Bugs Beddow Death and Obituary, Who was Bugs Beddow? What Happened to Bugs Beddow? How did Bugs Beddow Die?
by Aishwarya R | Updated Sep 14, 2023
Who was Bugs Beddow?
Bugs Beddow was a multifaceted individual who wore many hats throughout his life. Not only was he a loving husband and devoted father, but he was also a highly talented musician with a diverse skill set. He was renowned for his mastery of the trombone, flute, and vocals, showcasing his versatility in the world of music. Bugs Beddow didn't just stop at performing; he was also a notable bandleader, guiding the acclaimed Detroit area Rock & Soul ensemble known as "Bugs Beddow & the Good STuFF." With this band, Bugs Beddow and his talented group of musicians delivered outstanding renditions of the best Rock & Soul music spanning the last four decades.
In addition to his impressive musical career, Bugs Beddow was deeply committed to music education. His involvement as a Principal Trombonist and Vice President of the Orchard Lake Philharmonic demonstrated his dedication to sharing his knowledge and passion for music with others. Bugs Beddow's legacy lives on through his contributions to both classical and contemporary music, leaving a lasting impact on the Detroit music scene and beyond. Here is a Bio of Bugs Beddow:-
Name
Bugs Beddow
Full Name
Douglas "Bugs" Beddow
Gender
Male
Profession
musician, bandleader, and educator
Birth Year
1953
Birth Place
Detroit, Michigan, US
Death day
12 September 2023
Age at Death
68
Wife
Kathy
Children
Joseph
Parents
Willam and Olga Beddow
Siblings
older sister Kate
Specifications
Details
Bugs Beddow Death and Obituary
On September 12, 2023, the music world and the Detroit community mourned the loss of a true legend, Bugs Beddow. It was a somber day as Bugs Beddow peacefully concluded his courageous battle with cancer. His passing marked the end of an era, leaving a void that will be deeply felt by those who knew and admired him.
Despite the sorrow, Bugs Beddow's legacy remains vibrant and enduring. His contributions to music, both as a talented musician and a dedicated educator, will continue to resonate through the ages. His influence on the Detroit music scene and his impact on countless students will ensure that his spirit lives on, serving as an inspiration for generations to come. Bugs Beddow may have bid farewell to this world, but his music and memory will endure as a testament to his indomitable spirit and passion for the art form he cherished.
Bugs Beddow Education and Music Passion
Bugs Beddow's journey into the world of music was sparked by a pivotal moment during his third-grade years at Thomas Houghten Elementary School in Detroit. At a pep assembly, he was captivated by the trombone player's dynamic and energetic performance, which contrasted with the stationary positions of other musicians. This moment ignited his passion for music, and he set his sights on becoming a trombonist. As he progressed through elementary and secondary school, Bugs remained actively involved in music, even teaching himself to play the bass guitar and flute.
When Bugs Beddow began his college education at Northern Michigan University, he initially pursued a Pre-Dental major. However, his academic path took a different turn when he encountered difficulties in subjects like physics, math, and science. Recognizing where his true passion lay, Bugs decided to switch his major to music. This decision proved to be a turning point in his academic career, as he excelled in music courses, became heavily involved in music ensembles, and found a community of like-minded musicians who became his friends.
His dedication to music education led him to graduate from Northern Michigan University in 1975 with a Bachelor's degree in Music Education. Bugs Beddow's commitment to furthering his expertise in music education is evident in his pursuit of Master of Music Education credits at both Madonna University and the University of California-Bakerfield. His educational journey and unwavering passion for music not only shaped his career but also allowed him to inspire and educate others through his musical endeavors.
Bugs Beddow Musical Career Journey
Bugs Beddow's musical career journey is a testament to his versatility and dedication to music. Throughout his career, he wore many hats, both as an educator and a performer, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.
As an educator, Bugs shared his passion for music with students in various school systems, ranging from band and orchestra to choir and elementary music programs. His teaching journey took him to a diverse set of schools, including Leland Public Schools, Interlochen Arts Academy, New Morning School-Plymouth, Detroit Cornerstone Schools, Huron Valley School District, and finally, the West Bloomfield School District. His commitment extended beyond the classroom, as he also offered private music lessons at Marshall Music and the Orchard Lake School of Music. Bugs Beddow's dedication to music education was further evident in his involvement with his church's Praise group.
