Gone but not forgotten

The Northeast Variety Band has 20 musicians playing for parades and sit-down concerts, and one musician stood out with his great trumpet playing.

Michael F. DeMelfi joined our band about two years ago and soon had his grandson, Nicholas Hecknote, playing his trumpet alongside him.

They both also played their trumpets in the Hazleton Philharmonic band, and Michael played with the Jan Lewan and St. Ann Band of Freeland.

It was with great musical pleasure for other musicians to just watch the good time that 66-year-old grandfather and 14-year-old grandson had as they played together.

Michael F. DeMelfi died on Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016, and h is already missed by the entire band.

May God be with you, Michael.

Ken Clauser

Treasurer/Northeast Variety Band and Friend