Jan “Buzz” Burgess Fowler, 61, of Phoenix, AZ passed away Monday, December 7, 2015 at his home. Born March 2, 1954 in Odenton, MD, Buzz was the son of Merle Ruby Daisy Emberlain and the late Wilbert Carroll Fowler. Buzz was passionate about giving back to his community. He was active with helping the VAContinue Reading
Jan “Buzz” Burgess Fowler, 61, of Phoenix, AZ passed away Monday, December 7, 2015 at his home.
Born March 2, 1954 in Odenton, MD, Buzz was the son of Merle Ruby Daisy Emberlain and the late Wilbert Carroll Fowler. Buzz was passionate about giving back to his community. He was active with helping the VA and St. Mary’s Food Bank in Phoenix where he was a Contributor at Large. He was also a board member of the Phoenix Blues Society and the Phoenix Toastmasters. Buzz also loved music and leaves behind a legacy of jam sessions and his band Toolshed where he was known as “Buzzsaw” and played the harmonica.
Including his mother, Buzz is survived by his son, John Brian Fowler; daughter, Corinne Anne Jose and her husband, Beny; five siblings, Valiant Fowler, Christopher Fowler and his wife, Wanita, Aleta Ridgeway, Guy Fowler, and Tobias Fowler; and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held from 6 to 8pm Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 W. Main St., Newark, DE 19711. A service will be held in Buzz’s honor at 11:30am Wednesday, December 23, 2015 also at the funeral home, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 1pm. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made payable to St. Mary’s Food Bank and sent in care of the funeral home.
Laura
left a message on January 14, 2016:
Coach Buzz, I will always be grateful that in the fall of 2014 you were willing to begin harmonica lessons for my 6 year old. Without our weekly lessons we are at a loss in your talents and spirit. You were professional, patient, indeed musically inclined, truly involved in many things, kind and understanding. With you she had her first ever music recital in November 2015 after a year of almost weekly lessons. We are fortunate that we can enjoy this memory of your accomplishment. You are missed.
Bob Probst
left a message on January 5, 2016:
It doesn’t surprise me one bit that ‘Buzz’ was so well-loved by all the folks in Arizona. Growing up in Dover, Delaware, he was a great friend to me back in the hazy, crazy 1970s, and the more I got to know him, the more I realized what a kind and generous guy he truly was. My friendship with him grew closer when we wound up living in Memphis, Tennessee for a time (traveling to parts unknown was second-nature to many of us back then). I was only 17 at the time, and having lost my mother to a tragic, untimely death the year before, I had become a very mixed-up, aimless kid. Jan, along with two other great buddies from Delaware (Rick and John), took me into their Memphis home and made me feel wanted at a time when I needed it the most. They had to put up with a lot from me, but they always did it with patient guidance and good humor. I’m forever grateful, not just for all the fun we had, but for all the care and selfless support I was given. Jan was a true-blue friend, someone who gave 100% of himself to anyone fortunate enough to have known him. It’s also wonderful to see how successful he was in the Arizona music scene. Music was always a great passion of his, and it’s so cool to know how much his talent and spirit was appreciated. Buzz, I will never forget all the fun, rock and rolling times we had back in the day, nor will I ever forget that big, warm grin of yours. I’ll really miss you, brother.
Michael Salazar
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz, I will miss you. Fellow musician and all around nice guy. May God rest your soul.
Betty Vachon & Matty Spinelli
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz, Betty and I feel very lucky to have been able to call you friend. We never met anyone that was more supportive or caring as you. We miss you more than words can ever say. You will live in our hearts always.
Jeff Brydle
left a message on December 31, 2015:
A true Gentleman. He will be missed but I'm a little miffed he made it to Heaven before I did. Lucky man he is. RIP Buzzman.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Hutch
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Phoenix's blues mistro has left the building. We will keep your work alive my friend. Lovelovelove !
Mark Spoerner
left a message on December 31, 2015:
I feel so incredibly fortunate to have known you Buzz. You were so encouraging, supportive, giving and selfless. Thank you for being here as long as you were. You will be missed more than you could have ever imagined. Mark "Mojo Lens" Spoerner
Jane & Darryl Porras
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz, You will forever be in our hearts and minds. You touched so many lives. We are fortunate to have known you and we are grateful for our friendship. You are missed so much!
Kari Maschino
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz had such an awesome energy! Being on stage with him was like snuggling with your favorite blanket! The Blues Dinosaurs loved when he would play out with us for gigs; so talented & fun. He had such a kind soul and genuinely helped and encouraged musicians of all skill levels to jump in and play. He facilitated new friendships and the forming of many bands and events. I personally cannot thank him enough for dragging me back to the stage after 7 months where I had decided I was never going to sing again after my guitarist of 19 years passed in 2014. He believed in everyone and that needed to share their talent. He really inspired so many. I will definitely miss him!
Laurie Garber
left a message on December 23, 2015:
Buzz was my wonderful and special friend for the last 13 years. He was the most caring and compassionate soul, the best friend to all he knew. His music was his passion and heart and he touched everyone he knew. My sincere condolences to his family, he will be so missed. I am so thankful for all the special times and memories we shared. I will love you always Buzz.
