bookie was my friend mostly in the '60s and '70s although i saw him a few years ago and from time to time. i have many wonderful memories of these years. he was sweet, charming, warm and totally fun-loving. and, of course, last but not least, a very talented musician. he gave his all to every performance. he was married to a friend of mine for years and they produced a magnificent son who is at this moment touring with sergio mendes. my best memories are during the years bookie was with cannonball. whether it was in ny, l.a., s.f., we partied hearty! i often reminisce with zawinul, george duke or roy mccurdy, who i plan to see tonight to celebrate his 70th birthday. we all loved bookie. you couldn't help but love him. he had all the attributes of the loving saggitarius he was.
i'm sure he's already got the party started up there! party, on, my friend.