Alembic Guitars Club
Connecting => Community => Remembering Paul => Topic started by: bob on January 24, 2009, 05:34:11 PM
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I have some very sad news to share with you. Our friend Brother Paul (palembic) has been diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. He is declining rapidly, and there is no cure.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is the general form of a protein folding malfunction that affects the brain, with about one case per million people each year. Often thought of as Mad Cow Disease, the human condition resulting from ingestion of contaminated meat is actually a subset known as variant CJD, and is responsible for only 5-10% of the cases (and usually among younger people). It turns out that over 85% of CJD occurs spontaneously, with no known cause.
So while we don't know for certain at this time, it appears there is no one to blame - and we needn't speculate here on Paul's eating habits, European agricultural policies, and so forth. It just is.
This has all happened quite rapidly, which I suppose is about the best we can make of it.
Sometime in mid or late December, Paul phoned one night and said that while rehearsing for a gig, he found he was unable to hear the beat. With encouragement from his band mates, he managed to get through the gig anyway, largely by resting his foot on a drum stand so he could at least feel it. As you can imagine, he was quite unhappy about this, but it didn't seem particularly alarming. He also started having some occasional problems with balance around the same time, fairly minor at first, which also suggested some sort of ear problem.
But his hearing tested fine, and his balance problems worsened to the point where he was told to stop driving, and take some time off work. He had a brain scan in the first week of January, which appeared normal - no tumor, for instance - so they admitted him to the hospital for additional tests. Several of these came back negative, and there was a bright moment on the 17th - he phoned again, excited about the fact that for the first time he had been able to snap his fingers along with a recording of his Blues Stuff band.
Even so, he almost sounded sedated, and a friend who had visited in person the day before said he looked even worse than he sounded, having lost a lot of weight and barely able to move around without assistance. They finally made the diagnosis on the 21st.
We can't know how much longer it will be - probably a few weeks, and not more than a few months. At some point he will slip into a coma, and it won't be much longer after that. For now, he still knows people and takes comfort from having friends and family in the room. As many of you know, he loves to talk, and between gestures, examples, and switching between several languages (wherever he finds the words), he manages. But blurring and double vision prevent him from reading, and he is no longer able to handle a conversation by phone.
He knows. And in fact, he seems to be accepting it quite a bit better than the rest of us.
Some of you here in the SF Bay Area had a chance to meet Paul last March at a local Alembic gathering. It was his first trip to the states, and he had always dreamed of being able to visit SF in particular. His eldest daughter is currently in a one year post-graduate law program at Stanford, so he came over again in October and we spent a great two weeks together. He was supposed to visit again for a week in May, to attend graduation, but it seems I may have to fill in for him.
Personally, I'm glad he had a chance to make it over here, and even more thankful that I had the privilege of sharing a few weeks of life with him. On his first visit, he proposed that we buy a case of good wine, which I would save so that we could share a bottle on each of his subsequent visits. We were having such a great time with other things that we didn't quite get to that, and by the next visit neither of us really felt like we could indulge the expense. But we were certainly looking forward to many years of good times together.
My computer, where I'm writing this, happens to be in Paul's room, and I expect that's how I will think of it for quite some time. Coming from someone who has pretty much lived alone for a decade, and at times been characterized as a bit of a recluse, the fact that I looked forward to his visits - and always wished he could stay a few more days! - says a lot about just what a wonderfully warm, kind, and joyous human being he is.
After I got to know him well (by phone) several years ago, I used to joke with him that his TBO (The Bad One) signature really stood for The Best One. He made me promise not to share that with the group, but it is how I will choose to remember him.
Peace, my friend. I shall miss you, and from time to time, over a glass of wine I know you'd enjoy.
-Bob
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/65124/60454.jpg)
(Paul, with Bonnie)
(Message edited by bob on January 24, 2009)
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Bob, thank you for writing and sharing the news about our friend Paul.
Bob called me earlier today, and I have been thinking about our wonderful friend these past few hours. Paul has been a member of our club since the beginning, and his effusive personality was instrumental in bringing us together as a community, and in giving our community its unique character. His humor shown through in his posts, and it often brought a smile to me and to his friends here in our little global village.
Two years ago Paul asked me to install Skype on my computer, and we have been sharing telephone conversations and instant messaging conversations ever since. He?s the only person I use Skype with; it?s the hot line between Belgium and Asheville. He?s also sent me his CDs, and I sent mine to him. He?s just a warm and caring human being who loved music and loved sharing.
And this being a club of musicians, I would add that he?s a mighty fine bass player too.
He was so excited about his trip to San Francisco and to the Alembic club gathering, and I was so happy that he had been able to make the trip.
I am thankful for the gift of Paul?s presence in my life. Thank you Paul.
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I'm very sorry to hear about this. Although CJD is very rare, I have (unfortunately) had a few patients with this disease. It robs one of their humanity and dignity in a horrific manner... something that no one deserves. It sounds like Paul is someone who would not want our pity, but would want to be remembered as the man he was before this disease took hold of his life.
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((((((((((Brother Paul))))))))))
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Man, that's heartbreaking news...
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The picture with Bonnie shows a man with a passion for fun and music.
Deepest sympathies to his friends and family.
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I will miss Paul's happy posts here. I wish we had met.
Mike
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I have no words for the ache in my heart, As Dave said, Paul pretty much created our world community here.
Janine and I will have you in our prayers, Thank you Paul, for touching us all.
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go in peace brother
I shed tears for you
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I too only knew Paul from his posts on this forum.
A great guy who will be sorely missed.
Mark
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Absolutely tragic news!!
My heart goes out to him and his family.
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Very sad. Sorry to not have known him but I can see he was well loved member of this extended family we have here. Condolences to Paul, his family and his many pals.
Jimmy J
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F**K.
I'm in tears.
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Love, prayers and tears.
Art
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Devastating news... I had emailed him in early December as we hadn't heard from him here in a while. In his reply he told me he was readjusting after a major life change and seemed very upbeat saying he was planning on making a return to our forum in the near future, but to keep it to myself in the interim.
Nobody ever said life is fair, but this just plain old sucks.
My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his loved ones.
He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched.
-JP
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That's terrible news. I didn't know Paul, and I rarely post on here, so I don't think I even exchanged posts with him, but I do remember I always found his frequent posts on this forum informative, witty and insightful. He came across as a lovely, decent chap, a genuine soul. It says a lot about him that I, and I'm sure many others here who equally never met him, will miss his presence here. My condolences to all.
K.
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As with many of you here,I don't know Paul but I'm deeply saddened by this news.There will be a huge TBO shaped hole in the club.
Paul,thank you for your posts here,and for sharing your knowledge.I know that sending positive thoughts and saying prayers are not going to change things but I don't know what else to do.
My thoughts are with you,your family and friends.
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This is sad news. I'll miss the empty glass being banged on the table. I'm sorry to say this time there won't be another.
Keith
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Sad, very sad news... :-(
(Message edited by fc_spoiler on January 25, 2009)
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Sad news indeed. He would call me once in a while. He could always tell when I needed a friend.
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This is shocking. It would be sad anywhere, but it brought true tears to my eyes for a man I've never met except through these boards. Here's hoping that every good thing that can still happen for Paul comes to pass.
-bob
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Sad doesn't begin to describe my emotions as I've read this post. This is absolutely heartbreaking.
Lots of love to a man with lots of love, both inside and out.
Kimberly
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I just logged on after a few day's absence as I am traveling on the east coast. What devastating news. I always found Paul,tbo's posts to be among the most refreshing, informative, and humourous found on this site. I even took my forum name from his lead. After knowing him for some time in cyberspace, it was indeed a great pleasure to meet him in person and hang out for a bit at the Northern California Alembic gathering last year. I found him to be even more delightful and original in person. I know there will be a lot of good thoughts, prayers and wishes heading over to Belgium from Alembicland. If the Beatles were correct is stating that in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make, I suspect Paul will be taking along enough love for himself and still enough to share with others. Happy trails, my friend.