Mike & Aleida Howard
left a message on December 23, 2015:
Buzz we will miss you so much and your smiling face always. Our gratitude to you for always be so giving to the community and all your fellow musicians you brought together. You are our jewel here in the desert. Mike and Aleida Howard
Mickey Price
left a message on December 23, 2015:
The first time I met Buzz I felt like I reconnected with an old friend. He was so affirming to newbies and pros at jam sessions. He was passionate about putting people together through music. He always put others first. We have been blessed to have Buzz Fowler in our lives.
Jean Case
left a message on December 21, 2015:
I am so sorry for all of Buzzs family at the loss of such a sweet and wonderful man. We who had the blessing of his friendship are all grieving with you. He will always be remembered as my dear friend and harmonica teacher for the last 1 1/2 years. I know he loved his family and talked about all of you to me during and after our lesson. He can never be replaced in our hearts and our prayers go out to all of you.
- Patricia Myers
left a message on December 21, 2015:
Buzz was gracious and generous to everyone. A talented musician, leading regular jam sessions, he also had a strong career in the business world. He was the Phoenix Blues Society's "web-guy" to keep that site up and current. He will be missed and remembered by many. I will post a tribute to Buzz within the next few days on my all-AZ music website: www.MusicSceneAZ.com
Robin Glanden
left a message on December 21, 2015:
I knew Jan years ago in the 1970s. I didn't see him for a long time, but then about 10 years ago we got together for lunch when he visited Delaware. We had a fun and happy reunion. He was always a nice guy and I'm sorry to hear that he passed so young. Blessings for his spirit; peace and love to his family.
Dennis Tucker
left a message on December 20, 2015:
A good man with a legacy of caring. Rest in peace, Buzz. My condolences to friends and family.
bill & Lori Scherwenka
left a message on December 20, 2015:
Buzz's smiling face at the blues events will be missed; truly the area music scene lost a true friend
lora harper
left a message on December 20, 2015:
I knew Jan when I went to high school in 1973.I met him at the blue hen mall. I would say our souls were much alike . He listened to my poetry and I shared my deepest thoughts and feelings with him. Arizona always called to him. Our lives took different paths but I thought of him many times over the years. He had a kind and gentle soul and I wish to convey my deepest sympathies to his family. Heaven will be brighter with his spirit and may he rest easy in the arms of the angels. my deepest sympathies lora
Marie Karner
left a message on December 20, 2015:
I've never met anyone who was as giving of himself as Buzz. He made the Phoenix blues jam scene what it was. He was so selfless and dedicated. There are no words to describe how much he will be missed.
Dan Rutland
left a message on December 20, 2015:
Buzz, I only knew you for 5 years, but you were one of the best friends I've ever had. What makes it even better is that everyone who had the pleasure to know you felt the same way. I miss you brother. RIP an Rutland, Scottsdale
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Armando Amarillas
left a message on December 19, 2015:
RIP Buzz. I'm going to miss our "harmonica" talk. Thank you for making Mr feel welcomed at the blues name. Always a gentleman.
Bob Weir
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Imagine playing the harmonica with BB King, Muddy Waters, Jimi Hendrix, SRV. Wow Heavens got a heck of a band.
chuck m
left a message on December 19, 2015:
BUZZ WAS ALWAYS HELPFUL & KIND. HE WAS AWAYS WILLING HELP. HE WOULD COME OUT AND SEE THE BAND HANG OUT AND HAVE LOTS OF LAUGHS. I REMEMBER WHEN HE GOT HIS NEW PHONE THE THING WAS SO BIG, WE HAD FUN PLAYING WITH IT, GOING TO MISS YOU BUZZ PEACE GOD BLESS
John Klima
left a message on December 19, 2015:
I had only met Buzz a few times at Jam Sessions. He was so friendly, welcoming and encouraging to a newbie harp player. I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was a great guy. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Chazz Pratt
left a message on December 19, 2015:
The day you met Buzz, it seemed as though you've known him for ages. He had that way of instantly connecting with anyone and everyone. He was a true, selfless servant - often seen putting other's needs before his own with an encouraging word or event designed to help another. I'm reminded of his recent St. Mary's Food Bank event and the time he spent walking me through the songs, and sharing his excitement in putting together something special for all. But, each week, Buzz not only had the opportunity to play in his Band, he created a community of Musicians that came together to make Music - oftentimes playing together for the first time. These same Musicians will never forget him, and neither will those Blues Fans who witnessed Buzz creating a fun time for all. He had a positive impact on us all! Sincere condolences and prayers to the Family & Friends of Buzz Fowler.
MF Harris
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Miss you Buzz. Love, MFH
Sheryl Hand
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Buzz was one of a kind with the biggest and kindest heart. You made an impact on my life. You will be greatly missed. I am so lucky to have been touched by his friendship. Rest in Peace sweet Buzz.
Patrick Langan
left a message on December 19, 2015:
The world was a better place with Buzz in it. Great Human Being. God Speed Buzz!
