Just Look Up

Thanksgiving 2008

Mom and Ross

From Glenn Marsala

Hi JoAnna,
I have been writing about Ross a lot, but don't know how to share it. I have also been compiling a collection of his songs--by him, performed by him, including some with me & noah--& have a set of tracks that covers most of what I have. I want to make it available to anyone who wants it. I can upload the tracks to the website, link to them in a blog, etc.

I want to just ask anyone who may have a track or tape or anything with Ross performing, if they could kindly send me a copy, or email me a copy, or something, I can add it to the compilation. I would love to hear anything I haven't heard already, & I'm making these tracks available because I'm sure anyone who has had the privilege of hearing songs of Ross would like to hear more. It's kink of like one of those boxsets, with outtakes, alternative takes, jams, informal stuff, etc.

I will post what I have in the next couple of days. I will be working on it in different formats, in case anyone might need it mailed to them? I'm open to suggestions and ideas, so if anyone has any, please let me know!

Long live Ross!

Please feel free to post any of this on the Ross blog, or wherever.
Thanks so much,
Glenn (ggsound@gmail.com)

From Connie Meerdink

I just don't even know what to say. Ross, we all loved you so much. I'm so sorry for what you went through, but I'm glad you're finally at peace.

From Traci Cahill

God bless you and keep you.

From Emily Warner Davis

JoAnna, You may or may not remember me. My name is Emily Davis you would have known me as Emily Warner. I remember playing with you and Ross when our mom's would get together. He was a gifted musician even when we were young. I am so sorry for your family's loss. The first song I ever heard him sing was with you and your mom and Jerri - I believe it went something like this "Step into the sunshine, Step out of the shade, This is the one time that you've got it made, And you can feel yourself smiling way down to your shoes, Step into the sunshine hear the great good news." My prayer is that Ross is smiling in the sunshine, free of illness, and singing with the Angels.
Fondly,
Emily

From Stephanie Gwilt

My sincerest condolences on Ross's passing. I was unable to move or speak for quite some time after hearing the terrible news. Heaven has a new angel, with a glorious voice to lead God's choirs. He was such a gentle soul who touched every life he came across, including mine. I have profound and lasting memories of his glorious voice, and wonderful sense of humor. My prayers are with you all.

From Cara Salvant

Old friend, you are much loved and will be dearly missed. Your music and the serenades always made me smile! I miss our antics at Houghton. You showed me James Taylor (which I still listen to) and enriched my life in so many ways that first year at Houghton. I know you are in good hands now and when I see you in heaven we will certainly share smiles again.

From Diane Jaquays

I am so sad to hear about this. I was just reading Joanna's comment about him stopping Dialysis and I was actually planning a trip down to visit this coming week. I guess it was just not soon enough. It really makes you think about the times when you put things off. Life really can be too short! So make time for th...ose who are important to you and don't hesitate. I am so upset at myself for missing the chance to see him this past summer, he was in town and I had once again not planned ahead in order to make it to see him.... and now it saddens me so very much that I was so selfish.

I have Ross's CD in my car and I hear him EVERYDAY! I think about him EVERYDAY! He was a special person and always will have a special place in my heart even though I know I didn't let him know enough.... I still think he knew how much I deeply cared for him! To all his family members - you are in my thoughts and prayers!

From Julie Cochran Terrell

I will always remember the times I spent with Ross! We were in a lot of the same clubs & activities. He had such a great attitude!! AND SO FUNNY!!! I have some very interesting pictures of him!!! One is of him wearing Amy Brown's bathing suit (over his clothes) on a Vocal Jazz retreat in Horseheads (We ALL thought, whe...re the hell is that!!!) Rest in peace. Please know you are thought of with joy & laughter!

From Micki Loosman

Ross used to sing "You Got What I Need" except he'd sing it in Spanish and it would always make me laugh. There is a commercial now where there is a group of people singing that song in a cab and it makes me think of him and I smile.

