About Lugnut -- Patrick Malone
Jond I posted Barb, first I might add, at Pat's old e-mail which I believe she was using. If anyone has another contact,let me know. Thanks a very tired and emotional Ben. PS. Just after birth the fire alarm in the hospital (different building but loud and annoying all the same) went off-the wee man sat awake and relaxed all through the 45 mins of it. Eileen commented "he's heard your taste in music he probably finds that soothing........" |
I never knew Pat beyond the world of e-mail but we got chatting along on good terms some while before he got ill. Being a kind guy and knowing I collected Dylan stuff he sent me a rare Dylan mag from the 60's.....I guess that was his style. I always fancied a beer with him but it was never to be. Before he died I sent Pat a ultrasound scan of Eileen's and I unborn baby. He was well chuffed because we got chatting about names and I made him a promise. That promise entered into this world just little over three hours ago and he's called Benjamin Patrick Campbell, a lovely little guy,light but long with hands like shovels and the longest fingers you've ever seen. God bless you Pat and my beautiful baby and his mother. |
I am in the middle of moving to my new apartment. I will have to "Lugnut" my system once I get there. Ironically in the midst of not wanting to forget Pat, my older sister died on Monday. She was the perfect big sister who pullled my bacon form the fire more than once and asked for nothing in return. |
Hello Barb, While I have not kept up with this thread as much as I might have liked, I'm hoping that my words will somehow give you hope and comfort. It has been four months for you in your loss and four years for my wife and I since we lost our youngest son, Michael. We did not have the privilege to converse with Michael over his 22 years but we did get to know him through his expresions and outward personality that he expressed through sounds and body language. Obviously, you have had the good fortune to have heard directly from Pat how much he loved you and appreciated all that you guys had together. I know that you hold that dear and you will never lose it. I do envy you that, in the most beautiful way possible. I'm just curious here, but are you fortunate enough to have recordings of Pat? This seems so obvious but it is surprising how many people forget to do this. I appologize if this has been brought up before. We do have tapes of Michael, both audio and video, and it does get easier to enjoy these, with time. It is funny that I was also involved in drag racing for a time in my life. Vw's, Ha! Pat would probably have remembered, and laughed at, those days in the late 60's and 70's when one could, somehow, compete with a 4 cylinder rear-enigne car! Hey, I got mine to 11:40's at 110 mph before I gave it up. God bless and give you peace! |
. I think there might rarely be the day that goes by that something does not remind me of Pat and then I think of how all of it does not seem real. . Greg, Thanks for writing the post that got us talking about Pat again. I hope he somehow knows that we are all still thinking about him and missing him. . Barb & Amanda, I hope that somehow, your load is starting to get a bit lighter. . Pat, I hope you can hear us and feel us. . Larry . |
Hard to believe Pat has been gone four months as of today. I don't intend to speak for Barb, but I do know its been real difficult for her and Amanda. We had a nice talk a few weeks ago and slowly but surely, things are getting better for both of them. There are still some miles to go but the road is getting a little less bumpy. Gracie is a real cutie and keeps Barb on her toes, much like Pat did. I think Pat was harder on the furniture than Gracie is though. I want to pass on one more thing. Pat arranged for flowers to be delivered to Barb on this Valentine's day. It seems to me that Pat might be like Elvis, never really gone and there might even be an occasional sighting now and then in a blues bar in Chicago or maybe at a Neil Young concert in Seattle. Maybe. |
Barb, It was nice of you to drop by and share your feelings with us. It is always an emotional roller coaster to go through the Holidays without having loved ones around who have recently passed away. It was rough for me too because my favorite uncle passed away on December 29th 2004, my dad passed April 2, 2005 and then Patrick on November 10th. Stepping into 2006 required being with loved ones. Thank you for the kind words about the book and afghan. The picture of you holding it by the Christmas tree is priceless. Also, the wonderful Christmas card, pictures and special thank you. You are very welcome and it was our pleasure to do these things for you. Remember to wrap youself in the afghan to feel the warmth and love that has been sent to you by so many people I hope you won’t mind but I thought I would share what we wrote in the card that accompanied the afghan with the Audiogon community. Memorial Afghan for Barb Made by Gina Bruno The center purple block / heart (color chosen due to Pat’s Purple Haze listening room) represents the soul and spirit of Patrick “Lugnut” Malone. The surrounding hearts