Kevin McCormick

Vancouver BC based musician Ray Medway composed, produced and played all instruments in this tribute to his major influences - Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck and Kevin McCormick. Filmed by Ray and Nick Springate in Ray's studio August 19 2010

A Visit to Kev's Place

I recently paid a visit to Kev's "Rock" - it is a very cool spot, the above video is something I know Kev would be happy with.  Jimi at Woodstock in '69 and the Squad at the Port Arms in '82.

As an added treat Click Here to watch the whole Hendrix tune "Jam Back At The House" from Woodstock - one of Kev's all time favorite videos - enjoy, and do drop by his place near the corner of Robinson and Foster in Coquitlam - he would love to have you stop by for a visit!

 

A Seasonal Collection of Memories

We all know that Kevin was not a big Christmas fan (other than Turkey dinner with his family), so I created a seasonal video that he hopefully would approve of. Please enjoy these memories and have a safe, happy and Rockin' new year!

PS: To see and hear some of Kev's favorite kind on entertainment, check out Rick Fedyk, Ray Medway and Gino's latest tunes at www.GoSee.TV - they really know how to ROCK!!

Kevin's Sunday Service - Review

Pierced Hearts and True Love

Guitar Lessons Rock in Mission

"Many, many thanks to Guitar Master Tony "Del" Giglio for guitar instruction & mentor-ship"

The Kevin McCormick Memorial Fund became the Kevin McCormick Memorial Music Fund Society this year with the Mission Friendship Centre taking tax deductible donations directly, please contact Laura McKye at 604-826-1281.

Also the program itself evolved into group lessons of 6 so that we could help even more youth. 6 beautiful top of the line acoustic guitars, an electric guitar with amps, guitar stands, etc. each with a beautiful brass plate engraved "donated in loving memory of Kevin McCormick".

We are now well into our 2nd year of lessons. Our new guitar instructor this year is guitar master Tony "Dell" Giglio who is absolutely fantastic & the kids love him. They've been able to accomplish a lot with the guidance of Tony in a very short time.

 Please see the recent video of the guitar students playing for the audience. They are really having a lot of fun with Tony. Special Thank you to Tony "Dell" and a very special Thank you to John Alfano for taping the event, it was a great night.

Tim & Lindsay go to Fiji

One of the last promises my brother requested was that I deliver an inheritance to his son in Fiji. It was not the first time we spoke of it but it was the first time he requested I take it to him in person.

He said more than the money he had left for his son, he had hoped I would do my best to extend our family to Damien’s in Fiji and further strengthen the bond that had formed when Damien came to visit Kevin back in 2006.

2008 was a difficult year for my family with the loss of our Kev’. We have all struggled with this loss and the hole it has left. It seemed to me a perfect way to get some closure and wash away the terrible year this was.

Originally I had planned to take the trip alone and to try and experience as much of what Kevin saw in this place as I could but I realized that my Dad Lindsay might benefit from washing away the year by dipping his toes in that Ocean as well so I asked him to join me.

Turns out it was something he very much wanted to do so the two of us set out on our greatest adventure together. In doing so we encountered such kindness and generosity from the most gracious people I have ever come across.

Small wonder Kevin loved this place and these people and I am so glad he talked me into this trip. One more thing I’ll need to thank him for when I see him again. While there (32 years after Kevin was there), I was approached by 3 different people who had been staring at me and each eventually got the courage to come and ask if I was Kevin’s brother.

I was so amazed after all this time that they would see him in me and I was very touched by all the stories they shared. There were many moments where I could swear he was there with me and one particularly vivid dream I had while I was there where we sat on the beach and he told how glad he was that I got to know this place and this part of our family.

The trip was amazing on so many levels but none more important than being able to ensure that Damien is part of us now as are his entire family and village too. I can hardly wait to return with my sons and Lori and watch them as they experience this amazing place and get to know the rest of the family from Levuka.

The slide show does not do it justice but I hope you enjoy it just the same.

Tim

Kevin's Legacy is Rocking in Mission

The first round of guitars were recently delivered to the Mission Friendship Center.  There are now 6 acoustic guitars and a group lesson being held once per week. 

Kevin's Memorial Boulder

Kevin and I had wanted to have a memorial plaque on a rock in the wall at Robinson Cemetery (Coquitlam)together as husband and wife but when the time came and I went to arrange for it I saw the beautiful boulders they had in the section called Cedar Park near the office.

 

I saw my baby as a man bigger than life so I though a boulder was more appropriate, and I found the

perfect one.  I commissioned an artist to complete my design and I think he did a wonderful job.

If the sun's rays look familiar they are taken from the record cover of Jimi Hendrix's Axis bold as love album.

I think he and anyone who really knew him would appreciate the epitaph.  It is facing true West and that isbecause we always sat out on the deck holding hands facing West roasting in the sun, and if we were

reading our toes had to be intertwined.  I miss him.

 

If you wanted to visit the memorial boulder, here are the instructions to find it.

 

Robinson/Burquitlam Cemetery in Coquitlam

-to the left of the cemetery there is a wooded are called Cedar Park (where the office is)

-there is a small white walk thru gate and then the large drive thru gate, between these

there is a light standard and a break in the hedges

-walk thru the break in the hedges and turn your head left and you will see it. It is very close to

the road.