From Tracey Sanchez

Ross I will miss you dearly Hun you are in gods hands now no more pain and suffering i was sad to hear you were ill we kept in contact by emails i was glad we did i havenmt seen you since graduation. Your voice was so phenominal!!! I will think of you always when i listen to your music. I will never forget those beauti...ful blue eyes of yours you are very handsome Ross I will always love you , always have always will!!!!!! You were nice to everyone!!!!!!!! I will see you again someday Ross I LOVE YOU!!!! Love your good friend Tracy Condolences to Jerri and Joanna and family at this sad time

From Amy Brown Rose

It's been years since I've seen Ross, but I have so many fond memories of listening to music with him, jamming with him and singing with him...passions we both shared. What a great person he was...so caring and compassionate, hilarious and a beautiful soul. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

From Elizabeth Jenner

Everyone at Houghton loved him. He was and is very special.

From Scott Merrill

missed more than I have words to say...

From Laurie Manning Taylor

Funny thing, of everything I still remember your laugh.

From Jonathan McCarthy

Ross left us on Saturday night. The angels have my best friend to sing new songs of praise to Jesus. I am very envious of them.

From Cylinda (Rickert) Areno

In another lifetime there was a girl who heard a golden-haired boy sing and she swooned, as most people did when he sang and played his guitar.

I loved it when I was able to get you for “Stairway to Heaven” at dances.

I loved it when you’d stop picking at the guitar strings and listen to what I was saying.

I loved discovering Eric Clapton.

I loved when you sang the solo in “That Lonesome Road,” a song that we listen to all the time in our home.

I loved covering the tenor line so you could sing lead in “Naturally.”

I loved your smiles, both the quick grin and the slow spreader.

With years and perspective, I loved that you treated my feelings as tenderly as you could. I was very young and innocent; thank you for honoring that.

My dad, in a moment of incredible sensitivity and clarity for him, once said music is what keeps my soul alive. You are part of music to me, Ross, and enmeshed in my very soul forever.

I love you. Be at peace, my friend.

Cylinda (Rickert) Areno

At Home in Our Hearts

In Loving, Musical Memory

W. Ross Clark II went to join God's choir of Heavenly Angels on the evening of Saturday, December 19, 2009. (Actually, we're pretty sure he's leading the choir by now). Ross was born on March 17, 1974 and spent the majority of his 35 years making beautiful music and bringing joy to those around him. He also fought a nearly life-long battle with Type 1 diabetes with a strength and grace that serves as an inspiration to all who knew him.

Ross finally decided it was time to move on to a bigger and better life in the spirit. He leaves behind a loving circle of family and friends and a legacy of music that will live on forever. Those who wish to honor Ross' memory can do so by enjoying his music and making music in their own lives. Donations can be made in his memory to the American Diabetes Association.

A celebration of Ross' life, music, and spirit is being planned for Saturday March 20, 2010 in the Oneida, NY area. More details will be posted on this blog.

Forever at Home in Our Hearts...

From Bambi Niles

I send prayers for comfort, peace and love to you all.

God has blessed you richly with a family circle of love that I have had the opportunity to witness. Know that you have blessed me with this vision of God's love.

Bambi Niles

From Ma Buda

My Ross,

No matter where you are or where you go Ma Buda will always love you. I remember all the times you would sing for me. How many laughs we all shared together in that house. I miss it so. You have a gift from God and now you will be able to sing together in harmony. We all think we have it bad until news like this is placed before us. All that we have is love and the relationships that we share while we are here. You are precious. You are loved. We will sing together again.