Bill, tgo (the guitar one)
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Shocking and tragic. To say TBO will be missed seems the understatement of the year.
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So sad. Paul really made this place the warm, slightly exotic, sometimes twistedly funny place that drew me in when I began hanging out with you folks. Paul and I had a few things going offline a few years back, including a search on US Ebay for an Epi Casady he was GASsing for (never did find one for a decent price). I followed his daughter's graduation and beginning work as a lawyer (I'm one, too). Later we lost track - keeping contact only once a year or less. What a huge soul. You could get that just reading his posts, much less communicating directly. My heart goes out - to Paul and his family and to everybody else who'll miss him.
Bill
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Heartbreaking news. His warm spirit and sense of humor were always evident in all of his conversations and relationships here.
I'm not a drinker, but tonight I'll raise my cup to Paul and give the table a sound thumping with my empty glass when I'm finished.
*raises glass* 'To Paul....'
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This makes me very, very sad...such a vital and mischieveous spirit. I'll raise one to ya down at the blues jam tonight.
From one Paul to another, fair winds and following seas, good sir. We'll all be along in due course.
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Wow, I can't imagine this place without him. I hope the path he is on isn't harder than it has to be. Is there any way to get messages to him or his family? I hope he and they all know how much love there is for him here and, I would imagine, everywhere!
As someone who has gone through health issues, I know how fragile a gift our existence is. We are indeed blessed to have you here, Paul. Here's to you!
Edwin
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Likewise gentlemen, I too have missed his posts and upon finding out why my heart has all but caved in for a man I do not know and will miss. My deepest condolences for him and his family.
Cheers and God bless you Paul, I'm looking forward to meeting you in the hereafter.
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No words. We'll miss you Paul.
John
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That is very sad news.
After he bought one of my Rob Allen's a few years ago, we bantered back & forth, waxing eloquent on the virtues of Belgian bier - especially the oldest variant, lambic (Paul's family has some history as lambic brewers - & the term lambic is a variant of alembic how strangely appropriate a connection).
I have the Jefferson Campervan in storage in Amsterdam & had intended to drop in on Paul to share a lambic this July when I do a solo trip (sans wife & dog). I passed close to his home twice in the last year, and am now very sad that I didn't visit earlier, thinking there would always be a better time...
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When the bottles are a-clanging, and there's one more after all have stopped, we'll know who has joined in for a cold one. Godspeed Paul!
T
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I am very sad to hear this news. Paul's spirit and sense of humor is so much part of the fabric of this little community. Peace & Love.
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Is there any way to get messages to him or his family? I hope he and they all know how much love there is for him here and, I would imagine, everywhere!
In another day or two, allowing a little time for more of our friends to check in here, I plan to send the link for this thread to either the daughter I know, or a close mutual friend who is visiting Paul frequently. I'm not quite sure how, but I am confident they will do their best to convey our thoughts and compassion, to Paul, and his family.
For anyone who is especially close to Paul and suddenly finds themself without a way to get in touch, send me an email (preferably including your phone number). I don't particularly want to act as a filter, but as you all clearly appreciate, this is pretty overwhelming as it is, and in any case I certainly can't publish contact information here.
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Although that most of us only know each other through this site only we are connected in a very special way.
And now we are going to lose one of our connections and it saddens me deeply.
My utmost sympathies to Pauls family.
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What a sad, sad fate. This is such disheartening news. Paul will be in my thoughts.
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Im so sad to hear about Pauls illness - my thoughts and prayers go out to him and his loved ones!
Have faith Paul - death is the greatest lie we are taught in the western world.
John.
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Sad and terrible news....my heart goes out to Paul and his family.
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paul is the Main man around here!..............i was wondering why he's been soo quiet!
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Very sad news. I'll be praying for him and his family. The nylon stocking jokes will always be missed.
Mike
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This is really sad news, my prayers go out to Paul and his entire family.
OO
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Bob, thanks for sharing this. I'm speechless. Paul and I have had several phone conversations and emails. He's a great guy and a good friend. I'll be banging my bottle in your name Brother!
Sam
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Bob,
I am devestated, to say the least, to hear this about such an icon to this club. Our prayers go out to Paul and his family. I'm glad I had the chance to meet Paul at the gathering last March, the humor and joy he brings to his postings is but a small part of what he is like in person.
Ken
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Paul's posts about the stockings are what I remember most about this place after I had just joined.
It's just not right....
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Dear Bass-friends, I just heard the very sad news about Paulus(that is the name I gave him 20 years ago)from Adriaan Simons....... My heart is with Paul, his family & friends. He is my forever bass-soulmate. Edwin Van Huik.
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Wow, what a bummer. He's put a smile to my face many times with the image of a crazy Belgian with a stocking over his head sneaking in somewhere to steal the latest COTM.
What a funny guy, from his profile:
Age: NO!!!!!!
Sex (M/F): YES!!!!!!
He'll be missed.
-Jack
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Paul is the nicest guy I've never met. His posts have always been kind and very thoughtful. Even though I am not the most prolific poster on the site I have always felt an affinity for Paul. It was his Bonnie after all that convinced me to order my first Alembic as a 5-string. One time when I had a death in the family and I considered selling my bass he wrote me a very nice note in which he referred to me as brother. As a matter of fact he always did refer to everyone at the site as brother. So to my relative from Belgium, my prayers will always be with you. -Jorge
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I don't know Paul, but I've read some of his posts and seen some of his pictures. He seems like a great guy with a great personality. I'm sorry to hear about this.
Mike
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My heart is with you Paul
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Paul,
We're all pulling for you and your family. Our prayers are with you.
How could you not love a guy who coined the oft used stockings idea?
Bradley
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I was wondering why we had not heard his wonderful wit.
My prayers are with him
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Love from France! dear Paul
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/65124/60506.jpg)
To Paul,with love.
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Sad, sad news.
You all were always caring and Paul was one of the first to answer and to give suport when I first joined in. Love you all and I like to think on you as friends...
My best thoughts goes with you, Paul. We didn't had much time together and that broke my heart (but, you know, we'll ever meet again because friendship never ends!).
Love from Brazil.
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Brother Paul,
I am so sorry that this is happening to you and my heart goes out to you and yours.
The only thing I can do in your honor is live life right now and show love to those with whom I interact.
Rich
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My deepest, sincerest condolences to Paul, his family and his friends. Life is never fair and never discriminates. But it seems that the best people are always the first to leave us.
I've never had the privilege of meeting you in person Paul, but I very much enjoyed our exchanges here on the Alembic site. You always signed your name as Brother Paul and Called me Brother Rami. It was an honour.
You will be dearly missed.
Your brother,
Rami
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As I am new on this forum, I haven't had the chance to know Paul, but all the comments I read just let me guess how a nice and wonderful person he was. I send my condolences to his family and friends, and my best thoughts of support...
Christophe from Saint-Etienne, France
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Terrible News.
I missed his postings and was wondering why.
He brought in so much fun to the club.
My thoughts are with him.
Harald from Bamberg, Germany
(Message edited by Harald Rost on January 27, 2009)
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Brother Paul, you play the computer keyboard like it's an Alembic! Who's going to take your place?!?
Peace be with you,
Paul
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I've just got back to the forum after a couple of days and can only say I'm devastated by this news. Paul has always been a shining light on this forum and as he's in Europe, one of the few members I've been able to hold almost real time conversations with. I've missed his contributions for some time and now I understand why he's been quiet. Reading some of Paul's posts has brought both smiles and tears. He will be sadly missed and my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.
graeme
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There are times in our lives when someone special enters and really shines a light on our souls. No matter where we are in that part of our lives, or where we are in the world we stop and listen.... and learn! Paul is AND will always be on of those special persons.
It's been a while since I last posted here and for that I'm terribly sorry. It's been just as long since Paul and I have traded posts or talked on the phone. That is something that I will have to live with sadly!