    

Cyndy

Cyndy's Kevin Storys

Friends,

 

I've held on till now to respond to any of the emails.  For the last 3.5 years I have been the happiest I have ever been, having found the love of my life, everyday we loved each other more than we did the day before and my best friend  but also paralyzed by fear, anxiety and grief of what might happen.  For my sanity I had to deny and only hope.  Kevin was always hopeful but a realist.  It was a very long rollercoaster ride that I was deathly afraid to get off of, because I knew what that would mean.

 

There was so much I wanted to say in my eulogy but so little time.  So many of you know the many different facets of Kevin, as a brother, as a musician, as a workmate, friend, etc.  I didn't know him as any of those things, he was my world, he was my baby.  Kevin's brother Tim told him something very prophetic, he said "Cancer saved your life".  At different times that meant different things to me but now it rings true to me when I think of the life we were able to have together despite his sickness.

 

Here are excerpts that I could not fit into my eulogy, they are random just like how my mind works now.  I am hopeful that by writing this it will be therapeutic for me but also insightful for you.

 

-a little known fact was that Kevin had a little spot on his chin that if touched would make him hiccup uncontrollably for hours.  Also, he could be tickled into submission in quite literally seconds.  He couldn't stand it.  I always told him he would never make it as a mobster or underworld spy under interrogation, all it would take would be for someone to point a finger in his vicinity and he'd have spilled the beans immediately.  There were a few times I used this to my advantage.

 

-even though Kevin loved to sleep in mornings, every weekday with out fail he got up with me at 6:00 am for me to go to work.  I would put the coffee on and by the time he was finished in the washroom the morning paper was was sitting waiting on his recliner and a fresh hot cup of coffee waiting on the table beside him.  He could not contain his enthusiasm, he was so appreciative of the smallest, most trivial of things.  I loved babying him.  I liked to watch the news while putting my makeup on and drinking my coffee so I would sit cross-legged on the floor next to his recliner and perch my mirror next to his feet on the footrest.  Kevin had a bad habit of rubbing and kind of snapping his toes together (as a result of numbness caused by chemo) often causing my mirror to fall or me bobbing my head up and down to keep up with the mirror.  This, while Kevin read excerpts from the paper to me, all we did was laugh, which often caused me to run late for work.  I never wanted to leave.

When running out the door after kissing him several times I would always say "I love you , see you after work" and every morning without fail he replied "Hurry!!"  Sometimes it would be 10:00 or so before I had realized I had not conducted a final makeup check and looked a bit like Alice Cooper.

 

-throughout the day Kevin would call me to tell me he had just thought of a song he would play for me when I got home, that he just talked to so and so or just that he loved me. If he got my voicemail he always left a long winded message professing his love for me. I loved that.  I think he really enjoyed leaving voicemail messages on people's phones.  Sometimes he sent me little love emails. I always got a call at 4:35, had I left work yet, if not, hurry up.

 

-One Valentines day I came home, he was so excited that he had cooked me dinner.  He had the lights turned down low and the candles lit. He had BBQd about 20 lbs of meat of every kind, chicken, lamb, beef, sausages, etc.  no vegetables or salad.  Just meat.   

 

-The manner in which Kevin and I got together, we felt was so ironic yet destined to be. For some reason Kevin always felt that it was his maternal grand-mother who was responsible for our union.   

 

-On Sunday mornings when he was feeling well enough I would make a big breakfast, eggs, fried ham or sausage and potato pancakes (his favorite).  Kevin would get so excited he'd call a bunch of his friends just to tell them that his beautiful, blonde, big- titted wife was in the kitchen cooking up a storm for him then hang up on them.

 

-Kevin was a man of metaphors, he used to drive me crazy with "I am a cactus", "I am a soaring eagle", "I am out in the ether".  One of our first dates I told him he was so full of bullshit why doesn't he just speak english, who is he fooling.  He sat there with his mouth wide open, speechless then started to laugh, so hard he had to hold his stomach.  He couldn't believe I had said that to him (that was just the beginning).  Some of them stuck though, like "something out of satan's own blast furnace!!" which is what he used when referring to my temper or "running around with your hair on fire" when I was upset.

 

-when the phone rang and it was a wrong number I used to tell him it was MC Hammer, he wanted his jacket back.  He liked that one.

 

- Thank you to John Alfano for supplying us with phytoplankton for months and for all your never ending support, encouragement and hope.  You gave us hope

and that was what we needed.

 

-Kevin had OCD, big time.  Amongst other things, he felt the need to mix different foods together that should not be mixed together.  Early on I learned if I wanted something untouched ie. a box of cereal, that I would have to duct tape it shut with a Do Not Touch sign on it.  Unfortunately for Kevin one morning I got up to make coffee and he had mixed my $12.95 (for 3/4 lb.) Seattles Best coffee with some 20 year old irish cream bulk food coffee he found in the back of the cupboard.  It was war, nobody fucked with my coffee.  Unfortunately Kevin was still in bed asleep when something hit him in the head.  I was standing over him, yelling.  He looked scared.   As Kevin would say "there was hair on the wall". It never happened again.

 

-Kevin and I were out one day and he decided to buy $100. worth of seafood to make me a chowder.  He was going on and on and on about how good it was going to be.  We got home and he dumped it all in the slow cooker.  I told him that would be a big mistake, but he didn't listen to me.  12 hours later we had pudding, a really disgusting, very expensive pudding that got heaved into the garbage.  From then on in Kevin was referred to as a "civilian" in the kitchen.  He often "helped" me in the kitchen but didn't actually touch any food.