Until tomorrow when we meet.... I love you,

Ma Buda

From Kristy Arthur Keelser

Dear Ross,

I am so very sad to hear that you are considering leaving us. It is my hope that you change your mind, but if you don't I will always look forward to seeing you in heaven. I take comfort in knowing that that is exactly were you will go. It has been a very long time, but I am sure that I am not alone in feeling that you are just one of those people that you couldn't possibly forget. I remember (and always will remember) our adventures at Houghton fondly. You were always a laugh a minute, with the most contagious smile in the world. You were the life of the party and had a way of bringing out the best in all of us - I am sure that this is still true. I have spoken to Jon McCarthy on a few occasions and he has shared stories with me about the kind of man that you grew up to be - and how you have struggled with your disease. I am proud of you for the person that I grew to know and love when I was young and the person that I am told you have become and been to others through your life along the way. I have been enjoying listening to your music on ROSSONGS. Wow Ross, what a talent! Haha and I knew you when :)

You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Now there is in store for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award you on that day - and not only to you, but to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4 7-8

Sending love and prayers to you my friend. I will see you on the streets of Gold.
xo
Kristy Arthur Keesler

From Janel Carello

I went to highschool with Ross - class of 92, he and Glenn Marsala were great friends and I was lucky to be in the same class w/ Ross and at times circle of friends. I remember one time he and Glenn were trying to jump over Glenn's car on Main Street. It was so long ago now, but one of my favorite memories of him. Please let him know that I always thought highly of him, to me he seemed a little quiet but I could see a really fun, awesome sense of humor. I knew Ross was talented but had no idea of his passion and musical talent. I will be sure to pass on and celebrate his life through music and his site. Please give him a big hug and much love from me. Much love and prayers and love to you and your family.

From Brian Fox

Ross there are a lot of people who are going to miss you. Your music has touched more people than you'll ever be able to realize. I'm glad I got to know you...

From Katrina Blanchard

ross- you are , as always, in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you the best during these times - and just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful gift of song and music you have shared with everyone. You are truly an inspiration to us all! love and miss you!

from Vicki Buda

Dear Ross,
I remember falling head over heals for you as a little tenage girl. Singing and writing music together at my house on Washington Avenue (how many nights did you spend the night and you only lived a few houses down!). My mother loved you like her own son. I remember singing together in vocal jazz (Iwanted to kiss mr welcher for pairing us together!)and I remember playing together in the snow. I also loved how you would just reappear in my life. Like when we saw each other at the Grand Old Opry. I remember you telling me that you thought we might get married one day..ha, ha...I bet you said that to all the girls. It saddens me that you are sick but I am glad to have this chance to say good bye. You and your music will live on in the hearts of all the heart's that you have touched- which includes mine! Peace be with you. By the way, I sing Moon Goddess Mary almost everyday to Sally's girls. It is the best lullaby. Thank you for the time we have shared. Thank you for your beautiful music. You have touched my life. Good night, my friend. Sleep tight.
With love,
Vicki Buda

From Molly Costello French

Ross was one of those people that lit up a room. He was kind and compassionate, and I was lucky to know him. High school was a blur, and I had my share of ups and downs, but he was someone that always tried to make it an up. Thank you Ross for sharing yourself with so many people. I wish you comfort and love. Blessings to you and your family.

From Craig Belusar

Ross,

I just wanted to let you know how saddened I am to hear about what you’re going through. I’ve always looked up to the way that you can make people feel, and the impact that you have on the lives of others. We all know about the musical talent that you possess, but to me the most outstanding quality of yours is the magical kind of impact that you have on people. You just seem to know how to make others feel good about themselves and have a good time. We all need a little Ross Clark in our lives to remind us of what is important.

You’ve given me a lot of good memories, from hanging around your house in Oneida as a teenager to sharing an apartment in Nashville in ’95. I’ll always remember the smile that you can put on anybody’s face. God Bless you Ross.

From Greg Urtz

It's been a long time. Lots of great memories at the Buda house, My Fair Lady, and chorus. It seems you've put your many talents to good use since those days. I'm so sorry to hear, and my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Thanks for the great memories and God Bless.

"Understand"

This song was written and dedicated to Ross by his friend from Houghton, Kevin Maguire. Ross felt it captured what he has been going through.

Thanks to Kevin and the many other musician friends who have been such an important part of Ross' life.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=PH03vglsNtM

From Brian Best

Time has faded my memories of OHS and everyone in it, but what I remember of you is simply this: you may have been the coolest guy at the place.

