Richie Hass and wife Michelle

Richie Hass has lost his battle with cancer.

Richie was a founding member of local art-band Zoogz Rift And The Amazing Shitheads, and played a number of instruments in a number of bands, most recently seen on vibes in Saccharine Trust, behind the drums with the Page Turner Band and playing bass for Freehead.

Richie was an incredibly natural musician, proficient on every instrument he picked up. On the number of occasions this author had to work with him, he brought an energy and a commitment to the task at hand that was inspirational. Getting the sound out there in its pure form was no small thing, but something he approached as a personal mission.

The music community rallied around Richie during his struggle, staging a benefit at Safari Sam's that became one of the best gigs of 2007. The benefit featuring Mike Watt, the Bellrays and more than a dozen others. It ended up being a ten-hour gig; everyone wanted to be part of it and he was too nice to say no to any of them.

His was a rare and genuine spirit and he will be sorely missed.

Richie's Myspace

Listen to Richie's Music

For more information, read Michelle's Blog

Donations can be made to the International Myeloma Foundation

Richie Playing Vibes with Saccharin Trust

Richie Playing with Freehead at 2007 Benefit

All photos by Elise Thompson