 

-For about a year I had a second job and would come home quite late, often at 1 or 2 in the morning.  Kevin was always waiting up anticipating my call that I was on my way home.  He often had a nice hot bubble bath and a cup of tea ready for me when I got home.  When ever I was sick or under the weather Kevin took right over looking after me.  I loved him for it.

 

-even when Kevin did not have much of an appetite from the chemo I could almost always get him to eat something.  It didn't matter what time it was if he wanted fish and chips at 11:30 at night I would find it.  if he wanted upside down banana rum cake at 3:00 in the morning I made it.  He had such a sweet tooth, his favorites - rice pudding, oatmeal cookies, butter tarts, blueberry muffins, homemade hot chocolate and our special hot milk (with amaretto, nutmeg & grand marnier) I made often and he always ate them. 

 

-the weeks before Kevin passed his appetite came back with a vengeance.  He was able to enjoy Maria's homemade italian sausage, Lori's macaroni casserole, Diana's curried lentil soup, Terry's shortbread cookies, Lyndell's spiced round, his mom's Christmas turkey dinner and my homemade perogies, cabbage rolls and homecut frenchfries with gravy.

 

-one day in the fall Kevin proposed to me that he had researched flights, accomodations, prices etc. for the 2 of us to go to the south coast of India to return to a beautiful beach where he had spent some time when he was younger.  He wanted the 2 of us to get away from everything here and for him to spend the rest of his days there.

 

-all the "never"s Kevin spoke of over his life time and early in our relationship fell apart; every year we had a beautiful christmas tree, the newspaper delivered (to our door!), garbage pickup, a brand new dishwasher, washer & dryer, renos on the house, we spent every moment possible together, I remember the night he got down on both knees, handed me his ring and asked me to be his wife, he wanted to travel again and show me the places that had left an impression on him, he told me many times that he'd wished we had gotten together 20 years earlier and wondered what our kids would look like.  The first time he told me of this I laughed because it was so far removed from the way he had spoke in the past, but he went on to say, if we had, had a son what his name would be, and we both simultaneously said "Angus".  That is what his name would be.  He could always read my mind.  He always caught me by saying "don't yell at me!" when I hadn't even said anything yet but was thinking it.

 

My poor baby, he told me everyday that the only reason he hung on so long was for me- just for me.  It made me feel good and guilty both at the same time.  Part of me knows he is not in pain any more but the rest of me aches unbearably.  It is so painful to wake up every day and realize he is not beside me to talk to, hold my hand and kiss me. I still cannot believe it, I still expect to here him bellow from the living room "Baby!! come here I have to show you this". He should be here with me.   

 

Cyndy 

Kev's Band: The Squad

Pick a tune above to enjoy a 1984 Jam Session at the Port Arms - The ZZ Top tunes are 5 minutes long and the Jam Set is over 30 minutes.  There is more to come - these are very low grade recordings but the performance is grand.

Thanks to Terri, Jen and John for these pictures - do you have any to add?

“Maybe I’ll be there……. And maybe I won’t”

Awoke from a dream last night, …… turns out it was reality,

Ol’ boy Kev had made a commitment to mortality,

Over the years, a commitment phobic kind of guy he was,

Plan a party, he might not show—just because,

(Maybe I’ll be there…… And maybe I won’t”)

But damn he was cool, and quite charming too,

He loved the ladies, and as for a friend, he was true blue,

He didn’t take guff, he was his own man,

A strong-willed guy with a governing hand,

Eccentric you say?

I say no way!

It was just always, Kevin’s day!!!

Nick Springate would often say: “Kevin was an entertainer”

(A stage kind of guy---A real performer),

Well Nick, you were right,

And thank you for capturing Kevin on film and in the spotlight!!!

He loved all the attention, without a doubt,

An audible guy with passion to shout!

Jimmy Barkasy, ain’t no mistaken, and boy you were right,

When it came to a debate, Kev never had a knife at a gunfight!

Danny Tickner, you speak of laughter and juvenile behavior,

‘Twas the core that connected you, now one to savor,

Kevin taught us many lessons, all about life and about ourselves,

He challenged our perspective, cerebral “food for thought” to arouse,

He never wavered where family were concerned,

(Although he could be a real pain in the ass), just teasing, in turn,

The first song he sang to me, was a song about his brother Tim,

The words I won’t repeat today, but the song most certainly wasn’t about being thin,

(Kevin was such a brat!!!)

But he sure did love music though, that’s for fact!!!

(Hendrix anyone?—Watch over Kevin’s tower!)

Dave Pothecary, we go way back when,

Years ago, I do remember, Kevin took you into his den,

(He knew one hell of a musician player and a friend!)

(Hendrix, ZZ-Top, and the sun and the moon…… You is da Man!)

(Hey, Where’s My Waitress?)

Johnny Alfano, and the Boys, you’ve been there too,

Orlando Dolinski, you rocker, you’ve seen a thing or few!!!

(Hey, I grew hair on my chest too!!!)

Life’s lessons and legacies,

We are so blessed with dreams and fantasies,

The days ahead will be time for reflection,

And without a doubt, we’ll feel Kevin’s love and affection,

(Always).

Thank you Cyndy, Tim and family for being there for Kevin,

He has passed on, and is now in Heaven.

Darryl Blott, ask me how I’m doing today?

You know Kevin, he would want us to say:

“NEVER BEEN BETTER”

God Bless.