Mica called and left me the message last night and after reading the thread and seeing the picture of Paul that Bob posted, at first I cried and then I laughed. That picture embodies what Paul was all about!!!
I, just as many of us have a million favorite Paul stories but I remember when my wife Rachel was pregnant with my youngest daughter, Paul would call from time to time to ask if I was playing my upright bass for her. When I would explain to Paul that she's not born yet, he would explain right back that even though she wasn't born, she would still be able to hear me and it would help through the pregnancy and after she was born. Well she's 5 now and every time I pick up upright, she stops and listens! He knew!!!!
We take so many things for granted in our lives. I knew at some point we would meet and he would finally get a chance to meet my family and the little girl that he helped to appreciate my bad arco playing!!! Now that time is too late. I guess this will be one of Paul's final lessons to me. I can hear his voice now..... saying don't wait hug the ones you love.......
He used to refer to me as Brother Dino as well and then later as Brother Paul the Fake One. Then that morphed into the artist formerly known as Dino It used to confuse the heck outta anyone that was new to the board. But in Paul's graciousness, he would always explain the whole Brother and Good One, Bad One and Fake One!!!! LOL!!!!!
Brother Paul, you are a gift to everyone that you've touched your life! I know you will check in here from time to time. You are loved here and will be missed.
God Speed
-Dino
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Sorry haven't been around for a few weeks...
I'm speechless, My thoughts go out to Paul & his family.
Steve
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What horrible news, I am so sorry. He is a great guy. One of those folks you don't actually know but consider a friend.
Dave
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To me, Paul has laways been the embodiment of what a community should be. We should all be so fortunate to be so gifted and loving, to be missed so greatly and completely.
Paul, you are in my prayers.
Mike
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I had 35 college sophomores in class this morning. One of the topics was the power of social networking as a strategy for building a community of loyal customers. For the past several years, I have used the Alembic discussion board as the best ever example of this.
As fate would have it, I brought up http://alembic.com/club (http://alembic.com/club) this morning.
I noticed the new topic, For Paul, immediately. Grasping the import and obviously stunned, I stammered out something about how familiar many of the names were, how this was one of them, what a shock this was.
On the way out after class, one of the students said, Sorry about your friend.
A friend I never met and never knew beyond his posting here, but neverthless a friend.
Geo
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My deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to Paul and his family.
I had the pleasure of meeting Paul at the Northern California Alembic gathering last March. I knew something of him from reading some of his many posts on this forum. I could not play bass due to an injury to my right hand, but I came for the fellowship, and of course brought my Orion. For some reason, Paul noticed it and asked me if he could pick it up and play it, to which I readily agreed. He and I chatted a little bit, as well. I could sense right away he was a unique, talented, and warm-hearted person.
Paul, it was my pleasure to meet you. Godspeed--
Eric
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Best wishes from Seattle to Paul and his family.
Bones
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Very, very sad. I wouldn't say I knew Paul, but I certainly knew his posts. My best wishes for peace and comfort to him and his family.
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Paul's humor will be greatly missed. The responses to this post show just how caring a community this is and how much Paul's input is respected. Thoughts and prayers to Paul and his family.
Pete
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It's amazing how life can be so great at times, and so brutally unfair at others. As sadness befalls us, let us remember Brother Paul for the wonderful musician that he is, and for the great friendship (now matter where you were in the world) that he showed to us all in the Club.
Hoisting a pint in your honour, kind sir; best wishes to you and your family.
Godspeed my friend,
Chris
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This is shocking and tragic news... Actually, I cannot believe it. Paul's always been so full of life and humour...
I don't really know what is there to add...
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I had the pleasure of speaking to Paul a few times a couple of years back when I was touring in Europe with Apache Indian. He was planning to come to the Afro Latin Music Festival in Belgium but something happened on the day and we never managed to meet up. He seemed a very lively cheerful person. How sad that things have happened this way.
Jazzyvee
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How very sad.
Go with God.
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Just noticed the new category. Nothing new to add, but I share all of the sentiments and wanted his family to know the volume of our feelings.
To be known as a friend I never met and to be loved by people who never knew you. Paul, you have inspired me by giving me a different way to measure my life--a different goal.
Paul, his family and the Club will be in my prayers.
dw
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Peace to you and yours brother!
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life is just so fkn unfair sometimes
there will not be another one like you my alembic brother.
You were one of those people i used to read constantly when i first came to this site looking for knowledge.
may your transition to the other side be peaceful and pain free.
peace and love from Ct.
jeff flaxman
i will play black peter in your honor tonight at rehearsal.
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I pray for Paul and his family during this sad time.
-----Dale
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Well, this pretty much sucks. Sh*t. We'll miss you, Brother Paul.
Peter
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Paul, you will be missed. Good luck on the other side.
Valentino
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I haven't checked the Club in a while, so this came as quite a shock to me. I may no longer own an Alembic, but the ties made during the time I spent here are greater than that which can be bound by a physical instrument.
Like John said, I have no words. May your remaining time be peaceful, Paul, and godspeed on the other side.
(Message edited by 82Daion on January 29, 2009)
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(((((PAUL)))))
Just a couple of days ago I was thinking about when I first joined the club ~ how some of those frequent forumites from back then aren't around here as often (palembic was one that crossed my mind). Thinking about the reasons why.... Life, family, and straight up playing are excellent excuses. Some of us are here only when our FTC thread is active and that's fine. Others have sold off their Alembics... But most sad is when one's health is the culprit.... How many times does a club member post pics of his/her new Alembic, only to be greeted w/ several play it in good health(s) from the likes of Paul & the rest of us?!?!?
My heart goes out to Paul & everyone else here.... I have only had personal exchanges with a handful of you. Even without personal correspondence, Paul is definitely one of the binding elements of this community. Any of us who have dug into the archives here have been touched by his knowledge, opinion, and sense of humor...
Paul, I'll be thinking of you when I play. May those Ebony stringers sustain you safely home.
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My thoughts and prayers are with Paul and his family at this horrible time. He will be sorely missed.
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Paul, I will play tonight thinking about you and your family. Love&Peace!
Get our good vibes from Brazil!
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God's will be done.
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This is really a bad bad starting 2009.
Although we live very close together I only met him once, back in the days when I got my first Spyder he came over to me from Belgium to see my Spyder basses.
Oliver (spyderman)
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I only knew Paul through this forum, but this news gives the feeling similar to being punched right in the stomach. It is so important to enjoy every day.
-D
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Just a quick update. About two nights ago, I sent a link, along with a few notes to help make sense of some of things they would read here, to Paul's daughter and also a close friend of his. By the next morning, both had spent some time here, and sent words of thanks.
So I thought you'd like to know that family and friends truly appreciate the huge outpouring of support and compassion, and are finding it comforting. In fact, I was asked this morning if it would be okay (of course!) to forward the link and notes to a few other close personal friends of Paul. They are touched, though probably not surprised, by how big a role he played in shaping this community, and appreciate the chance to gain some insight into this part of his life. And like us, they seem to enjoy reading some of his crazy stories.
Also, based on what I heard at the time, I'm fairly confident Paul will understand that Bonnie is the Featured Custom. While Paul didn't covet the honor as much as some might, we all know how much Bonnie means to him, and Mica put together a beautiful and fitting tribute.
We may see a post from the family shortly, and perhaps from a friend or two, but in the meantime I thought you should know that they hear us, and it makes a difference.
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Thank you Bob.
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Thanks Bob.
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Thank you Bob.
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I sent Joost an email as well, but don't know if his address is still current..
John
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There's something in my eye . . . Goddammit all.
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Thank you Bob!!!!!
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This is awful news. Paul was a vital part of this forum even before it moved here to this 'official' space: when it was just a humble yahoo group. My heart goes out to his family, and the outpouring of grief and condolences here is testament to the character of the man.
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Bob thanks for the update.
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Thank you very much, Bob.
I'm in tears... although I never met Paul, he was one of my Alembic anchor men in Europe, when I joined this fantastic board back in 2005, the other being Oliver. His fun and knowledge helped and enjoyed me a lot, and made me feel being a member of a huge, global, but close family.