The picture of you that pops in to my head upon seeing your name is not one of dialysis machines and suffering but this: We were at one of those Vocal Jazz road trips - staying in some sort of cabins with other high schoolers. It was pretty dull; the biggest entertainment was a ping-pong table. I remember you there wearing a warm sweater that would look appropriate in a high-end Colorado ski lodge. You had the long straight blond hair framing a facial structure that some might have called "baby face" but that description undersold it. It was definitely more rock star than high school kid. Not only could you sing, but you had an acoustic guitar that you played almost effortlessly (at least it seemed that way to me the casual observer). To put this guy in a warm lodge on a cold day is one thing, but then surround him with the absolute prettiest girls from both our school and the other schools in attendance. They weren't just hanging around to sing, no, they were *in* to you and what made it even cooler was that you were singing and enjoying yourself as though it didn't matter if a single one of them was there or not. But probably the best part of all was - and this is true for the most legendary of cool people - that you never seemed to let it go to your head. Even though we were never tight enough to hang out outside of any of the school activities (and that's on me - I was a mess back then) you were always the nicest guy in the room; I can't recall you ever saying a bad word to or about anyone. Instead there was always a smile or a joke or a song.

Sometimes I hear the phrase "Women want to be with him, men want to BE him." Yeah, that's the Ross Clark that I remember.

I don't know the appropriate things to say to someone struggling with what you're facing right now so I'll just close with this: I'm sorry that recent years have not been kind to you. For my own selfishness, I wish that time and circumstance had afforded me the opportunity to know you better both then and in recent years. But more so I hope now for much love and comfort to you and your family.

From Sarah Babcock

Ross,
It has been far too long. I have always been a horrible correspondent and I wholeheartedly regret not making the time to catch up with you, especially given the ease of Facebook. Whenever I think of highschool, I think fondly of drama club since it was so instrumental in helping me overcome my shyness. You are in so many of my memories of drama rehearsals/performances. I remember you having incredible talent and such a warm personality.

'I Can See Clearly Now' has long been a favorite of mine for its inspirational lyrics, and your version is truly one of the most beautiful I’ve heard. I will always think of you when I hear that song. As your journey in this lifetime ends, may you go in peace. And, as you go into the sunshine, know that your life, and music, has touched so many.

Love, Sarah Babcock

From Beth Devan-Scholl

Ross, although I never sang with you, I had the pleasure of listening to you. You have blessed with an amazing talent. My memories of you are always with a smile and you and Kelly going to the prom ;o was awesome! I pray for you and your family, peace and no pain. Your work, albums, are amazing. Thank you for adding to my life. God's Blessings. Beth

I Can See Clearly Now

Click here for Ross' version of Johnny Nash's I Can See Clearly Now.

From Elizabeth Anne Pohley Spencer

Hi Ross,I wanted to let you know that I have tons of good memories of us during our high school years and reconnecting for a bit after our reunion back in 2002. I am sure I have forgotten many moments but, over the past few months on Facebook, it has been a good reminder seeing the pictures people have posted of all our adventures with choir. You are a superbly talented man and I am so grateful to been able to share the stage with you so long ago (remember how you were so good at scat singing and I would NEVER do it!!??). My hope for you is that you are beyond the fear and are without pain. Love, Elizabeth

From Kd Lamb

Dear Ross,

I had no idea. It saddens me to think that through all these years you were suffering. So many years passed by without a trace. I always wondered how you were/are. You always had a special place in my heart. I am so happy to have been able to touch base with you through Facebook. I don't know if you remember but I still have the heart shaped locket necklace you gave me with "love, Ross" engraved on it. I will always treasure it and keep it close. You are in my prayers ! Sweet kisses to you darling.

One Step at a Time
by Joseph Morris

In the morning with the journey all before us on the road,
It takes courage to begin, that is sure;
For the first step is the hardest, and we always think the load
May be greater than we've power to endure.
When the first mile lies behind us we can say, "Now that is done,
And the second and the third will soon be past."
So we trudge on through the noontime, and the setting of the sun
Finds us coming to our stopping-place at last.