Written by: Lyndell Monkley

January 18, 2008

First time ever on Stage - well done, "Kevin will always be just over your shoulder"

Ray Roper does the classic "I will always love you"

Dav sings the Squad signature tune "Magic Carpet Ride"

Thank you all for the hours of music at the Wake Jam - below are a few photos, click on them to see full size, many of the jam videos will be posted below as they become available. Do not adjust your speakers - some of the audio was distorted by the volume at the front of the stage - but I am sure you will appreciate the content!

Skip, Mark, Ray and Tom demonstrate the fine art of "Jamming"   They are all flying by the seat of their pants, none of them have ever played together! 

"Red House"  Kevin's cousin Sean McCormick rocks the house with "Fast" Eddy on lead guitar.

 

Another Jam tune from Skip Prest (Maple Ridge), Mark Benson (Gibsons), Tom Goldie (Kelowna), Ray Medway (Coquitlam).  Ray breaks a string, grabs Ray Roper's guitar and recovers in record time!

 

This short video by Cyndy and Tim describe Kevin's desire to help underprivileged aboriginal children to learn how to play the guitar.  Cyndy's words are below:

"About a year and a half ago between chemo rounds, Kevin thought of and started making plans to start a rock school and to mentor youth who may be acoustically inclined at the Aboriginal Friendship Centre in Mission. (He had started making the plans with my brother-in-law Darryl Lucas who was the Director of the Centre at the time).  Unfortunately, when we learned he would have to go through another round of chemo he did not have the ability to carry on with his plan.  His dream was to create another like a Jimi Hendrix and to keep rock alive.

 

I have enlisted Nick Springate, Terri and Skip Prest to the Kevin McCormick Memorial Fund, including myself. Once a year we will sponsor at least one aboriginal youth, they will be provided with an electric guitar, amp, a year of electric guitar lessons with the plan that they be mentored by Kevin's friends in the music industry.  It is our way of ensuring that Kevin's incredible talent, passion and his dream be kept alive".   

 

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In order to set up a formal "Trust", we would need to go through the lengthy and expensive process of obtaining an Order of Probate and pay for costly administrative fees to lawyers and the government.  The account has been set up so that either Nick or I can deposit funds but requires both of us in person to withdraw any funds, this only after the Advisory Team makes a recommendation.  Donors will not receive an Income Tax Receipt. 

 

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I will chair the Team and keep us focused on Kevin's dream, that is paramount.  I hope it will also keep me from falling apart. Each member brings a unique and valuable set of qualities to the team, but then, if your character was not of the highest caliber we would not be united through Kevin.

 

For those who may not know Darryl Lucas he is the person who Kevin originally contacted and planned his "rock school" with, as he was at the time, the Director of the Aboriginal Friendship Centre.  Which has a large youth drop-in component. He has now moved on to be the Director of "Impact" an aboriginal youth Drug and Alcohol Centre in Abbotsford.  He still has very strong ties to the friendship centre and aboriginal resources around the province. 

I am a lucky girl to have two great brother-in-laws.  Darryl has graciously agreed to serve as a resource person on our team, he is a plethora of information.

 

At this time we do not require any more members on the team, down the road we can always re-assess if we require more or not.

 

Musical Mentors are asked to email me to offer their support - a group of musician including Mick, Skip, John, Ray have already volunteered their input.

If you wish to donate by credit card please call Nick Springate at 604.802.2436.  A PayPal Tip Jar is also being tested on the lower right on the website main page - the suggested donation is $25.00 - but any amount will be going to a great legacy.

Please feel free to comment below......................

          Kevin used to say to me, 'jess, you need to build your garden, plant your seeds and let the flowers grow, when the weeds come in....you need to throw them away.' 

    Kevin seemed to plant his garden with so many wonderful people.

I met Kevin when I was a waitress in Port Moody and someone had told him that I was a musician/singer. The first thing he asked of me was to sing the note 'E' in the middle of the room. I did it. We were friends ever since.

Kevin taught me everything. He taught me guitar, he taught me music but most importantly he believed in me. He supported me. He was my Mentor. I am so sad that I won't be able to sing and play with Kevin again......but I do know one thing....Kevin has planted a new bed and thats a very strong memory in my heart and many others.

I too am having a hard time accepting, but I also believe that he will be with us in so many other ways. This man was a special one to me.....I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for his wise words.

I too will not be able to make it Sunday. This was a very hard decision for me. I would of loved to come up and sing some Jimi Hendrix 'Little Wing' for our dear friend. I live in Nashville, TN now (a place were I know Kevin would LOVE!!!! I see him everywhere!!!!) I am really really sad that I cannot be there (tear), but my candle will have a flame and my stereo will be singing Little wing........

I miss you Kevin. Thank you for being a wonderful flower in my bed. :)

Watch Kevin and Jessica perform Little Wing live in this great (but short) clip from a few years ago:

In May 2006 Kevin and Nick took a boat ride up Indian Arm - they made some delightful and interesting videos, please enjoy.  The insights and love Kevin has to share are wonderful.  His love of music, sunshine and great friends will never be clearer than on this bright spring day in May.....

The day came for the boys to play...

Mark Benson and his 3 piece band Third Step perform Little Wing on Sat Jan 19 2008 - a classic power trio favorite.