Thank you for being with us, Brother Paul, my heart goes out to you and your beloved.
Christian
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Bob,
Thanks for the update. I hope that Paul and his family knowing that they are in our thoughts and prayers help them through this difficult time.
Ken
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I haven't spent much time on here, especially lately, but coming back to the forum and finding this terrible news is incredibly disheartening. Finding all of this genuine concern is, however, quite wonderful. I'm sorry to say I don't know Paul, but I send my dearest sympathies to him and his family. Wow, it's just...I can't believe stuff like this happens sometimes. My heart goes out to Paul. -Jeramaya
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this is very very very sad news....
my heart is with paul and his family.
and Bob thanks for the update...
willem
(Message edited by pye on February 01, 2009)
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Yesterday I received a long mail from Gorik, one of Paul's brothers, and he wanted me to pass along his thanks to the club:
Thank you and all of them, the Alembic people all over the world, to share our sadness. Thank you very-very-very much. I never knew a bass guitar could have such a strong family. It really stunned me and I wept a lot reading those letters.
I can also share with you these thoughts, from one of Paul's close friends:
Thank you very much Bob. Paul has the - rare - capacity to sense people and to get the best out of them and by reading his posts and the reactions I really recognize him. Although I had never read them before. ?Of course he talked about the Alembic Club and I know it was very important to him. And I knew he was Paul The Bad One aso. It?s comforting to see how many people he has touched and to read all his crazy ideas...
There are two more things, for now, that I'm sure you would all like to know.
Paul was told about the COTM feature. He was very tired and not in one of his talking moments at the time, but it seems to have prompted a small smile, and a bit more life in his eyes. While we can't be certain, that sounds to me like too much to be coincidence, so I believe it was in time to make a difference.
Also, though it will be quite a while before many such details are worked out, I have been assured that Bonnie will not be sold to a stranger - or any of his other instruments, for that matter. It seems Paul has not been specific about his wishes, but his family has long understood how important they are to him. They may stay in the family, or end up with friends, but one way or another I'm sure we will eventually be hearing something further from Bonnie.
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Thanks, Bob. I'm sure everyone here appreciates that we are able to make even the smallest positive impact on Paul's remaining time, and that we can further enrich his memory with those closest to him. It's also great to hear that the importance of music in Paul's life is being honored by those he will leave behind.
-bob
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Paul is a great man! My heart is heavy to hear this news.
Rory
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It is beautiful to see all of the people here raise up and hold in high esteem, the great man that is Paul.
My prayers, condolences and heart-felt deepest sympathy go out to his family and those he leaves behind.
Paul, wherever you are off to next I bid you a fond farewell.
Peace & Love
slawie
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I've have only just stumbled across this thread, and I can't tell you how shocked I am. Paul's sense of humour was a shining light on this forum from when I first joined. He had me in tears of laughter many, many times, and I always missed him when he didn't post, as of late; I had wondered many times recently why he didn't post so often anymore.
Unfortunately the tears I am crying as I type this are not of laughter anymore. Brother Paul, I will miss your words so much; take care and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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Wow.I don't really know what to say.This saddens me terribly to hear such news.I'm sitting in a truck stop in Hammond LA and just popped in to check on things and.....man.My heart goes out to Paul and his family.I have the last Alembic catalog incased in plastic and I'm quite sure Paul wrote the various discriptions on the basses available within(please correct me if I'm wrong on this).When I get home,I will pull out the catalog and read it again from cover to cover.And Bonnie was alway's one of my favorite Alembic basses to look at.Just a fantastic looking bass.As I go to pick up my load in Baton Rouge tomorrow and drive it to Laredo,there will be much sadness in my heart for Paul.You will truly be missed.
S.Dave
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I often dont get a chance to post anymore on the thread due to my schedule but I have talked to Paul on ocassion. He always had the ability to make us smile and shed light on anything we had to say on this board.
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Thanks Bob, knowing that made me feel better, too...
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The COTM is so, so fitting. Thank you Mica. I don't know of anyone here who so vividly expressed his appreciation for his instrument. Just another of the things that make Paul exceptional. Thanks, Bob, for sharing all of our thoughts with Paul's family and for helping us feel a bit more connected.
Bill
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Peace brother Paul, Peace.
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May we all play with a little more Passion - a little more Joy.
May we all LIVE with a little more Passion - a little more Joy.
For Paul(TBO).
God Bless.
C-Ya......wayne
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Whew, just shocking! A reminder of how we all need to stick together, and let each other know we care. I never say goodbye, I say Take care man.
Paul, take care man. Hold the Alembic tight, and go with the spirit.
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It's over. Around 9 pm Tuesday, local time, Paul simply stopped breathing.
His wife Chris, brother Gorik, and a few other relatives were with him. Incredibly, Paul's father had passed away in the morning, though at least that was not nearly as sudden or unexpected.
I seem to have run out of words, but there will never be a shortage of wonderful memories.
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Until the very end, I was hoping for a miracle. But miracles don't happen...
Goodbye Brother Paul. We will all miss you...
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Thanks for the news Bob, as heartbreaking as it is. Like Jarek, I was also hoping for a miracle but at least Paul's suffering has ended. My heartfelt condolences go out to his friends and family. We never met but paul was like a best mate whenever he was on this forum and i now feel a huge void where he once was. A sad loss to us all.
Graeme
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My condolences to the family and friends of Paul.
Great man, great humor, great bassplayer.
Joeri
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Goodbye Paul, I'm sad even I don't know you.
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My deepest condolences to all who feel pain at the loss of our friend Paul. I was very sad to hear the news of Paul's illness. Sad for him, sad for his family, and sad for all of us here. With the news that he has passed, I hope we can now be at peace as Paul is.
Miracles do happen every day. Paul's passing is very sad and just so senseless, but we have to do all we can to maintain hope and a positive outlook.
-bob
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I never knew Paul, but by the posts here the world has lost one of the best ones at an unfortunate time and in an unfortunate way.
Paul, you've left a legacy in friendships and community that is far too rare today. Thank you for lifting us all.
My condolences to his family and friends.
John
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My friend Paulus is in Bass Heaven.
Edwin Van Huik.
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Good bye brother Paul. My deepest sympathy to Paul's family.
Mark
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I'm crying... thank you, Paul, for the peaceful and joyful spririt that you spread around here.
We'll meet someday, if I can make it into Bass Heaven also.
My deepest prayers and condolences to the family and friends.
Christian
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Our very humanity interconnects all of us. For me, Paul?s life has been a gift of illumination, shining a light on our common humanity, on who we are as a people, one family, all brothers and sisters sharing this earth together. Thank you Paul for being a part of my life.
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Bob thank you from the bottom of my heart for keeping us updated. It had to be a hard task for you but much appreciated. Like everyone else here I'll keep my memories of Paul. His personality was as infectious as it was unique. And he was a helluva bass player. He sent my wife and I a couple of CDs about a year ago. I'll treasure them even more now.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Sam
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My prayers go out to Pauls family in their, and our, time of sadness.
I'll miss Pauls humor and constant positive outlook to everything. I had been reading back over some of his post and he never had a negative word for anyone or any topic. What an awesome man.
God Bless you Paul,
OO
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Rest in Peace, Brother. We all enjoyed your insights and sense of humor, and you will surely be missed. Definitely The Best One.....
Heartfelt Condolences to your Family.
Mike.....
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Rest in peace Paul, I just don't have words for this.
My condolences to the family
Manfred
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My coping mechanism was to read at least one of his best posts each day. I agree that we all had a chance to meet a special human being.
Will pick up the bass this evening for no reason other than to connect with Paul. I have a feeling he'll be hearing from a lot of us.
dw
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Rest in Peace Brother Paul! Your music, memory and wonderful life will live on forever in my heart!
My condolences to the Lindeman family.
Bob... thank you so much for doing a such a wonderful (and tough) job of keeping us informed. I can only imagine how hard this must have been for you.
