TRIBUTES
Lawrence Trudeau
Lawrence Trudeau discovered Bluegrass music when he first attended a jam at Juliette Spear’s place in Penticton. He was “bit by the bluegrass bug”, as they would say, and it was full steam ahead.
He drove for many miles just so he could attend festivals and jams. He found his true passion in life! The love for the music and people set him on a path that would allow him to infuse a little bit of Bluegrass into everyone.
He was dedicated to his dream, and wanted only to share his newly-found ‘True Love’.
An invitational get-together was held at the Glen Mcquirter farm in Summerland. It was so successful that a group got together – which included, Gary and Barb Grimm, Roseanne Oliver and Lawrence – and they decided to put on a campout at the Summerland Rodeo Grounds in 1996.
He continued the yearly campout from then on, and became the expert and spirit of Bluegrass festivals, forging on with his vision.
He was awarded a plaque from the British Columbia Bluegrass Association, for the huge amount of effort he put forth to promote Bluegrass in the area.
In 2001, he formed a committee to ensure the festival would continue on, even without him. He was voted President of the board, and held that position proudly.
Lawrence passed away in 2004, at the age of 79. His quiet leadership will always be remembered. He gave freely of himself with a winning smile. He was the very essence of our Bluegrass family.
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“May his love of Bluegrass Music and his spirit live in our hearts for ever.”
