SKEETS MURRAY
He passed away on 9-11 leaving behind a great void that will be impossible to fill.
Skeets left this planet remembered as a good father, a wonderful grandfather, husband and, to me; a dear friend and musical companion.
So much of what I understand of music was learned from my countless sessions with him.
He began his own musical journey when he was about 13 strumming and picking on a used Epiphone guitar found at a local hock shop
After school he joined the US Army Paratroopers serving during and after the Korean War and was based in Germany.
While serving he developed a musical skill as a masterful Harmonica player. This earned him a spot on the musical team with Johnny Puleo’s Harmonica Rascals. The Harmonica Gang was featured on popular TV shows like Milton Berle, the Tonight Show and the Ed Sullivan show.
After he married my mom in 1959 he began a life as a musician, gigging every weekend with a variety of bands in order to support our family. And he loved to play guitar. Being a Guitarist became what he was most identified with.
Fast forward to several years ago, as he was battling cancer; I was fortunate enough to spend each week playing duets with him and learning how he navigated his way through solos and chord structures. It was a master class in guitar playing. During this time, he kicked cancer and was a happy, retired survivor.
On 9-11 of this year, his weakened heart stopped and he was no longer here.
It’s always difficult to comprehend the loss of a loved one.
In addition to being with my Mom, his constant companion was his little dog, Penne, who he spent every waking and sleeping moment with. Boy, did he love that dog.
He loved his retirement, enjoyed reading books, walking Penne around the block and saying hi to his neighbors. He would keep doggy treats in his pocket for any other pooch he met along the way.
I find myself reaching for the phone on a daily basis. I feel very off-balance not having him in my life.
I miss his laugh, his old jokes, the welcoming sound of his voice, advice and, of course, the sound of his guitar.
He was my father and my dear friend.
Skeets. 1935-2021