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BORN
1952
DIED
2018
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Roy Ettinger Obituary
Binghamton - Roy Murray Ettinger, Jr., 66, passed away on Friday, November 16th 2018 at his home in Port Dickinson. He was born October 4, 1952 to Roy and Marion Ettinger in Staten Island, NY.
Roy was a singer, songwriter and guitar player since the age of 12 (when his father had to accompany him into bars for gigs.) Later, he became a touring musician across the Northeast with several bands including his own, DICE. He was a BMI recording artist and songwriter and the owner and main instructor at the Roy Ettinger Guitar School in downtown Binghamton for over 40 years. At his studio, Roy was a teacher, mentor, friend and support system to many of his students.
Roy married his wife, Karen Nowalk, in 1981 and together they raised a wonderful family whom Roy supported with his talents and love for music.
Roy is survived by his wife, Karen Ettinger and their three children, Colleen Fox (and husband Chris Fox,) Kristen Rohloff (and husband Jason Rohloff,) Darrin Ettinger (and wife Caryn) his grandchildren, Hunter Fox, Ada and Finn Ettinger and Brandon Rohloff, his sister, Carol Keller (and husband Albert Keller,) nephews Michael and Daniel Keller and their families. He also leaves behind his extended family including his father-in-law Willard Nowalk, the Treadwells, Reagans, Giordanis, Mechlowitzs and the Nowalks, as well as many nieces, nephews, and countless close friends. Roy was predeceased by his parents and his mother-in-law, Dolores Nowalk.
For the many who were lucky enough to be a part of his life and truly know Roy, those who benefitted and learned from his wisdom, who laughed with him and shared his passion, he will be greatly missed. A piece of us all has been taken and we long for the day when we will see each other again. We know in our hearts that Roy Ettinger will live on in his music which will play without end for the rest of our lives. Roy always believed, "We have everything but time." He will be missed immeasurably.
Join us on Saturday, November 24, 2018 from 11:00am - 1:00pm at the Cyber Cafe West, 176 Main Street, Binghamton, New York, to share memories and come together to remember Roy and the legacy he has left. To forward condolences please visit www.demunn.com. Arrangements for the family are directed by the DeMunn Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Roy Ettinger
Sponsored by the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin.
Mike Fiato
January 5, 2022
Roy's enormous musical impact on me reverberates throughout my life to this day. I think of him often and fondly. My condolences to his family.
Bob Edwards
March 31, 2020
We were childhood friends many many years ago. My sister Eydie was best friends with Roy's sister Carol (Keller). Amazing how time goes by. Sending love and peace to Roy's family.
Gail & Kenny Gilchrist
December 8, 2018
Warmest condolences to Roy's family and friends. May you find peace in the days ahead.
Tom Williams
November 24, 2018
Karen and family, my sincerest condolences... As you know, as your neighbor during my childhood I used to crouch in the driveway and listen at your basement window while the band practiced - dreaming one day I'd be able to play like Roy. (Of course, my parents wouldn't let me take lessons because they were afraid it'd interfere with my schoolwork - which, of course, it would have!) The day after I moved out, I spoke to Roy and started lessons that week: and my path was forever changed. It launched my early career and developed an appreciation of music (and musicians) that grows every day since. Roy was more than just my teacher - he was my friend, life advisor and mentor. I try my best to impart his spirit and philosophy to my two daughters who are both musically gifted. His legacy endures in a small army of students he taught over decades, and will continue for generations more in their heirs.
Kelly Birtch
November 24, 2018
Roy enabled me to become who I wanted to be, a professional guitarist. After going through 3 local guitar teacher's in 1 week with the last one saying "if you really want to learn guitar go knock on Roy's door", I un-hesitantly did just that and my search was over. He was the real deal. I remember how excited I would get when he would get up out of his chair and walk over to his filing cabinet to pull out a new teaching (song) chart for me. His transcriptions are gold. I benefited tremendously from his talent and work ethic, and can't imagine having any other life path. My sincerest sympathies to you Karen, Darrin, and all of his family. Kelly Birtch
Fran Volosevich
November 23, 2018
Karen, so Very sorry for your loss! Fond Memories of Roy from our early Chenango Valley years! Fran Volosevich
Kevin Pike
November 23, 2018
So sorry for your loss. Many years ago, I took guitar lessons from Roy for about two years. Roy was an excellent teacher and helped me advance greatly in those two years. He knew how to get the best out of his students. He was also very personable. He will never be forgotten.
John Cronin
November 23, 2018
I was lucky enough to take lessons from Roy for several years and got to know him pretty well. He was a great teacher and a better person with an excellent sense of humor. Very sorry to hear of his passing. May God bless
Karol & Charlie Swantak
November 23, 2018
Our deepest condolences to the family .... Roy was a great person and musician. Lots of memories of the good old days with Karol and the Kopy Kats .... of course Roy on Guitar. I loved that white guitar he played. At the time it seemed larger than him ..... We did have fun. And practice sessions in the Ettinger house. He will be missed for sure.
Janet Lalli
November 23, 2018
Very sorry to hear about Roy. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Andrea Swetz
November 22, 2018
I took guitar lessons from Roy for about 8 years. He was an outstanding teachers and I learned so much from him. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Roger&Mary Shaller
November 22, 2018
So sorry to hear of Roy's passing.
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DeMunn Funeral Home and Cremation Service - Binghamton36 Conklin Avenue, Binghamton, NY 13903
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