When a man would climb a mountain he's appalled to see the length
Of the slope that reaches up into the sky;
But he starts, and with the climbing he will find he's gained the strength
To attain the very top, however high.
For the climbing of a mountain takes but one step at a time--
Who has courage to do that will reach the goal;
He will stand upon Life's summit and will know that joy sublime
Which is his alone who dares to prove his soul.

PS. Thank you for sharing a part of you through your music.

I always enjoyed hanging out with you and listening to you jam to Stevie Ray Vaughn and Van Halen's "Ice Cream Man."

Your voice and music is beautiful.

From Stephanie Shultz

Hey Ross
I know it's been forever since we've talked. In some ways a whole life time ago. It may seem strange to you that I am writing now, but I wanted to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Once upon a time I was not really able to tell people how much they meant to me, but back in that time you really touched me and I wanted you to know that. I especially remember celebrating our birthdays together during musical rehearsals. Although I think it was more like you sharing your birthday celebration with me. There was also a time when my closest friends called me "Step-on-me" and thought it was a funny play on my name, but you never did that. Instead you started calling me "The Stuff." So many little things that you did just because it was who you were that meant the world to a lonely, hurting girl who didn't think very much of herself. I've changed a lot since then, as I imagine we all have, figured some things out, learned how to like myself, and these day I'm actually a counselor (I know, the counselor part doesn't usually surprise people all that much). But when I think of you, I still very fondly remember the funny, talented, tender hearted boy who was so kind to me and made me laugh so often. I know there probably isn't much, but if I can do anything... Just know that you are in my prayers and that once upon a time you made a real difference in my life. Sending you my love.

Steph

From Jill Romano

Ross,
I wanted you to know that I am so honored that we have met in our life, you are such a wonderful and gifted person. One of my fondest memories of you is at graduation, I know that I have told you this many times but when you sang your solo I always got goose bumps! What an amazing voice you have. I want you to know that I will listen to your music and share with others so they can be just as blessed to hear you. Just know that I am thinking of you at this hard time and I know you will end up in a much better place with no suffering, and where you can continue to sing.
Your friend, Jill Romano

From Kevin Maguire

Please let him know that I love him. Words truly desert me. I am so sad. He was one of the people who inspired me to become more as a musician and as a person. His laughter and voice has brought joy to my life and to many others as well. This world will not be the same without him. Just let him know I love him and will miss dreaming big with him.

From Jen Mott

I am so sorry about what all of you are going through. I know Ross has battled this problem for so very long. I have a couple of his CD's on my iPod and listen to them often. As a fellow musician I have tried to support Ross through the years. I will try to get something in the mail to him today.

My love, thoughts and prayers to you, your family, and my friend Ross.

From Erin Mike Curro

Ross we love you and are praying for you. You have fought a good fight and may you be in peace. Your memory will live on through your music and many good memories of great friendship and I will miss you greatly. Peace be with you and your family at this sad time. We love you.

From Elizabeth Jenner

Ross, it's OK. All is OK. I hear you have chosen to stop fighting. I want to scream DON'T STOP FIGHTING. But either way, you are in God's hands. YOU HAVE NEVER BEEN ALONE. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. You have ALWAYS been in God's hands. The next time I see you, albeit on the other side, it will be beautiful. It will be beautifu...l. Do not be afraid. There is nothing to fear. You are in God's hands. They are good hands, kind hands, loving hands, strong hands. These hands will carry you from here to there, and will not let you go. All my love. All of it.

From Brett Murphy

I Loved making music with you.......although it was a short, it was cool! just the beginning, love you

From Jeff Welcher

I am sad beyond sad. Altho' I haven't seen Ross in way too long a time, I miss his humor and his voice.

Please tell him I love him.

most sincerely.

jw

From Drew Simchik

Dear Ross,

I try not to spend a lot of time thinking about high school -- it
wasn't my favorite time of my life (though it beat junior high). It
had its highlights, though, and today when I was thinking about them,
I remembered how many of them included you.

