Ross Donald Catalano

Ross Catalano and I were friends for 33 years. Although we lost touch when I moved to California 10 years ago, there was a time when we were inseparable. The old gang was four of us, including Rob Aquino and Rob Avilez, and then a few years later Ray Smith joined our circle. We had so much fun and caused so much trouble as teenagers, though I won't give details to protect the, uh, innocent. We bonded over a love of music, and mutual respect for each others' skill at our craft. Nobody played the blues guitar like Ross, a consummate talent and showman. He could have easily hung with the greats like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Joe Bonamossa, etc. Well, he's probably jamming with the first two right now. I remember when he got a perm and wanted to join the paratroopers because Hendrix did and he wanted to look like him. He was so cool and wildly funny. All the girls loved him. Always the life of the party, and could always lift your spirits. He was good hearted and always there for me. I only wish I was there to lift his spirits and prevent this tragedy. But his spirit has now indeed been lifted from us too soon, and risen to a better place where I know he will find peace. There are no broken strings where he's at now, a note can sustain sweetly and infinitely, and he will be making heavenly music with his heroes forever, and maybe teach them a thing or two! I'm grateful to have had you in my life. I'll miss you forever, my friend.