Born May 19, 1947 in Aberdeen, Scotland died on October 30, 2009 in Victoria, BC. He is survived by his wife, Mechthild “Maggie” Williamson; sisters, Anet Williamson of Victoria, BC, and Eileen Harvey (Bill) of Halifax, NS; nieces, Nicole, Renee, Rachelle and Juliet of Halifax NS; brother, Charlie Williamson (Ava) of Mission, BC; mother-in-law, Helga Kroscky of Germany; and sister-in-law, Annette Henrichs (Kasper) of Germany.
Lou was an extremely honourable man, a multi-talented percussionist, specializing on vibes and drums. He was a mentor to many and will be greatly missed by all.
In Lou’s honour, a musical tribute to celebrate his life will be held in the new year. To honour Lou’s memory, donations may be made to the “Lou Williamson Scholarship Fund” for young drummers, AFM Local 247 Musician’s Association of Victoria and the Islands, 732 Princess Ave., Suite 202, Victoria, BC V8T 1K6.
46 Responses
To Lou’s loved ones: I did not know Lou for very long but had the pleasure and honour of briefly playing with him in a group with his old friend Fred Herfst , singer Lindsay Barber, and guitarist Mike (whose last name I’m forgetting). We were not the fulltime professional musicians that Lou usually played with but he treated us like equals and his generous and playful spirit inspired and delighted us all. We did some recording with him, regretfully never quite made it to the stage though we had been scheduled for a park bandshell gig. I was aware that he had already been through difficult health problems, and he seemed to be one of those survivors whose awareness was expanded through some very hard times. He seemed to appreciate, to savour whatever was happening moment to moment, with great enthusiasm and compassion, and peace as well. I hope that those qualities remained with him in his final days. I wish you great comfort in the memories you cherish of him.
Dear Maggie,
To say we are sorry for your loss is an understatement. Lou is imprinted in countless wonderful memories over the last 20 years. We will miss Lou’s gentile manner, his quick wit and genuine sincerity in all that he did. What a huge and irreplaceable talent.
Godspeed Lou….may the angels dance to your unforgettable beat.
with love
Eve and Chris Millington
I was so sad to hear of Lou’s passing. I had the privilege of working many years with Lou in connection with the City of Victoria’s co-sponsored MPF concert program. Lou was such a gentleman as well as an accomplished musician. He dedicated so many hours of hardwork for the Association and its members. Through his music he brought much joy to many. My sincere condolences to all of Lou’s family during this difficult time.
Thank you Lou. You will be missed.
I was Inspired with the musical talent and caliber Lou has expressed, tireless effort towards the drums and all percussion instruments. It’s that extra kick or tap that makes you look saying “That was Awesome!” Lou was an excellent Musician, Mentor, and Friend. If you ever wanted to meet a true professional, Lou was the Man. He will be greatly missed and remembered. I’m glad I had the opportunity to learn and be inspired by this great man. Thank you Lou. I send my prayers and support to his family and his many friends during this time of loss.
I had the honour and the pleasure of working with Lou both in Montreal and at the CF School of Music. He was super-talented, flexible and good humoured. Canadian Music has lost an inspiring spirit. Everyone who knew him will feel a great loss.
I first met Lou in Montreal and was lucky to play many gigs with him. It was always a great pleasure. I was lucky enough to see him again a few years ago and it seemed as though nothing had changed. A fabulous person and great advocate for musicians.
We have lost a very fine friend.
Lou was an extraordinary man and a wonderful collegue on the AFM’s Canadian Conference Executive Board. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
RIP Lou Thank you for your friendship and musicality.
I first met Lou in the early ’90s when serving in the Canadian Navy. I remember that everyone in the band was so excited that Lou Williamson was coming to the Naden Band.. All we heard from those who had worked with him in the past was, “wait til you hear this guy play!!”. He showed up, we pulled out some Buddy Rich features, and the fun began. The band went up a big notch…
Since then, I had the privilege of working with Lou in almost every conceivable musical setting; marching band (not so much fun), Tom Vickery’s Trio, the Tommy Banks Big Band, Chris Millington’s various ensembles, the Monday Night Big Band, the Victoria Symphony… on stage, in the studio. In every situation, Lou cared deeply about contributing in the most positive way he could. That focus carried over to the other musicians working with him. His professionalism, his energy, and the fact that he clearly cared about making people smile were why he was on almost every gig that I did in Victoria.
I came back to Victoria to play with the symphony last March and, sure enough, there was Lou in the percussion section. On my last day of the visit, my friend, Dave Enns, took me to a church for a Jazz Vespers service and there was Lou again.. playing the vibes this time. I’m so glad they invited me to sit in. I have that memory to reflect on as I think about my friend Lou. We will all miss you. Thank you for the time we had with you.
Lou was truly an awesome man. He always had a smile on his face and was very generous to me over the few years I knew him. He helped me with several musical theory related questions during my studies in Victoria and also provided a beautiful letter of recommendation to help my wife and I immigrate to the United States. I will forever be thankful to him and he will be missed very much. Our deepest condolences to Lou’s family. God bless and RIP Lou. Sincerely, Peter and Melody Barbeau