Name: McCormick, Kevin Lindsay

Passed away: Thursday Jan-17-2008 at 7pm

At the age of 52

Survived by his loving wife Cyndy, his son Damien (Agnes), Parents Lindsay and Eileen McCormick, Sisters Jennifer( Keith) and Paddy Howe, Brother Tim (Lori); Granddaughter Margaret; Niece Natalie; Nephews Darryl & Riley Blott, Tim Howe, Dylan and Joel McCormick; Stepchildren: Ashley, Briane and Tim

After a very courageous battle with Cancer and surrounded by the love of his family and friends, Kevin was finally able to peacefully embark on his greatest Journey. While wrapped in the comfort of Cyndy’s arms Kevin decided to wait until their favorite show coronation street came on when he squeezed her hand and took his final breath.

Although Kevin was an extremely dedicated employee to BCBC for the past 32 years who rarely missed a single day in all that time, his true passion was his music. Kevin was an extremely accomplished musician who has inspired so many with his brilliance as a guitarist. Kevin’s abilities even made the accordion seem cool.

At a very early age Kevin decided to explore the world in search of enlightenment and returned to us with the wisdom and experience of a much older man. Since his return he has focused on friends, love, laughter and food and we are all blessed for having had him in our lives.

As was your way, you decided to leave the party early with us all wanting more and we will miss you every day until we meet again.

In lieu of donations and flowers, we have something special in mind to keep Kevin’s dream alive and respectfully ask that people hold off until the date of the service where we will provide information about this Charity. For those unable to attend, information will be available through the following website: www.gosee.tv/kevin/

Services will be held on Sunday Jan-27^th  at 11am Location: Burquitlam Funeral Home  625 North Road Coquitlam BC

  Hi to All, Mac, etc.:

Being one of a non-opinionated sort; writing/typing is simply an awkward way of communicating, for me; however:
Hendrix, Lemon Hart & Son(s); Spliffs (with "works of art" filters); motorcycles @ Swan-E-Set; "Life" at the teen centre in PoCo; Dolly Dagger; Gibson/Strat guitars, that regardless of amplification methodology always sounded Kevin; best slide guitar (a true wizard); charming/chivalry; perpetual "positive" attitude, or ATTITUDE; "lifeboat" in a sinking lifestyle; Centennial; postcards from Fiji; Zen Frisbee; The Cops; heaviest looking accordian player (shades of Tim Curry); Randy Hansen (with Mitch Mitchell standing next to us); Kim @ Roosters; Scuzziest gig in Western Canada: The Bal

I met Kevin in Grade 11; courtesy of Mr. Ray Medway; these 2 guys were playing guitar in "Snakedrive".  I've ended up playing more gigs with Kev, than any other individual on the face of the earth; starting with a Kevin named band "Life" (he named, orchestrated,dictated, arranged): "Wild Billy" Ayres on drums, Mac on guitar, and myself(Bass); tranposrtation: Courtesy of '62 Chevy II.   James Gang, Hendrix, anything else that we could muster based on the Scout Hall schoolings.
Memories of the times: smoking in the cafe @ Centennial (Oh yeah; catching a heavy band in the auditorium/theatre @ Centennial: Pax) Ron Good's house just off of Como Lake; Kevin's Marshall purchase from Hoffman's......he was so excited about demonstrating the new amp, he ended up pushing me down the stairs and causing a few injuries (I think a stitch or 2) resulting from contact with the ceiling above..........he still pedalled the Marshall to "11", prior to taking me to the hospital.

I ended going back East in the late 70's, and didn't hook up with Kev until the early 80's.  Continued schooling in the basement on Poirier. Kev made a suggestion that maybe I do some jams/a jam with him; I hadn't done this since the teen years.....and ended up @ Delaneys. What a blast; As a result of the McCorm Connection; we jammed with some of the best Vancouver musicians: Dave Pothecary (with hair!!!); Spud wasn't there yet (we were looking for you), Too Loud drumming, Rocket, Mr. Roper (Heartbreaker/Livin Lovin Maid), Tony Tully (not sure of spelling), Skip, Frank (Toronto), Mike Root (again, spelling), Geoff, tons more.
As it turns out, we played together in "The Squad" (Kevin, Spud, Dave) for approx. 20 years.  We got together last nite at Gater's: Power of Soul/Rums in copious amounts. Spud brought up leaving you in limbo for the "She's Gone, Gone, Gone" intro....I figured you would play that for 5 minutes.
"Cool, Refreshing Beverages"; lots remembered; more probably forgotton, or, likely, in the fabrication zone.
Personal Family Notes:
1) Kevin holding my grandson, Donovan, as a newborn.
2) Rory told me that you made him feel cool, coming from the "coolest" one, it's stuck with him thru the years.  He is a monster Tabla player.
"Lifeboat": About 5 - 6 years ago, I had gone a little sideways during life's journey.  The result was, I had pawned my most precious possession (B.C Rich: Mockingbird); I hadn't told him that I had; still don't know how he found out;  Mac rescued it for me, kept it for me; it's back with me today.  WAY TOO COOL!!   
If anybody ever needed, wanted, didn't want a friend; Mac is....always will be.....a main thread in the fabric of my life.   

The Big O

P.S.:   For Shades of Kevin; tune in Alice Coopers dj show.   I understand that it isn't on the radio in the Lower Mainland, but you can probably pick this up on Satellite....somewhere.  Content is not Kevin, but delivery?????????   & Vocal Mannerisms......Listen.


from DIANNE DOLINSKI


When I think of the words, the thoughts, the love that pours in from all of us remembering Kevin I go to a Beatles song that speaks the words better than I can.

