano Pavarotti
And so, Buck's work being done, and done so heroically well, the heavenly choir gains yet another pioneering Tenor.
Sarah Parrish
September 11, 2008
Dear Townsend Family,
I am one of Erika's former students from the dance academy and was sorry to hear of Mr. Townsend's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I know how much he was loved by his family. He was a huge influence in our community.
Sarah E. Parrish (Ballet Student)
Francesca Heyward
September 11, 2008
Dear Buck,
I don't think I ever told you how much I appreciate everything you have ever done for me. You are the reason I am who I am and the reason for where I am in my life. I would not be the opera loving girl I am today without your love and attention. It was an honor to know you and be your student.Thank you for everything Buck. We all love you and will miss you until we meet again.
Kelly Erdmann
September 11, 2008
Buck was such a strong spirit, who was obviously loved by many but mostly by his wife Erika, and daughter Lisa, and her children. We are glad he was able to meet his grandchildren, who he obviously found great delight in. He will be missed. The community lost a great man.
Julianne Benisch
September 11, 2008
Dear Buck,
You are a bright light in Modesto. You have ever enhanced our lives with Opera. Thank you for the wonderful productions you have given us. You will be missed.
Lisa Thode-Setzer
September 11, 2008
Erika and Lisa,
Our hearts are heavy with sorrow after hearing of Bucks passing. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to call us. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lisa and Steve Setzer
Val Farrow
September 11, 2008
Buck will certainly be missed! He has left an incredible legacy. We will forever be grateful for his Cameratini program - it has been a huge part of our daughter Tori's life and more recently our son Connor's. We hope they will now be able to honor his memory with their love for performing - all from the seeds he planted. The Farrow Family - Tori, Connor, Carson, Deke & Val
Tori Farrow
September 11, 2008
I hope God will take care of him in heaven. I will always appreciate the Cameratini program - I love performing.
Nancy & Ed Howard
September 11, 2008
We are grateful that your family returned to Modesto. Buck's dream will be important to keep alive. Our loving thoughts are with you and Lisa now as you move forward. You have the support of friends and a community that wants to see the determination Buck had to pass the love of music along for future generations.
Melissa Struxness
September 11, 2008
Buck it was an honor and a joy to work for you. You are still my favorite boss as hopefully I am still your favorite secretary. I love you Buck rest in peace.
Marcus Christian
September 11, 2008
Maestro Townsend it has been an honor to have been your student and more importantly your friend. Enjoy the shores of Valhalla henceforth, you are Helden!
Gene Turner
September 10, 2008
From a friend and fellow Modesto High classmate I wish you forever peace.
Jim Shirley
September 10, 2008
Buck,
Thank You!! It was a pleasure to work with. I will never forget the opportunity you gave me to be a pirate. I still owe you a bowl of chili and a cold beer to wash it down.
God Bless
Rick Jones
September 10, 2008
A rascal if ever there was one. Gave me the kind of work, experience, and opened doors for me when I needed them most.
Thank Buck... thanks.
rick
Emily Garcia
September 10, 2008
I am greatful to have worked with Buck Townsend and Townsend Opera Players. Buck helped build my confidence in theater. My time spent with Buck will be an experience I will treasure forever.
Dolores (Hansen) White
September 10, 2008
With deepest sympathy
Delia & Jeff Mayland
September 10, 2008
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Chuck Sheaffer
September 10, 2008
Buck had a dream - a dream that many said was "the impossible dream". He had a dream to start an opera company and he made his dream come true - what an accomplishment and what a gift to Modesto. I am previleged to have had the opportunity to work with Buck. My knowledge of opera is mostly as a result of performing with him in the orchestra for over 20 years. He will always be with me in spirit.
Hope Lionudakis
September 10, 2008
My sister-in-law Judy Schmidt is Bucks little sister and is grieving as everyone else is, but the pain is gone, and heaven will be a nicer sounding place. God Bless you Buck and all the joy you brought to the world
Chris Convery
September 10, 2008
Before Buck Townsend introduced himself to me at the fair one night, I never would have thought I would have enjoyed operas so much. I got to play for him over his last few years and thank him for the opportunities to grow and learn. Some of the craziest times I've had musically were with TOP. Thanks Buck! You were great!
Lori Bryden
September 10, 2008
My "Uncle Buck" was someone I fondly looked up to.I always wished we could have spent more quality time. I loved him dearly and will miss him. He was truly a gifted talent and inspiration to many.
One of my fondest memories of Uncle Buck was a family gathering at my Dad's. Uncle Buck had his guitar and was singing songs and playing his guitar. My Dad was joining in and Buck had a hard time keeping a straight face because Dad can't carry a tune. Musical talent was not evenly dispersed in our family. It was such a great time to have his undivided attention and his personal performance.
He could brighten a room with his infectious laugh. He will live on in our hearts and memories.
Love Your Niece,
Lori
Randi Linee
September 10, 2008
You are my mentor. There is nothing else to say. You will live forever in our hearts - you made me who I am today. As it has been said, "Because I knew you, I have been changed for good."
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