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Sincere condolences to the Lindemans and Paul's extended family. Paul will remain in the hearts of many here at this wonderful club. I mourn the loss of a special soul known to me only through his writings. Bob, thank you for all you have communicated through this difficult time. Sincerely, Art
(Message edited by artswork99 on February 04, 2009)
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Indeed, too sad for words....
Condolences to all whose lives he touched.
-JP
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My condolences go out to his family and friends. I will miss his upbeat humor and posts.
Keith
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As hydrargyrum said,there's something in my eye.It says much of Paul's personality,his humour and his spirit that a guy in England who never even met him is sat here barely able to see the monitor right now.I know I won't be the only one moved to tears by this.
To Paul's family and loved ones I send my deepest condolences.I don't know what else to say.
Simon x
(Message edited by bassfingers on February 04, 2009)
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Paul's suffering is over. From that I can take some comfort. I will keep him in my heart.
Be well, everyone.
John
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Paul left a radiating footprint during his all too brief time on this planet. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. I will long miss his tales of Bonnie, Broomstick, banging bottles, and stockings. May the four winds blow you safely home, my brother.
Bill, tgo
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Paul, now you've done it... You've got this Metalhead in tears :-(
Also my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Seen the impact Paul had on this community, I can't even start to imagine how hard this loss must be for you.
Paul will never be forgottten and will always be part of this community.
Take care,
Flip
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My condolences to Paul's family and friends. Our prayers will be with you.
Even though we may be far away geographically, Paul's Alembic family still feels the pain of losing someone close.
God bless,
Loch
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Rest in Peace, Brother Paul
Mike
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Paul, may you rest in peace. To your family, my sincere condolences.
Rich
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Paul was and is a touchstone of peace and understanding. I too will miss him. My condolences to his family and those who knew him intimately.
Mike
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My condolences to Paul's family and friends. Rest in peace, Bass Brother!
Pete
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The company Paul worked at has put up a dedication here. (http://www.faro-com.be target=_blank)
In addition to Flemish, there are choices near the top right for French and English. There is also a bio in the Team section.
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Beautiful words.
The biggest tribute we can give him is to regularly turn back the pages in the cookbook of Paul's life and use it to deliver better results and to live life positively.
Amen.
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God bless you, Paul. I pray that'll we'll meet on the other side.
Mike
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I never knew him, has been said alot - but I think somehow we all know him. It is poetic that his father passed just before him.
His impact here at a simple old website is dramatic! He truely is the Legacy that which we call Palembic - his name shall be spoken with reverence and glasses shall be raised with joy in rememberance.
May he hold his father's hand and begin his new journey with the knowledge of the difference he made here.
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Thanks for keeping us updated Bob and Edwin.
I think I hear a bottle banging already...
T
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If there is any justice in the universe, Paul is now where the beer bottles are never empty and none of the headstocks are cones. Goodbye, Brother Paul.
Peter
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It must be part of some twisted cosmic plan that the best and brightest leave us so soon. To feel a sense of loss for someone whom you knew only through responses to posts on an online forum speaks to how truly special a person Paul really was. My inner thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.
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Rest in peace, Paul. And, if the place you are in, there are bass guitars with filters, may you grow a third wing to accomodate their use.
Reid
(Message edited by rraymond on February 04, 2009)
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We are richer having known you - Peace, Brother Paul.
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Paulus happy in his own garden. April 28th 2007. (http://club.alembic.com/Images/65124/60867.jpg)
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I was just wondering why Pauls Bonnie became the featured bass of the month. I am now shocked to know the reason why. My only consolation is that I am sure heaven's best blues band has a new bassist now. I will never forget his spirit.
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Sorry ,i speak french!
Toute mes condol?an?e a la famille,
nous somme tres triste
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Very sad news indeed. My condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed. Godspeed, Paul!
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I am very sorry for the loss of Paul, and my thoughts are with his family.
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To Pauls family and friends;
Although it is impossible to see beyond your pain,
May we look back to good memories to comfort and help you today
May your heart and soul find peace and happiness.
May the blessings of God be upon you,
May peace be always within your soul,
May its essence illuminate your heart,
Now and forever more
Hold tight the good
slawie
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I am am saddened for Paul's family and for all of us who'll miss him. I wish he were here to spin a comment or a joke. I'm not sure what he'd say (Who ever was?), but I feel fortunate to remember his presence so clearly.
Bill
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So terribly, terribly sad. The awfulness of the randomness of the universe....
I read many, many of his posts since i signed up here and he was always such a beacon of fun, joy, and the love of music and all things Alembic. My deepest sympathy to his family and loved ones.
On the death of Irving Thalberg, Groucho Marx was quoted as saying, Why is it that the good die young and the schmucks live to be 100?
Godspeed, Brother Palembic. Say hi to Jaco, the Ox, and James on the other side.
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My heartfelt sorrow and sincere thoughts towards Pauls family at this devastating time of loss.
Can there be anything worse for a partner to lose a soulmate or for a child to lose a parent who has guided them through every stage of life?
We are all simply leaves that flourish in spring then fade with age and the onset of fall - the winds of time carry us away and we become a memory in time.
Love never dies.
John.
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I could not have expressed my thoughts better than White Cloud!
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To all you here : a Warm Musical Friendship from the Belgium to all Paul's Alembic Friends. Never seen such enormous sympathize .... take care you all and : CARPE DIEM !!!!
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here we are like two Brothers ....(http://club.alembic.com/Images/65124/60888.jpg)
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I noticed the name in the shop window, so I couldn't resist checking the location. Isn't it wonderfully weird that this should be a picture from Epinal ...
From Wikipedia: The expression image d'?pinal has become proverbial in French and refers to an emphatically traditionalist and na?ve depiction of something, showing only its good aspects.
Paul leaves us with only good things to remember.
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Hi David; thank you for sharing the picture of you with Paul. It's very nice to meet you. And it's a really nice picture of the two of you.
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I've only just come across this thread, while I did not have personal contact with Paul his wit, charm and personal beauty were evident in his (always enjoyable and interesting) posts. I will sadly miss his spirit here and my deepest feelings are with his family.
Jake
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I did not know Paul, but he has touched so many. Rest in Peace, and blessings to the family.
Marc
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I did not know Paul, but he has touched so many. Rest in Peace, and blessings to the family.
Marc
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I have a gig tonight where I shall make my debut as vocalist,singing the Ramones version of 'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong.We're dedicating the gig to Paul and that song especially.
Paul,if you can hear it,and if my rookie singing sucks,just bang that bottle real hard brother!.
(Message edited by bassfingers on February 06, 2009)
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David, thanks for that great picture!
John
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There isn't much I can say that hasn't already been expressed. I feel a mixture of terrible sadness at Paul's passing mixed with gratitude that his suffering is over. There is a strange echo in the fact that my Alembic leaves me tomorrow, so closely following the passing of a never met but fondly remembered friend.
As I said before, I will miss you Brother Paul. Of all the people on all the forums I've been on, you were undoubtedly the most fun. Take care wherever you are, and I hope to share a beer with you some peaceful day.
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Rest In Peace.
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Rest In Peace, Brother Paul.
Your postings will be missed.
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For people who live in Belgium: the funeral service will be with the family alone.
But
there will be a special service on Saturday 14 feb. at 18.00h in Herent,near Leuven. Place:'Den ouden tijd'. As I have heard, several musicians will be playing... to honor Paul. It will be a warm goodbye.
I'll keep you informed.
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Thanks for the information Peter. At 12:00 EST I'll raise a glass and join everyone there in my thoughts with a salute to Paul.
Sam
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I too will raise a glass in honor of Paul.
John
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To me, Paul was the Alembic Super User and had one hell of a collection of basses. I bet he knew how to ply them too!
I too will miss his upbest and informative posts on this bulletin board.
RIP Palembic
Bob Stark
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What a real shame.
Paul TBO was one of the first people I remember when I joined this forum. He gave me the name Paul The AAAAARGH one.