WORDS ARE FLOWING OUT LIKE ENDLESS RAIN INTO A PAPER CUP,
THEY SLITHER WHILE THEY PASS,THEY SLIP AWAY ACROSS THE UNIVERSE.
POOLS OF SORROW WAVES OF JOY ARE DRIFTING THROUGH MY OPENED MIND,
POSSESSING AND CARESSING ME.

SOUNDS OF LAUGHTER SHADES OF LIFE ARE RINGING
THROUGH MY OPEN EARS INCITING AND INVITING ME.
LIMITLESS UNDYING LOVE WHICH SHINES AROUND ME LIKE A MILLION SUNS,
AND CALLS ME ON AND ON ACROSS THE UNIVERSE.

JAI GURU DE VA
JAI GURU DE VA
JAI GURU DE VA

KEVIN - LIMITLESS UNDYING LOVE DOES SHINE AROUND YOU LIKE A MILLION SUNS ON YOUR JOURNEY ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. PEACE FRIEND.

DIANNE DOLINSKI

Old Photos of Kevin

Thanks to Terri, Jen and John for these pictures - do you have any to add?

Poem - Maybe I'll be There..

“Maybe I’ll be there……. And maybe I won’t”

Awoke from a dream last night, …… turns out it was reality,

Ol’ boy Kev had made a commitment to mortality,

Over the years, a commitment phobic kind of guy he was,

Plan a party, he might not show—just because,

(Maybe I’ll be there…… And maybe I won’t”)

But damn he was cool, and quite charming too,

He loved the ladies, and as for a friend, he was true blue,

He didn’t take guff, he was his own man,

A strong-willed guy with a governing hand,

Eccentric you say?

I say no way!

It was just always, Kevin’s day!!!

Nick Springate would often say: “Kevin was an entertainer”

(A stage kind of guy---A real performer),

Well Nick, you were right,

And thank you for capturing Kevin on film and in the spotlight!!!

He loved all the attention, without a doubt,

An audible guy with passion to shout!

Jimmy Barkasy, ain’t no mistaken, and boy you were right,

When it came to a debate, Kev never had a knife at a gunfight!

Danny Tickner, you speak of laughter and juvenile behavior,

‘Twas the core that connected you, now one to savor,

Kevin taught us many lessons, all about life and about ourselves,

He challenged our perspective, cerebral “food for thought” to arouse,

He never wavered where family were concerned,

(Although he could be a real pain in the ass), just teasing, in turn,

The first song he sang to me, was a song about his brother Tim,

The words I won’t repeat today, but the song most certainly wasn’t about being thin,

(Kevin was such a brat!!!)

But he sure did love music though, that’s for fact!!!

(Hendrix anyone?—Watch over Kevin’s tower!)

Dave Pothecary, we go way back when,

Years ago, I do remember, Kevin took you into his den,

(He knew one hell of a musician player and a friend!)

(Hendrix, ZZ-Top, and the sun and the moon…… You is da Man!)

(Hey, Where’s My Waitress?)

Johnny Alfano, and the Boys, you’ve been there too,

Orlando Dolinski, you rocker, you’ve seen a thing or few!!!

(Hey, I grew hair on my chest too!!!)

Life’s lessons and legacies,

We are so blessed with dreams and fantasies,

The days ahead will be time for reflection,

And without a doubt, we’ll feel Kevin’s love and affection,

(Always).

Thank you Cyndy, Tim and family for being there for Kevin,

He has passed on, and is now in Heaven.

Darryl Blott, ask me how I’m doing today?

You know Kevin, he would want us to say:

“NEVER BEEN BETTER”

God Bless.

Written by: Lyndell Monkley

January 18, 2008

Kevin's Nephew Darryl Blott

First time ever on Stage - well done, "Kevin will always be just over your shoulder"

Wake Jam Videos

Ray Roper does the classic "I will always love you"

Dav sings the Squad signature tune "Magic Carpet Ride"

Thank you all for the hours of music at the Wake Jam - below are a few photos, click on them to see full size, many of the jam videos will be posted below as they become available. Do not adjust your speakers - some of the audio was distorted by the volume at the front of the stage - but I am sure you will appreciate the content!

Skip, Mark, Ray and Tom demonstrate the fine art of "Jamming"   They are all flying by the seat of their pants, none of them have ever played together! 

"Red House"  Kevin's cousin Sean McCormick rocks the house with "Fast" Eddy on lead guitar.

 

Another Jam tune from Skip Prest (Maple Ridge), Mark Benson (Gibsons), Tom Goldie (Kelowna), Ray Medway (Coquitlam).  Ray breaks a string, grabs Ray Roper's guitar and recovers in record time!

 

Donation Details

This short video by Cyndy and Tim describe Kevin's desire to help underprivileged aboriginal children to learn how to play the guitar.  Cyndy's words are below:

"About a year and a half ago between chemo rounds, Kevin thought of and started making plans to start a rock school and to mentor youth who may be acoustically inclined at the Aboriginal Friendship Centre in Mission. (He had started making the plans with my brother-in-law Darryl Lucas who was the Director of the Centre at the time).  Unfortunately, when we learned he would have to go through another round of chemo he did not have the ability to carry on with his plan.  His dream was to create another like a Jimi Hendrix and to keep rock alive.

