We’re sad to report that a longtime member of the Widespread Panic crew, Garrie Vereen, passed away on Wednesday morning due to what a statement calls “unexpected complications from his recent aneurysm.”
Vereen first met John Bell in 1984 and started traveling with the band in 1991, taking on a variety of roles including selling t-shirts, keyboard tech, roadie, road manager, production manager and anything else that was asked of him. Known to many as “one of the nicest guys in the industry,” Vereen will be missed by all who knew him.
Here’s the band’s official statement about Vereen’s passing…
One of the truest friends on and of this earth, Donald Garrie Vereen, passed away Wednesday morning due to unexpected complications from his recent aneurism.
So many blessings have already been received by so many concerned; Garrie’s Family and extended Family thank you all for trying to help fill this new found void in our Hearts.
However… and this is important… in this age of lightning speed information (and mis-information) sharing, The Vereen and Widespread Panic Families respectfully request that energies spent are not wasted on rumor and speculation, but channeled into the Love we share for Garrie, his Family, and one another.
With Respect, Reverence, and Blessings,
Windy Vereen and John Bell
7 Responses
Colin, you and your family are in our prayers….Don’t hesitate to call us if you need anything. Sorry to hear about Garrie….hope to talk to you soon….
John Luther & Angela
The correct spelling is In Memoriam.
Alfred Lord Tennyson is turning in his grave.
why conflicting reports of death?
http://www.accessatlanta.com/AccessAtlanta-sharing_/widespread-panics-equipment-manager-843673.html
He was stabbed to death. Awful.
http://onlineathens.com/stories/021711/bre_787133956.shtml
I met Garrie and conversed with him a few times prior to him tuning Sonnys congas…he was always easy to talk to.
Why was that article written about him being murdered when the band said he had an anurism…Confusing! This sucks after such a high moment this last week…..those 2 Athens shows blew me away as I listened over the airways. Bummer..
God bless his family, the band, and all his close friends.
Sounds like the band either didn’t have all the facts or wanted to not spread that he was murdered.
Josh Stack of Panic Fans For Food said it best”In the midst of the tumult and confusion, people are wont to speculate. What gets lost is the simple fact that a husband, father, brother, and one of the gentlest and kindest souls has passed from our midst. Circumstances surrounding this passing will sort themselves out in time. For now, put on some Panic and send all your love to Garrie’s family, friends, and the guys in Widespread Panic.”
Rest in peace dear Garrie, we will miss you!