Jack Velker Sunday Soul Service Memorial

Posted in April 10th, 2009

I took this photo of Jack Velker at ManDido’s memorial service in January. At the time, it seemed like an unusual thing to do, but I wanted to remember all my friends that were there remembering ManDido. I didn’t have the courage to take photos of everyone, just the people I knew well. Now I am really glad I did because Jack has passed away.

I met Jack at the Sunday Soul Service at the Cottage Bistro at 4468 Main St. Sometimes they let me sit in and do my songs, and I was always happy to sit and listen to the house band. Ross Barrett, saxophonist and flute player, who was also at ManDido’s memorial, is pictured below. He was Jack’s partner in presenting the Soul Service each Sunday for the devotees of the Isis Cult. The Cult will be meeting in full force this Sunday to remember Jack (Facebook event here).

I always enjoyed going down and sitting in at the Cottage with the band, as the ranks of players swelled off the stage and on to the floor. Sometimes there were rows of people playing as Jack conducted chorus after chorus through “Little Liza Jane”.

When Jack strapped on his bandoneon, the “stomach Steinway”, as he fondly called it, Ross’s deep love for Latin music could really shine out.

The band was in fine form last Sunday and this Sunday will be a more official memorial. I don’t know if I will play, but I will be happy to listen and take photos.

2 users commented in " Jack Velker Sunday Soul Service Memorial "

Jessie Christophersen said,

in April 29th, 2009 at 9:59 pm

Hi there - I met Victoria at the VCC Sustainability Fair today and decided to check out the website (it’s great by the way) - cool projects going on. I, too, am a musician and had the pleasure of meeting Jack Velker on a few occasions at the Bistro (my local hangout). He was a true gentleman and always willing to share his stage - he accompanied our band a few times and it was always a pleasure.
Thanks for putting this tribute here.
Jessie
(Recycling Council of BC)

terry said,

in June 27th, 2010 at 8:59 pm

Well, here it is a year later, and i just learned about the passing of my old friend.
Needless to say, i was stunned at the news.
Jack and i go back to the 49th Psrrallel days, where we played for a couple of years together.
We also did a couple of things together in Van.
I have so many stories about our wild endeavours, and they all came flooding back when i heard the news.
We used to jam Jimmy Smith swing till the sun came up, with Jack digging in on his Hammond organ, and it cooled like hell.
I had to post a few words, as it is better late than never.
Sincere condolences to his family, and all his friends.
And Audy, if you visit this forum, a special hello to you.
I’ll always remember your wonderful Chinese food you cooked for us up on Broadway.

Goodbye old friend, and thanks for the good times.