Life is short!
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For various reasons I've not been checking in on the club for some time and, like others, I recognised, and was a bit surprised to see, Bonnie as the featured custom. I explored a bit further and was saddened to read of the horrible illness and death of the wonderful character that was Paul.
I don't want to repeat what others have said before me, but oh, how his fun and warmth will be missed. Few of us actually knew him personally, but all of us feel we have lost a personal friend.
Sleep well, my friend.
Rob
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I have posted some new pictures sent to me from Yoeri Fransens in the Pictures of Paul section. I asked Yoeri if I could share his note with you, and he agreed. Following is his note.
____________________
Hello Dave,
My name is Yoeri Fransens and I am a guitarplayer who had the honour to be in a band with Paul for several year. I hadn?t been in contact with Paul for a while so the news of his passing earlier this week came as a total shock. I still can?t believe that he has left this planet for that great gig in the sky.
The 1st time I met Paul, when we just formed the band Drive, he struck me as an extremely gentle and kind person. Although he was a lot older then me, I immediately found an enormous friendship with him. We 'clicked', not just musically but also on a personal level. He had some things in his personality that I find of the most importance. I never have known him to be mad at anyone, he always tried (and succeeded) to see the good in anybody and any situation. His often philosophical ramblings would be spot on.
I always regarded Paul as a special person, one of the few people who are able to make their way thru live on their own terms, not hung up on what others would think about them. A kind of person that is very rare in this day and age but Paul was definitely one of them. So in some way, it is rather fitting that Paul would leave us due to an illness that only strikes 1 in a million people, a rare disease for that rare type of person.
I also want to thank you and the Alembic-forum for the kind words that have been said and for the 'in memoriam' that is ongoing. I saw that some wonderfull pictures have been posted. I uploaded some pictures I have stored from when we were playing with Drive. Feel free to post any of them on the forum.
Kind regards,
Yoeri Fransens
Hever, Belgium
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Thanks,Dave for posting this.
Yoeri,along with Paul's family,our thoughts are with you also.
Simon.
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I met Paul last year at the Bay Area Alembic gathering and remember him being one of the first folks to bubble right up to my wife and I to introduce himself when we arrived. What a great guy.. he was so psyched to be at his first US Alembic gathering (as we were!). It was great to spend some time chatting with him and talking shop.
I just found this thread this evening and am really bummed to see how fast this all has all happened.
Despite this really depressing news, it is great to see how a great person can have such a vast impact on folks that they may or may not have met. I salute!
(Message edited by IceCreamMan on February 08, 2009)
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Been off the forum as I was busy...very sad news and all my condolences to Paul and his family.
RIP Mr Bassman Paul TBO
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Very tragic news indeed. Our loss is Heavens gain, there must be a hell of a rhythm section up there. peace and love to the family.
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Goodbye Paul, we'll miss you. But one day we'll meet again.
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Fare thee well, fare the well, I love you more than words can tell...
Listen to the river sing sweet songs, to rock my soul...
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My condolences.
Pablo
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Having not been the forum in awhile I just saw this thread..how sad.
I always enjoyed Pauls humor and points of view.
Now that first fret F he use to chase around will just fall in place.
Condolences to the family and all who knew him.
Gary
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Same as Gary, I haven't been to the forum since a while until now and am in shock over this devastating news. I never met Paul in person but he was like family member to forum, like so many. Paul, you will always be!
Hartmut
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Also same as Gary and Harmut. It's been a while since I had been by the forum. I saw that Bonnie was cotm which struck me as odd but Bonnie has always been special so I thought maybe Alembic was revisiting some of the best of the best; now I know.
I never had the chance to meet or speak with Paul but over the years that I've spent reading these forums I always stopped to read any post by Paul that was in a thread I was reading. I knew whenever I saw a response from Paul that it would always be some combination of being insightful helpful and funny. I think almost all of the Alembic threads that I have bookmarked for reference are bookmarked because of Paul's contribution.
You will be missed more than you know.
- Jim
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Maybe I can be a bad one someday, like Paul1
RIP, words cannot express.....
Edwin
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Last saturday I touched Paulus' soul by putting my hand on his white urn. I did that in the name of every Alembic-player and all music-friends. Together with a few hundred people in Belgium we had a Very Warm Last Paulus Party.
We will meet again Paulus! Bass regards,
Edwin Van Huik.
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Thanks for sharing that and keeping us all in mind Edwin. Friday night was my first gig since Paul's passing and he was in my thoughts the whole time.
Graeme
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Thank you Edwin!
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Ditto.
Bill, tgo
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From Katrien, Paul's eldest daughter:
Dear fellow brothers of Paul,
?
On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to thank you all for your warm words on the Alembic forum. Thanks to Bob, we got the link to the ?For Paul? file quite fast and forwarded it to family and friends. And in all silence, we read your posts to find some comfort during these difficult times.
?
To thank you, we included you all in the list of people announcing his death (see attachment).
?
My father has been cremated last Friday and his ashes will be spread out on several places, the places he asked to go to when he heard he only had a couple of weeks to live: Cheilly-les-Maranges in France, Wissant in France, Port de la Selva in Spain, San Francisco Bay, The North Sea and our back yard. Last Saturday we held a farewell party with around 400 family members and friends. There was beer, wine, good food and live music. The perfect night to remember him.
?
Your words on the Alembic forum will remain for all of us a place in cyberspace where we can go to remember our father, partner, brother, friend forever? whenever we need him or just want to be close to him.
?
Thank you all,
?
Katrien Lindemans
Hopefully, the announcement is attached. Even those of you who don't read Flemish should have no trouble spotting The Alembic Forum in the friends section on the right side.
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Thank you, Katrien, for your beautiful note. Your words are, for me, deeply moving. Thank you.
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a last hello to you all from Paul TBO .....
He will be soon close to his Alembic Friends forever !
David
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Thank you Katrien,for taking the time and trouble to post this.
The Alembic Forum is an amazing thing to be part of.A gathering of friends and enthusiasts from around the world brought here,initially,by a common interest.
Paul was one of the members here that made the forum breathe.We all love to talk basses and guitars but so often it was Paul who would take us on hilarious de-tours touching on all areas of life.Sometimes profound,sometimes crazy,but always fun.His memory and his spirit will never leave the forum,and I know we'll continue to refer to him with a great deal of affection,such was his popularity.
Best Wishes,
Simon.
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Thank you also David.
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Thank you David.
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Thank you for sharing such deep sentiment for us that did not know Paul personally to further be in touch with the spirit he was.
Sincerely,
Art
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I've got that thing-in-my-eye thing that we've all been getting lately. Don't know whether it's happy or sad. Think it's both.
Bless all.
dw
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Strange??
I seem to have it too!?
G
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I remember coming to this board, when I was a teenager, and just reading all these posts, and looking at all the nice pictures,..I never signed up and chatted but I was always dreaming of an alembic, but back then didnt have the money.. about a year ago I got my first Alembic, a truely beautiful instrument.. I love it, but for the moment I might let her go.. anyway.. i remember coming to this board, and reading all these posts, and also Pauls post.. I learned a lot from this man, despite age difference, and the fact that we never met, or even chatted on this forum.. still I always felt sort of a connection to this club and also Paul.. you have also touched my life, even if you never knew this. God bless.
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This is truly sad news. I haven't posted here in a few months so I didn't see this until now. You know, I got an e-mail from Paul back in December and it didn't make any sense. Now I know why.
I haven't spoken with him recently, but it wasn't long ago when we talked on the phone a few times every month and he would always ask me how senior management was doing. I still remember how we started the whole Paul TGO, Paul TBO and Paul TFO joke.
I will keep him in my prayers. And I will do what he would want me to do, have a beer and pour some for everyone.