 

I have enlisted Nick Springate, Terri and Skip Prest to the Kevin McCormick Memorial Fund, including myself. Once a year we will sponsor at least one aboriginal youth, they will be provided with an electric guitar, amp, a year of electric guitar lessons with the plan that they be mentored by Kevin's friends in the music industry.  It is our way of ensuring that Kevin's incredible talent, passion and his dream be kept alive".   

 

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In order to set up a formal "Trust", we would need to go through the lengthy and expensive process of obtaining an Order of Probate and pay for costly administrative fees to lawyers and the government.  The account has been set up so that either Nick or I can deposit funds but requires both of us in person to withdraw any funds, this only after the Advisory Team makes a recommendation.  Donors will not receive an Income Tax Receipt. 

 

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I will chair the Team and keep us focused on Kevin's dream, that is paramount.  I hope it will also keep me from falling apart. Each member brings a unique and valuable set of qualities to the team, but then, if your character was not of the highest caliber we would not be united through Kevin.

 

For those who may not know Darryl Lucas he is the person who Kevin originally contacted and planned his "rock school" with, as he was at the time, the Director of the Aboriginal Friendship Centre.  Which has a large youth drop-in component. He has now moved on to be the Director of "Impact" an aboriginal youth Drug and Alcohol Centre in Abbotsford.  He still has very strong ties to the friendship centre and aboriginal resources around the province. 

I am a lucky girl to have two great brother-in-laws.  Darryl has graciously agreed to serve as a resource person on our team, he is a plethora of information.

 

At this time we do not require any more members on the team, down the road we can always re-assess if we require more or not.

 

Musical Mentors are asked to email me to offer their support - a group of musician including Mick, Skip, John, Ray have already volunteered their input.

If you wish to donate by credit card please call Nick Springate at 604.802.2436.  A PayPal Tip Jar is also being tested on the lower right on the website main page - the suggested donation is $25.00 - but any amount will be going to a great legacy.

Please feel free to comment below......................

Song From Jessica

          Kevin used to say to me, 'jess, you need to build your garden, plant your seeds and let the flowers grow, when the weeds come in....you need to throw them away.' 

    Kevin seemed to plant his garden with so many wonderful people.

I met Kevin when I was a waitress in Port Moody and someone had told him that I was a musician/singer. The first thing he asked of me was to sing the note 'E' in the middle of the room. I did it. We were friends ever since.

Kevin taught me everything. He taught me guitar, he taught me music but most importantly he believed in me. He supported me. He was my Mentor. I am so sad that I won't be able to sing and play with Kevin again......but I do know one thing....Kevin has planted a new bed and thats a very strong memory in my heart and many others.

I too am having a hard time accepting, but I also believe that he will be with us in so many other ways. This man was a special one to me.....I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for his wise words.

I too will not be able to make it Sunday. This was a very hard decision for me. I would of loved to come up and sing some Jimi Hendrix 'Little Wing' for our dear friend. I live in Nashville, TN now (a place were I know Kevin would LOVE!!!! I see him everywhere!!!!) I am really really sad that I cannot be there (tear), but my candle will have a flame and my stereo will be singing Little wing........

I miss you Kevin. Thank you for being a wonderful flower in my bed. :)

Watch Kevin and Jessica perform Little Wing live in this great (but short) clip from a few years ago:

Kevin at Home

Father & Son Photos

Cyndy & Kevin at the Spike

Kev's Boat Trip Videos

In May 2006 Kevin and Nick took a boat ride up Indian Arm - they made some delightful and interesting videos, please enjoy.  The insights and love Kevin has to share are wonderful.  His love of music, sunshine and great friends will never be clearer than on this bright spring day in May.....

The day came for the boys to play...

A Tribute to Kev - Little Wing

Mark Benson and his 3 piece band Third Step perform Little Wing on Sat Jan 19 2008 - a classic power trio favorite.

Kevin McCormick's Obituary

Name: McCormick, Kevin Lindsay

Passed away: Thursday Jan-17-2008 at 7pm

At the age of 52

Survived by his loving wife Cyndy, his son Damien (Agnes), Parents Lindsay and Eileen McCormick, Sisters Jennifer( Keith) and Paddy Howe, Brother Tim (Lori); Granddaughter Margaret; Niece Natalie; Nephews Darryl & Riley Blott, Tim Howe, Dylan and Joel McCormick; Stepchildren: Ashley, Briane and Tim

After a very courageous battle with Cancer and surrounded by the love of his family and friends, Kevin was finally able to peacefully embark on his greatest Journey. While wrapped in the comfort of Cyndy’s arms Kevin decided to wait until their favorite show coronation street came on when he squeezed her hand and took his final breath.

Although Kevin was an extremely dedicated employee to BCBC for the past 32 years who rarely missed a single day in all that time, his true passion was his music. Kevin was an extremely accomplished musician who has inspired so many with his brilliance as a guitarist. Kevin’s abilities even made the accordion seem cool.

At a very early age Kevin decided to explore the world in search of enlightenment and returned to us with the wisdom and experience of a much older man. Since his return he has focused on friends, love, laughter and food and we are all blessed for having had him in our lives.

As was your way, you decided to leave the party early with us all wanting more and we will miss you every day until we meet again.