Most days I was mainly just looking forward to choir practice or drama
club rehearsal, and yep, there you were, making everything look easy.
I learned a lot from you, man...fact is, most of us really didn't have
any kind of a feel for jazz except you, but that's your element and we
all paid attention. Not trying to inflate your ego or anything but I
really don't know if those freaking horrible blue cardigans and the
mall concerts would have meant much of anything without you buoying it
all up and keeping the rest of us from looking like total clods.

Somewhere I still have that little tiny photo they took of us at
All-State at that resort hotel, when we were going to sing all that
amazing music and an ice storm knocked out the power and sent us all
home. Good times.

I'm not shocked in the least to see how much music you've been making
since then. Dude, I was listening to it today and I'm still a little
amazed that I know someone with that kind of talent. I mean, I did
some singing in college, and I do it now with our improv comedy group
(and karaoke of course), but you're not messing around. I keep telling
myself that someday I'm gonna pick up the guitar and start writing
songs and I keep not doing it. Someday I will, and it won't be a patch
on what you do, but you'll have inspired it.

I'm not just blowing smoke here...you were a pretty bright light for
me in high school, but I never really thought I could tell you that. I
really hope the past 17 years since graduation, even through the ice
storms, have been full of bright lights for you too.

I love you man.

From Jennifer Byrne Harp

I am so saddened thinking about this. My heart goes out to you and your family. I will have a little package priority mail to Ross on Monday! I just keep thinking about Ross' smile and his beautiful voice. You are in my thoughts.

From Andy Calmes

Tell Ross not to haunt me. I live alone and it would be really scary. That's all. He knows the rest. Thanks.

From Kim Howe

Soloman,

I heard the news from JoAnna that you're taking a big step. Man,
you've got balls! (by definition, partly what makes you a man...you
know, in the strictest sense). I've always admired you, and the
strength you're showing now...is off. the. freaking. CHARTS!

I think of you often. You were there for many of my highlights and
happy memories from high school years: Concert and Jazz Choir, DC
trip, Harry Jr. stylings at an Amy Green party (and most other
places), Mr. Big, Happy Birthday crooning to Vicki Buda, My Fair Lady
(the Flow!)...and of course Wayne's World. Magnificoooooo-o-o!

You helped me tap into new levels of creativity, and gave me guidance
and confidence to actually stand up and perform in front of people,
and I thank you for that. It helped me grow up in many ways. Plus,
it was always fun to hang out with someone who was an even bigger
wiseass than I was back then!

I call you the Solo-man, but you know you're never alone. I am lucky
to have had such a wonderful mentor and friend at a time in life when
everyone can sorely use one. You are a beautiful human being Ross,
and I thank you for all of the beautiful music you've made -- in both
the literal sense, and in simply improving this thing we call life. I
am honored to be a member of the Three White Boyz, and look forward to
recording that reunion tour album we always said we were going to make
together.

White Boyz 4 Life!!!

From Bob Canning

Ross, you will forever be the lead White Boy. You, Kim Howe and myself would sing our impromptu numbers at musical rehearsals or parties and we called ourselves The Three White Boyz. We were THAT cool. Mr. Big's "To Be With You" was our biggest hit. In fact, most of my memories of you have music involved in some way, which should come as no surprise. Vocal Jazz, the musicals, the way you would enthusiastically scat like Steven Tyler in "Rag Doll." My high school years would not have been the same without Ross Clark. Vocal Jazz trips, the musicals, and the hanging out afterwards... I remember one long walk from Caroline Reid's house to your house... My love of music might not be the same if not for Ross Clark. Your love was so joyous and pure. I envied your no-fear attack of scat solos in Vocal Jazz. I envied your hair, too. I'm glad that the Internet has helped keep us in touch, I only wish we would have had more opportunities to hang in person. You're forever in my heart, friend. Keep singing. Keep singing.

With Love

We will use this space to share the many wonderful messages we are receiving from those who have been part of Ross' life. We will also post updates on how he is feeling, what he is thinking, and the music that is coming from his heart as we share his last precious days with him.