Paul TGO
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I'm a new member but I've been browsing here for awhile...i wish I'd joined earlier just to verbally spar with Paul; we could have had great fun, as his sense of humour was great enough to cross continents,time zones,languages...perhaps NASA should have put him on a deep-space probe to look for intelligent humour...I never even got a chance to e-mail spar with him, but so wish I had...I hope someone else becomes forum jester, I'm way too new for the job...Tony.
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It took a while to come here and post again, but I have to admit that Danno's announcement of his new ten string plan had me missing Paul. There's no way a bass description like that would have gone by without a call to the stockings.
-bob
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I have been MIA from this board for a long time. It was sad to return to such terrible news. Although I never met Paul, I remember having conversations with him. My thought and prayers go out to all of his family and friends. Bill Payne
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I too have been off of this site for a while and am devistated by this news. Paul and I conversed a lot through email although not in the past 6 months. He bought an Alembic strap from me a while back. I'll really miss his witty posts. My most sincere condolances to his family and friends.
Stoney Johnstone
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Hi Paul. One of our fellow members is selling his Alembic, but says he hopes to own another some day. And I thought that this is where Paul will jump in and say there will always be another. I miss you. Thank you again for touching my life.
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Hey Dave, there will always be another !!!!
not the same coming from me is it
I think about Paul EVERYDAY!!!
and it still gets to me
Sir David
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That mantra was something Paul said to me in a thread where I was bemoaning the sale of my 20th Anniversary bass.I still live in hope that there will be another.If I ever manage to find (or pay for) another,it'll be named Paul in his honour.
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There is alot to be said about Paul's impact here.
I knew very little of him, but the obvious ripples of his being are still spreading out.... so much so that 'we' are working on a Chicago Alembic Gathering and I feel that I must attend because, well, because it's the right thing to do.
And the opportunity to meet people, good hearted people is one that should never be passed.
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I have always subscribed to Paul's mantra of There will always be another. Unfortunately, Paul himself was the exception that proves the rule. There will never be another Paul, tbo. He was truly one of a kind.
Bill, tgo
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This thread still makes me cry.
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Thank you/dank je wel Katrien.
Love/Liefs,
Edwin Van Huik.
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Accidental double post.
(Message edited by hydrargyrum on March 18, 2009)
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You're not alone John. I try to avoid this thread usually. I only knew Paul from this forum, but I can clearly see that he left a mark of kindness upon this group. I hope someday something equally kind can be said for myself.
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Some create great things, some create great music and some just make themselves and the world about them burn brighter; Paul seems to have been one of the latter, and that is a greatness we all can be thankful for and hope to achieve...
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Your not alone John...
Love to you Paul from this crazy planet.
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Monday was Paul's birthday, and Katrien (his eldest daughter) and I got together to celebrate. I think I'll let her tell you about it, in her own words and photos.
Dear all,
June 15 was Paul's birthday. I celebrated it together with Bob by throwing the small amount of ashes that I took with me to Stanford in the San Francisco Bay.
Well, it was not exactly throwing... the part of the Bay behind Bob's house is quite peculiar:
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66407.jpg)
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66408.jpg)
We had to find a way to get the ashes in the bay. Therefore, Bob and I first did a little prospection to check the tide and the amount of mud we had to conquer. It was a warm California afternoon.... that clearly inspired us to find the perfect way to do this:
A little boat!!!!!!
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66409.jpg)
So Katrien rolled up her pants and got out there in the mud:
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66410.jpg)
We put the little boat in a side ?puddle? of the bay and the little sail immediately caught the wind... For a minute or five the boat just made funny circles on the water trying to get around the sticks to find its way to the bay... It was an amusing but also peaceful thing to watch...
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66411.jpg)
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66412.jpg)
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66413.jpg)
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66414.jpg)
And then suddenly, too soon and completely unexpected, the boat just sunk... it took less than a second:
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66415.jpg)
... when the tide goes away, it will take a part of the ashes with it, to the rest of the bay and maybe even into the Pacific...
It was good, and warm and not sad at all. Bob and I went inside to finish the risotto and clean the shrimps... we had good wine and talked about Paul, and life...
Katrien
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/65124/66416.jpg)
???????????
The little boat was half of a walnut shell, a toothpick, and post-it note. We hadn't planned this, it was just improvised, but Paul and his brothers were always building little boats as children, so we thought he would enjoy it.
In addition to this final trip on the Bay, he has quite an itinerary ahead. Little bits (as Katrien puts it) will also end up in:
- Port de la Selva, Spain (one of his favorite places)
- Cheilly-les-Maranges, France (if I remember well, some friends have a vineyard here that the family often visits)
- Nord (North) Sea, somewhere off Belgium (via another sailing friend)
The big part will eventually go to Meerdael Wood in Oud-Heverlee near Leuven, Belgium. This forest is quite close to the family home, and Katrien described a beautiful path, lined with tall trees on either side, where the family took many walks together, especially around family celebrations. (It seems there is both a Forest and a Wood, so this (http://www.tripwolf.com/en/galleries/media/ext/3095519/574767/Belgium/Leuven/Meerdaal-Forest?2 target=_blank) may not be it, but it's probably pretty close.)
One other note: they have decided that Bonnie, and the rest of Paul's musical gear, will remain in the family home, indefinitely; his son Joost has been playing them quite regularly.
As Katrien said, it was not sad at all. The two of us had a truly wonderful time, celebrating Paul's life and his birthday, and it seemed right to share that with you as best we could.
-Bob
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Thank you.
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Bob,
It's peculiar how an event can make you feel something and yet not be able to express yourself beyond thank you to yourself and Katrien for sharing this with us.
Mike
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Thank you for sharing this reflection with us, Katrien and Bob.
(Message edited by dadabass2001 on June 18, 2009)
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Touching ! Thanks for sharing this.
I never had the chance to meet nor chat with Paul ( I'm kind of new here ) but reading his old posts he really sounded a great guy.
Peace.
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Thank you so much for sharing that with us... Those seemed to be really magical moments and by reading the story and looking at the pictures, I could almost feel like being there...
Thank you once again.
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Thanks for allowing us to share in this celebration!
Loch
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Thank you Bob and Katrien! The story and pictures were beautiful! Thank you for including us! And ... thank you Paul!! You have filled my heart in bringing us together in this way.
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Wonderful. Thank you. The photos are perfect.
John
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Thank you for shring these moments with all of us. Very touching.
Art
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Beautiful
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Been away for a few days, so just saw this.
Very uplifting, the way all (including Paul's family) are sharing their feelings--and the way Paul reached out to us. Hope I can even begin to pay back the universe for the good karma I'm getting.
dw
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Been away for a while, and just saw this. I'm feeling shocked and sad, and Paul will surely be missed around here, let alone by his family and friends. Very touched about the tribute, quite rightly so, offered by Alembic and his fellow Alembicians. Better late than never I just wanted to add my personal condolances to this very moving thread. R.I.P. Paul.
Wilfred
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the bass community is an amazing thing. alembics couple incredible beauty in 3 senses - music - visual perfection (aesthetically) & sonic perfection (thank you Ron!).. but there is a 4th dimension - people - this post made me cry with sadness, reverence... and joy. May Paul rest in peace. May we find peace in God. What a great community alembicians are. sincerely, Mark
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woow... I agree... sadly this day, I understand the community of alembician people... never forget the 5th element (or dimension): THE LOVE
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This is the best proof on how you can miss someone you've never met. This all goes beyond touching., and I know Paul is smiling whenever Bonnie sounds, as I'm sure he has always done.
Thank to the entire Alembic community, for reminding us, in every way, the HUGE difference between a machine-driven, serial world, and a world where people do care, in every way. I feel proud of being part of this entire concept that being an Alembician involves!.
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To all Alembiccers : Commemoriation to Our Friend Paul Lindemans who nearly past away some five years ago ...
I still miss him !
I work out a Homage or Tribute to him the next days and will appreiciate if I can share with this Group.
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Amai, is it five years already?
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David, please share your tribute with the group. I believe that many here think of Paul often. Warm regards, Art
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Every day art.
Graeme
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Hard to believe it's been five years. Paul left a really good mark on this place.