are all the people who shared their own thoughts, feelings, prayers, stories, caring and love for Pat. The purple and white threads on the outside boarder represent the Audiogon Community who have read this thread and learned so much about Lugnut, fellow Audiogoners, and themselves as they traveled with him during the last stage of his life’s journey here on Earth. The intertwined colors symbolize how Pat’s thoughts and feelings, communicated via postings, Emails, and telephone calls, has created a legacy and community that surrounds and supports each other, friends and, especially Barb, Amanda and the rest of the Malone family. Patrick “Lugnut” Malone certainly touched many hearts by his grace, humor, courage, honesty, sharing and caring nature, and has made each of us infinitely richer for knowing him.” Peace, love and blessings, Lou & Gina Bruno |
Hi Everyone - Last night I was finally able to bring myself back to this thread. As I read the words my tears began to cover the keyboard. Then Gracie jumped into my lap, licked by face with kisses and then ran off with my wet kleenex to chew it up into a million white pieces! That was when I decided that I had to wait until this morning to respond. Every morning when I got up Pat would already be typing vigorously on the computer to all this buddies. But he would look up at me and say "Have I told you today that you are pretty?" and I would say "Have I told YOU today that I love you?" We never missed a day all last year while he was sick. Now Gracie and I have the same routine. First of all. Thank you so much for all the kind words and well wishes for the holidays on this thread and all the beautiful cards I received in the mail and of course all of the phone calls and messages. And a very special thank you to Lou and Gina for the beautiful package containing the hard copy book of this thread (all 265 pages!!) along with several CDr copies and a beautiful afghan for me (which will be displayed in the music room) and a blanket for Amanda created and made by Gina. Thank you for honoring Pat's request - we will cherish these things forever. I cannot even begin to explain in words how difficult the grieving has been for me since Pat passed away. When a person grieves the loss of a loved one - it is your own personal experience. That's when you turn to the Lord and remember "Footprints in the Sand." Recently some dear friends and I celebrated our wedding anniversary with a small get-together in our home. Pat always cherished companionship and good conversation. It was a very nice rememberance. These last few days have been very sad for me though because I did not want to leave 2005 and start a New Year without Pat. But I rose to the occasion and carried those 32 years of memories with me as I stepped into the year 2006. Then I listened to "Prairie Wind" and reflected. There is still lots of frozen puppy poop in the back yard and the house is turning into a barn since I let the outdoor cat "Lugnut" back in the house with Gracie and I (Pat would not approve). But I am looking forward to going to Sacramento next weekend to visit Howard and Gina (now Pat would approve). Gracie will stay at our friend's farm where she was born and be with her extended family for lots of doggy fun. I am really glad that Kirsten joined this thread and that you all have been so gracious to her. I know that would put a great big smile of Pat's face! We were forunate to have found her and built a special relationship with the time that we all had together. We will continue to remain close. Happy New Year to everyone on Audiogon and thank you so much for keeping Pat's memory alive and honoring his life with music. God Blesses us all - Barb PS - I have a few of Pat's T-shirts left (plain colors XL). Let me know if you are interested. http://www.audiointelligent.com/stuff/afgan.jpg |
Kirsten: Thank you for your participation in this thread and for the account your holiday. Your daughter sounds adorable. Since you asked for seasonal music, I'll give you my favorite: "Our Heart's Joy" by Chanticleer, an outstanding male vocal group based in San Francisco. The DVD of their Christmas concert at the Met in New York is even better. The best way to get their recordings is via their web. Chris |
I spoke with Barb on Christmas Day for quite a while. Her new puppy gives her great companionship and keeps her busy. It sounds like they have developed a comfortable routine. Barb has been working long hours at the post office due to the holiday rush, I'm sure, but she had a nice long weekend off to relax for Christmas. I believe it is hard for her to read through these posts, but I know she definitely feels the love and caring that comes from every one of you. I am grateful to those who have responded to my intrusion on this thread with kind and encouraging words. We had a nice weekend. We spent Christmas Eve with Aric's family and Christmas afternoon with mine. But the best part of the weekend was finding out that a $3 makeup brush would be out daughter's favorite gift, beating out the Bike, stuffed animals, clothes, tub toys, and other stuff people feel is necessary for a 30-month-old. In second place was Play Dough. She's such a good kid. We hope we do the right thing by her everyday, but mostly we wing it and she's still a joy. I hope all of you had a wonderful holiday. I truely believe that it's the little things that matter most. Sunday she said "Mewwy Kissmast, Mommy. It'd baby Jesus birfday!" I don't know for sure that she knew what it meant, but it was nice to hear. At least she didn't come at me with a list of presents she wanted but didn't get. That'll happen next year!! Any good ideas for holiday music?? Kirsten |