Simultaneously, Bugs pursued a vibrant career as a musician by night. He had the privilege of briefly performing with renowned big bands such as Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Don Ellis, and Stan Kenton after leaving college. However, he eventually embarked on his own jazz journey, establishing his jazz group and achieving national recognition with a best-selling jazz album in 1983. The album featured Grammy award-winning guitarist Earl Klugh and solidified his reputation as a jazz artist. His contributions to the genre were acknowledged when he was inducted into the Detroit Jazz Hall of Fame in 1987.
In 1992, Bugs Beddow took a musical pivot, transitioning into Rock & Soul music after a role in the movie "Hoffa" with Jack Nicholson. This shift marked a new phase in his career, leading to numerous accolades at the Detroit Music Awards. Bugs' classical training on the trombone added a unique dimension to his Rock & Soul performances, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
One notable highlight of his classical journey was the opportunity to perform the Rimsky-Korsakov Concerto for Trombone with the Orchard Lake Philharmonic, which further showcased his expertise in classical music. Bugs Beddow's musical career journey, marked by his dedication to education and his ability to seamlessly transition between musical genres, is a testament to his enduring passion and talent in the world of music.
Bugs Beddow Parents and Siblings
Bugs Beddow was born in Detroit in 1953 to his parents, William and Olga Beddow. While not much information is provided about his parents in the given text, it is clear that they played a significant role in shaping his early life and musical interests. They likely supported and encouraged his passion for music, which would go on to define much of his career.
Bugs Beddow also had an older sister named Kate, who had a notable influence on his musical journey. His earliest musical tastes were influenced by Kate, suggesting that she played a pivotal role in introducing him to the world of music. Their shared love for music led them to form a band together called "Smokey Burgandy" during their time at Groves High School in Birmingham, Michigan. This collaboration with his sister not only reflects the importance of family in his musical development but also highlights the close bond they shared through their shared musical endeavors.
Bugs Beddow Wife and Children
Bugs Beddow's personal life is a testament to his love for music and family. He met his wife, Kathy, in 1989, thanks to a mutual musician friend named Rick Swiecki. Their connection was clearly rooted in their shared passion for music. Bugs and Kathy decided to take their relationship to the next level, and in 1992, they exchanged vows in marriage.
Their union was blessed with the birth of their son, Joseph, in 1993. It's evident that the musical talent runs in the family, as Joseph also inherited his father's passion for music. He is proficient in playing the saxophone, piano, and drums, showcasing a multi-instrumental talent that mirrors Bugs' own diverse musical abilities.
Outside of his musical pursuits, Bugs Beddow values quality family time. He enjoys spending precious moments with Kathy and Joseph, cherishing the bond they share. Long walks with Winston, their family dog, offer them a chance to unwind and connect with nature. Bugs' dedication to his family and his enduring love for music, as expressed through his trombone and flute playing, provide a well-rounded picture of his life, where both his personal and musical passions coexist harmoniously.
Bugs Beddow Age
Bugs Beddow died at the age of 68. His journey from a young music enthusiast to a versatile musician, educator, and bandleader is a testament to his passion and dedication to music. Beddow's ability to excel in various musical genres, from jazz to Rock and soul, showcases his versatility and adaptability as an artist. Moreover, his commitment to music education and his role as an educator in multiple school systems underscore his desire to share his knowledge and inspire the next generation of musicians.
What Happened to Bugs Beddow? How did Bugs Beddow Die?
Bugs Beddow passed away on September 12, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. His valiant fight against the disease came to a peaceful conclusion on that somber day. While the specific details of his passing are not provided, it is clear that he faced his illness with bravery and determination, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that will forever be remembered in the music world and the close-knit Detroit community.
Bugs Beddow Death and Obituary - FAQs
Bugs Beddow was a renowned musician, bandleader, and music educator based in Detroit, known for his mastery of the trombone, flute, and vocals. He was a versatile artist with a diverse career in jazz and Rock & Soul music, and he also made significant contributions to music education.
Bugs Beddow passed away on September 12, 2023. He had been battling cancer, and his peaceful passing marked the end of his brave fight against the illness.
Bugs Beddow died as a result of his battle with cancer. He faced this illness with courage and determination before peacefully passing away on September 12, 2023.
Bugs Beddow's legacy is profound and enduring. He left a significant mark in the music world, both as a musician and an educator. His influence on the Detroit music scene, his contributions to jazz and Rock & Soul music, and his dedication to teaching will continue to be celebrated and remembered.
Bugs Beddow inspired others through his passion for music and his commitment to education. His journey from a young music enthusiast to a versatile musician and educator serves as a source of motivation for aspiring musicians. His ability to excel in different musical genres and his impact on students make him an inspirational figure in the music community.