In lieu of donations and flowers, we have something special in mind to keep Kevin’s dream alive and respectfully ask that people hold off until the date of the service where we will provide information about this Charity. For those unable to attend, information will be available through the following website: www.gosee.tv/kevin/

Services will be held on Sunday Jan-27^th  at 11am Location: Burquitlam Funeral Home  625 North Road Coquitlam BC

Orlando's Comment

  Hi to All, Mac, etc.:

Being one of a non-opinionated sort; writing/typing is simply an awkward way of communicating, for me; however:
Hendrix, Lemon Hart & Son(s); Spliffs (with "works of art" filters); motorcycles @ Swan-E-Set; "Life" at the teen centre in PoCo; Dolly Dagger; Gibson/Strat guitars, that regardless of amplification methodology always sounded Kevin; best slide guitar (a true wizard); charming/chivalry; perpetual "positive" attitude, or ATTITUDE; "lifeboat" in a sinking lifestyle; Centennial; postcards from Fiji; Zen Frisbee; The Cops; heaviest looking accordian player (shades of Tim Curry); Randy Hansen (with Mitch Mitchell standing next to us); Kim @ Roosters; Scuzziest gig in Western Canada: The Bal

I met Kevin in Grade 11; courtesy of Mr. Ray Medway; these 2 guys were playing guitar in "Snakedrive".  I've ended up playing more gigs with Kev, than any other individual on the face of the earth; starting with a Kevin named band "Life" (he named, orchestrated,dictated, arranged): "Wild Billy" Ayres on drums, Mac on guitar, and myself(Bass); tranposrtation: Courtesy of '62 Chevy II.   James Gang, Hendrix, anything else that we could muster based on the Scout Hall schoolings.
Memories of the times: smoking in the cafe @ Centennial (Oh yeah; catching a heavy band in the auditorium/theatre @ Centennial: Pax) Ron Good's house just off of Como Lake; Kevin's Marshall purchase from Hoffman's......he was so excited about demonstrating the new amp, he ended up pushing me down the stairs and causing a few injuries (I think a stitch or 2) resulting from contact with the ceiling above..........he still pedalled the Marshall to "11", prior to taking me to the hospital.

I ended going back East in the late 70's, and didn't hook up with Kev until the early 80's.  Continued schooling in the basement on Poirier. Kev made a suggestion that maybe I do some jams/a jam with him; I hadn't done this since the teen years.....and ended up @ Delaneys. What a blast; As a result of the McCorm Connection; we jammed with some of the best Vancouver musicians: Dave Pothecary (with hair!!!); Spud wasn't there yet (we were looking for you), Too Loud drumming, Rocket, Mr. Roper (Heartbreaker/Livin Lovin Maid), Tony Tully (not sure of spelling), Skip, Frank (Toronto), Mike Root (again, spelling), Geoff, tons more.
As it turns out, we played together in "The Squad" (Kevin, Spud, Dave) for approx. 20 years.  We got together last nite at Gater's: Power of Soul/Rums in copious amounts. Spud brought up leaving you in limbo for the "She's Gone, Gone, Gone" intro....I figured you would play that for 5 minutes.
"Cool, Refreshing Beverages"; lots remembered; more probably forgotton, or, likely, in the fabrication zone.
Personal Family Notes:
1) Kevin holding my grandson, Donovan, as a newborn.
2) Rory told me that you made him feel cool, coming from the "coolest" one, it's stuck with him thru the years.  He is a monster Tabla player.
"Lifeboat": About 5 - 6 years ago, I had gone a little sideways during life's journey.  The result was, I had pawned my most precious possession (B.C Rich: Mockingbird); I hadn't told him that I had; still don't know how he found out;  Mac rescued it for me, kept it for me; it's back with me today.  WAY TOO COOL!!   
If anybody ever needed, wanted, didn't want a friend; Mac is....always will be.....a main thread in the fabric of my life.   

The Big O

P.S.:   For Shades of Kevin; tune in Alice Coopers dj show.   I understand that it isn't on the radio in the Lower Mainland, but you can probably pick this up on Satellite....somewhere.  Content is not Kevin, but delivery?????????   & Vocal Mannerisms......Listen.


from DIANNE DOLINSKI


When I think of the words, the thoughts, the love that pours in from all of us remembering Kevin I go to a Beatles song that speaks the words better than I can.

WORDS ARE FLOWING OUT LIKE ENDLESS RAIN INTO A PAPER CUP,
THEY SLITHER WHILE THEY PASS,THEY SLIP AWAY ACROSS THE UNIVERSE.
POOLS OF SORROW WAVES OF JOY ARE DRIFTING THROUGH MY OPENED MIND,
POSSESSING AND CARESSING ME.

SOUNDS OF LAUGHTER SHADES OF LIFE ARE RINGING
THROUGH MY OPEN EARS INCITING AND INVITING ME.
LIMITLESS UNDYING LOVE WHICH SHINES AROUND ME LIKE A MILLION SUNS,
AND CALLS ME ON AND ON ACROSS THE UNIVERSE.

JAI GURU DE VA
JAI GURU DE VA
JAI GURU DE VA

KEVIN - LIMITLESS UNDYING LOVE DOES SHINE AROUND YOU LIKE A MILLION SUNS ON YOUR JOURNEY ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. PEACE FRIEND.

DIANNE DOLINSKI

Dancing Days Video

Driving While Blind Video

Magic Carpet Ride Video

Power of Soul Video

Recent Years

The Rock & Roll Years

The Early Years

Kevin in his 20s

Becoming a teenager