Speaking of T-shirts, one of the items of Pat's that Barb was kind enough to send me turns out not to fit well enough for me to wear. It's a genuine traditional-style Levi's jean jacket, size 46R and in great shape, with 2 embroidered patches ironed and sewn on, one each above the left and right chest pockets, reflective of Pat's race car hobby: the "Nova" logo and the "Chevy II" logo. If anybody's interested, the right size, not a Mopar or Fomoco kinda guy or gal, and would value the memento, please contact me (Alex). Have a nice holiday Barb and everybody! |
with the arrival of Christmas eve, I tend to look to my blessings and the people who have entered my life over the past year. This has been a bitter sweet year. I have found two local audio friends, and met quite a few e-friends. I was fortunate enough to re-discover my extended family this summer as we had a family reunion for the first time in 25 years. My family and my local friends continue to be my purpose to live, and I was lucky enough to add another important piece to my life. I am spending four hours a week volunteering in the Architectural drafting program at the high school(the same program that I got my start) No one has influenced 2005 as greatly as Pat, Barb and now Kirsten. My faith has always been strong, but Pat was witness to the love we all share within our souls. I know this is hard Barb, you do not walk it alone however. So much love and honesty was discovered from your selfless journey. In reflection of 2005, your family has no higher place in my heart. I love you Bard, Kirsten and Pat. May Pat's love encompass us all this holiday, for in 2005, Pat is home. His spirit will live forever in our heart, and his love is in our souls. Thank you Pat for an amazing year! jd |
Dear Barb and Kirsten and all of the Malone extended family, I hope you all have a Merry Christmas although I imagine this holiday will be especially hard. Pat is now part of the light in the star on our Xmas trees. May he forever shine. Thank you for letting us celebrate his life and passing. All good things, J.SONIC |
Kirsten, thanks for being here. I have enjoyed your input. I'm sure it's hard for Barb in general, and specifically to maintain a presence here. I got a kick out of thread earlier when you mentioned the Eleanor McEvoy. I wasn't sure if Pat liked the LP but appearently it went over okay. I had the pleasure to talk with Pat a lot of times before his passing. We talked about Barb, and his concerns for her, and about his beloved daughters. He told me he was proud of you for your maturity and independence. I'm not trying to blow smoke, or whatever since I doubt that I will ever meet you, but I want to be sure you know what he shared with me. All of us take regrets to our graves, but we also have a heart full of things about which we take a lot of pride and joy. Pat took pride in the fact of who you are. PS and I'm glad you're here sharing with us. |
Sunday, the 18th,Barb had an open house to celebrate their 32nd wedding anniversary and to celebrate Pat. It was a great time--good food, good friends and good music. Gracie the pup and Scott the grandson were the highlights of the afternoon. I think Barb is doing well and I know she appreciates all of your support. Bill |
Growing up, my brother would queue up songs for me on his stereo, have me sit in what you would call the "Sweet Spot" and tell me to close my eyes and listen. I loved that. The base would thump in my chest, stronger then my heartbeat. The high guitar and vocal parts were nearly painful, but just perfect. At the end of a song I'd just sit there, still feeling it, silent. Then we'd laugh at being silly. But life gets in the way. I didn't meet Pat until I was 20 years old. Our story is sad, because neither one of us really got to know the other properly when we had the time. And in the end, we were willing but there just wasn't enough time. So, recently he introduced me to artists I'd never heard of before like David Roth, Cowboy Junkies, and Eleanor McEvoy and we were pleasantly surprised to find that we already liked many of the same artists such as Neil Yound and Eva Casady. Pat respected my unreasonably strong, long-term, undying love affair with Billy Joel, probably not an easy thing for him to do! Pat had other influences in my life, and without knowing it, he let me see my own strengths. We look a lot alike, especially when he was heavier and I was skinnier! We have similar mannerisms. But he went after his interests with such a passion! I'm more laid-back about things. If something gives me pleasure enough the way it is then I don't question it or try to improve it much. He