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Indeed he did.
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Bang a glass.
I find it hard to believe its been five years
Wherever your spirit is Paul a part of it is always here
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Cheers to you Paul!!! Wherever you are..
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Cheers from Venezuela as well!! I will, now that it is lunchtime, toast in Paul?s memory with a Tovar beer, brewed in a small town called the Tovar Colony, which is a historic establishment of a small group of villagers of German descent who arrived to these Caribbean lands almost two centuries ago, and established in a small, cold mountain place (which, curiously, has Choroni, one of the most beautiful Caribbean beaches at the other side of the mountain), and stuck with most of the customs they brought with them from their past. Nowadays, the Colonia Tovar is a beautiful touristic place, and some of the customs still remains, such as crafts, pastry making and artisan beer brewing. I?m sure he would like it. Cheers to Paul, wherever he is!
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Here's to you, Paul! I still hear your comments bouncing around every thread here, with that wonderful smile!
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My heart is warmed; Paul continues to spread joy and warm feelings. Thank you Paul.
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Happy Birthday Paul!
Thank you for continuing to touch my heart.
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Dear Family and Friends of Paul,
February the 3th ?.. yet 6 years ago our friend Paul Lindemans left our World in exchange of his new world of Music, Cooking, everlasting Friendship and hard Laugh !
That?s what I?m wishing to him ?.
After so many years, I still need to confess I?m missing him and I?m remembering these moments where we shared the joy of life.
He was my Buddy ?? Cheers Paul !!!!
David
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Thank you David.
Thinking of you this morning Paul.
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I can't believe it's been 6 years. It seems like only yesterday we were banging virtual bottles together. thinking of you always Paul.
Graeme
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Thank you, David!
Salutes from Germany as well!
It feels so surreal thinking of him as 'not being around anymore'. While I never met him personally in real life, his presence here within the forum had made him very alive to me during all the time. Somehow, he still feels alive to me...
Here's lighting a candle for you, Paul!
Cheers to you all!
Hartmut
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There's still times when somebody says something in a post and I'm waiting to see a response about stockings on heads and banging bottles. I-V-I-V .....
Keith
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I am also thinking of you, brother Paul. Here's another Kraut, ge-hently banging a glass of Auchentoshan on the table in memory of you. My loving thoughts go out to his family, relatives and friends as well. I never met you in person, but you were my guide and my friend in this family here. Thank you !
cheers, Christian
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Banging a glass tonight for you brother Paul.
And also again for those left behind.
If memories breed life then you shall be alive in our hearts forever.
slawie
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Cheers!
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I got a new pair of stockings just for the occasion!
Cheers brother Paul.
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Happy birthday Paul; you continue to brighten our lives, and for that we are thankful.
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Thanks for the reminder Dave. Paul is constantly in my thoughts.
Graeme
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Paul often said there will always be another one.
However, Paul himself was the exception that proved the rule. Happy B-day Paul, your spirit is still strong on these pages.
Bill, tgo
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Cheers for Paul!
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I'll drink to that.
Although that phrase often sounds trite, I offer it with the love and respect that we all will always have for Paul. Happy Birthday, man!
dw
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Now where'd I put those stockings?
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Bill, very nicely put.
Thanks,
Jack
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I send my sincere respect for Paul (TBO) .
Wolf
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Some days become punctuated even long after the event. I can't help but think fondly of our Paul every February 3.
Somehow it's comforting to know I not the only one who misses him.
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It really doesn't seem all that long ago we would see Paul writing about wearing stockings on heads and banging glasses on tables.
Keith
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I have very fond memories of being a Forum member back when Paul was with us. Seems like another lifetime. When I joined, I was new to Alembic and fatherhood as well. I miss his sense of humor and outlook on life. While he may have had his stockings always at the ready...he never got his knickers in a twist.
Here's to you brother Paul...
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Wow, has it really been 7 years? It sure doesn't seem that long since he came to the NorCal gathering. I still quote him often, There will always be another. Of course, Paul himself was the exception that proved the rule. And it was easy for Paul to keep his knickers untwisted as he had that third hand to help!
I'll bang a bottle on the table tonight in your honor.
Bill, tgo
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Here's to Paul. Cheers!
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Brother Paul your spirit is strong among us.
slawie
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7 years and it hardly seems like yesterday. I'll be banging a beer on the table tonight.
Graeme
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Hard to believe it's been 7 years...
A pair of stockings, and a bottle to bang on the table for The Bad One...if only we could all be as good as Paul...
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Thank you Paul for what you have given to this community and to each of us.
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Happy birthday Paul. Thinking of you this morning, and of our club here on its new platform. When the moderators were working on getting us all moved in here, we stopped for a moment and sat here in your new room. I hope you like the new place. Thank you again for touching my heart.
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Happy Birthday Sir .
Wolf
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I banged a bottle on the table for Paul tonight.
Bill, tgo
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I lost a friend yesterday morning and missed that it was Paul's birthday. I could have benefited from his perfect humor to help me through the day. I hope his is a peaceful rest.
John
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John; sorry to hear of your friend's passing. My love to you.
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Thank you, David.
John
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Thinking of you on this day, Paul, and of our community here, within which your presence still vibrates. Thank you again for touching our lives.
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I never 'knew' Paul, but I have very much enjoyed his posts here in the past couple years I've been hanging around you guys. The picture at the top of this thread with "Bonnie" is one of my favorites on the whole site... that's the face of a guy who really loves that instrument.
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Happy memories first. Then a little sadness, just because.
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^^^ that, exactly.
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Happy Birthday, Paul. Thank you for continuing to touch my heart. Will play a song for you today.
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Happy birthday, Paul. I'll bang a bottle on the table in your honor. And I'm still keeping an eye out for the ever elusive third hand.
Bill, tgo
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Bring back, oh bring back ...
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Reflecting on our community this morning while sipping coffee by the window. Thank you again, Paul, for the gift of your presence here. We will play a few notes today in memory of you.
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I never got the chance to know Paul as he was having fun hanging here well before I started in 2013. I enjoy looking at the posts from him in the past. Peace & blessings to all who knew him and what joy he has brought to this wonderful community.
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Happy Birthday Paul; and thank you.
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Happy Birthday Paul, the bad one. You used to say "there will always be another". You were the exception that proved the rule. I'll bang a bottle on the table for you tonight.
Bill, the guitar one
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Thinking of Paul and others we've lost from our community, and thankful for what they gave to us.
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Happy birthday Paul.
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Happy B-day, brother Paul. Thinking about stocking masks, cone headstocks, and the ever elusive third hand.
Bill, tgo
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Happy Birthday Paul !
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wow, time flies... cheers, Paul!
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As Alembic turns a page, settling into their new shop, thinking of the changes we all go through and that our world goes through, and remembering Paul today, his contribution to our community, and the contributions we all make, here and in the greater world within which we move.
Thanks Paul; thinking of you always brings a smile to my face.
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It's hard to believe its been 10 years. I said it then and will repeat it now. This time there won't be another.
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Love you, Paul.
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"Love you, Paul."
Amen.
John
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Happy Birthday Paul!
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Happy Birthday to The Bad One. I'll bang a bottle on the table tonight.
Bill, tgo
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At times today I've been thinking of Paul; not about anything in particular, but as an invitation, an opening, into humanity, into who we are, beneath the surfaces, beyond the stories, just the essence of being. Thank you Paul, once again.
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David,
I think about him a lot. I used to love his conversation. He would call me and we would talk about nothing. Or food. Or alligators. It was great.
Michael
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By just reading this post, it shows how great Paul was. I came too late on this forum to meet him, but you all making it like he is still here.
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A couple days ago I ran across a formerly blank notebook that Paul sent me. I took a few minutes to read his heartfelt inscription, and to browse the note and sketches I added over the years. It's been full for a while, and every time I flip through the pages I'm grateful to have known our remarkable Paul.
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:)
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While I, too, am too new here to recall Paul as an individual, this post is what community is about, quite literally.