was the type of person to learn it, master it, and advise others on it with the utmost authority. He was so knowledgable about so many things! I miss him, but mostly I miss the Pat I'll never really know. Clearly, he was special to many people for many different reasons. I'm so thankful that, through Pat, I've been lucky enough to get to know Barb. She's really something! So, to specifically to answer your question: I have an appreciation for music, and can say with experience that music heard properly is so different then just flipping on the radio. But I have only old childhood records and record player. The rest is CD's. My stereo was the best we could justify at the time, but is sadly out of date. I have many cd's, and often put in 5 to the changer and shuffle play. I enjoy it, I sing with it, I dance to it with Aidyn. I don't know anything about the science of it. Kirsten |
Hi Everybody, Since we are getting close to a 1,000 posts, I thought I would bump it up a little. My wife and I sent Barb and her family a hard copy of this thread along with six cdR copies and a memorial afghan representing our interpretation of this tread and Pat. We do plan on sending her updates from time to time as long as this thread continues to have life. For everyone who reads and contributes to this thread may you have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyous Kwanzaa, Happy Festivas,Â…and a safe Happy New Year's celebration. L |
Pat might've moderated his stance on CD somewhat since '91 -- thanks in part, it seems, to that relatively modest mid-90's vintage player I sent him over the summer, a purely unintentional byproduct but one that I did get a kick out of. (My own vinyl collection dwarfs my digital one, but I tend to be agnostic on the sonic advantage issue either way, believing mastering quality trumps format if the hardware is comparable.) Since you and Pat may not have had what you'd call a close relationship, what I said about gleaning insight from his words in this thread probably goes double. There are always dimensions to people we all may not get to see enough of as children regarding parents. As for myself, I think I had more intaction with Pat and knew him better from this one thread than I did outside of it. BTW, do you consider yourself an audiophile? If so -- or also if not -- what role in that did Pat play for you? |
Thank you for your kind replies. On a whole, you all probably knew Pat better then I did. But that's a long story. Reading this thread gives me vivid insite to him that is so important to me. Eventually, I'll show it to Aidyn and she'll see how special her Grandpa Pat was, aside from the personal stories I could tell her. I remember visiting Pat and Barb in the fall of 1991 and having a long debate with Pat about the merits of CD's vs. vinyl. I was young and thought I knew it all, but you all know who was really right! Over the years he had many passions, but along side everyone of them was his deep appreciation for music. Pat and I didn't have enough time. Since I am a cancer survivor (Hodgkins Lymphoma stage 2b ten years ago), he suffered through my darkest fear, a recurrance. And he did it with grace and peace and good humor. His death was sad and unfair and humbling. We should all be able to go with dignity. Pat may be gone, but Barb is a such a special person and I'm glad we've remained friends. I'm hoping she comes to visit us in Sioux Falls in the spring or summer, after we've thawed out a little. It's cold here today! I know Aidyn will be lucky to get to spend more time with Grandma Barb! Thanks again for your kind words. Please feel free to share stories about Pat with me. I'd love to hear more about him from people who really treasured him as a person and as a audio resource. Thanks. Kirsten |
Pleased to meet you Kirsten, and thank you! You're nice to talk about what the rest of us wrote, but I bet it's what your Dad had to say on his situation and thoughts that will endure and illuminate for you over time. If you ask me, I think your Pops was one heck of a cool dude in addition to being your father :-) |
When Pat and I spoke last April, the first thing he wanted me to do was read this thread. He wanted me to write a book on the inherent goodness of mankind, as shown to him by you all. He was honored to be a friend to you and I know he found the technical aspects of this thread important, as music was in his soul. I am Kirsten, Pat's daughter in South Dakota. I get speechless when I read what you all say about Pat. Barb is indeed a very special person, as you all know. He was blessed to have her at his side at the end. We should all be so lucky to pass away enveloped by such a strong love. I just thought you should know that this thread touches far-away people, too. Thank you. |
Maybe it's the timing... I get the strangest feeling looking at that picture of Pat and Barb. It's as though Pat's not here, but he's not gone either, and somehow he's looking out for... for me??! Now that is a strange thought but I'm keeping it. I guess it's no different from the feeling I got from reading his thread, anyway, day by day. Thank you so much for the picture, Barb, and God bless. |