Jo Cavanagh
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Only knew Buzz for 2 years, with the Blues Meet-up group.....Buzz was SO welcoming to me, a " newbie " to AZ, and made me feel as though I was an old friend....Buzz will greatly missed !! Jo Cavanagh
John Ryden
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Always in our hearts
WCMark
left a message on December 19, 2015:
You will be with us always )-
Scott Halvorsen
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Buzz was a good friend and a great guy with a big heart. He will be greatly missed by many. I was blessed to know him. Rest In Peace buddy.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Laura
left a message on January 14, 2016:
Coach Buzz, I will always be grateful that in the fall of 2014 you were willing to begin harmonica lessons for my 6 year old. Without our weekly lessons we are at a loss in your talents and spirit. You were professional, patient, indeed musically inclined, truly involved in many things, kind and understanding. With you she had her first ever music recital in November 2015 after a year of almost weekly lessons. We are fortunate that we can enjoy this memory of your accomplishment. You are missed.
Bob Probst
left a message on January 5, 2016:
It doesn’t surprise me one bit that ‘Buzz’ was so well-loved by all the folks in Arizona. Growing up in Dover, Delaware, he was a great friend to me back in the hazy, crazy 1970s, and the more I got to know him, the more I realized what a kind and generous guy he truly was. My friendship with him grew closer when we wound up living in Memphis, Tennessee for a time (traveling to parts unknown was second-nature to many of us back then). I was only 17 at the time, and having lost my mother to a tragic, untimely death the year before, I had become a very mixed-up, aimless kid. Jan, along with two other great buddies from Delaware (Rick and John), took me into their Memphis home and made me feel wanted at a time when I needed it the most. They had to put up with a lot from me, but they always did it with patient guidance and good humor. I’m forever grateful, not just for all the fun we had, but for all the care and selfless support I was given. Jan was a true-blue friend, someone who gave 100% of himself to anyone fortunate enough to have known him. It’s also wonderful to see how successful he was in the Arizona music scene. Music was always a great passion of his, and it’s so cool to know how much his talent and spirit was appreciated. Buzz, I will never forget all the fun, rock and rolling times we had back in the day, nor will I ever forget that big, warm grin of yours. I’ll really miss you, brother.
Michael Salazar
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz, I will miss you. Fellow musician and all around nice guy. May God rest your soul.
Betty Vachon & Matty Spinelli
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz, Betty and I feel very lucky to have been able to call you friend. We never met anyone that was more supportive or caring as you. We miss you more than words can ever say. You will live in our hearts always.
Jeff Brydle
left a message on December 31, 2015:
A true Gentleman. He will be missed but I'm a little miffed he made it to Heaven before I did. Lucky man he is. RIP Buzzman.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Hutch
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Phoenix's blues mistro has left the building. We will keep your work alive my friend. Lovelovelove !
Mark Spoerner
left a message on December 31, 2015:
I feel so incredibly fortunate to have known you Buzz. You were so encouraging, supportive, giving and selfless. Thank you for being here as long as you were. You will be missed more than you could have ever imagined. Mark "Mojo Lens" Spoerner
Jane & Darryl Porras
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz, You will forever be in our hearts and minds. You touched so many lives. We are fortunate to have known you and we are grateful for our friendship. You are missed so much!
Kari Maschino
left a message on December 31, 2015:
Buzz had such an awesome energy! Being on stage with him was like snuggling with your favorite blanket! The Blues Dinosaurs loved when he would play out with us for gigs; so talented & fun. He had such a kind soul and genuinely helped and encouraged musicians of all skill levels to jump in and play. He facilitated new friendships and the forming of many bands and events. I personally cannot thank him enough for dragging me back to the stage after 7 months where I had decided I was never going to sing again after my guitarist of 19 years passed in 2014. He believed in everyone and that needed to share their talent. He really inspired so many. I will definitely miss him!
Laurie Garber
left a message on December 23, 2015:
Buzz was my wonderful and special friend for the last 13 years. He was the most caring and compassionate soul, the best friend to all he knew. His music was his passion and heart and he touched everyone he knew. My sincere condolences to his family, he will be so missed. I am so thankful for all the special times and memories we shared. I will love you always Buzz.
Mike & Aleida Howard
left a message on December 23, 2015:
Buzz we will miss you so much and your smiling face always. Our gratitude to you for always be so giving to the community and all your fellow musicians you brought together. You are our jewel here in the desert. Mike and Aleida Howard
Mickey Price
left a message on December 23, 2015:
The first time I met Buzz I felt like I reconnected with an old friend. He was so affirming to newbies and pros at jam sessions. He was passionate about putting people together through music. He always put others first. We have been blessed to have Buzz Fowler in our lives.
Jean Case
left a message on December 21, 2015:
I am so sorry for all of Buzzs family at the loss of such a sweet and wonderful man. We who had the blessing of his friendship are all grieving with you. He will always be remembered as my dear friend and harmonica teacher for the last 1 1/2 years. I know he loved his family and talked about all of you to me during and after our lesson. He can never be replaced in our hearts and our prayers go out to all of you.
- Patricia Myers
left a message on December 21, 2015:
Buzz was gracious and generous to everyone. A talented musician, leading regular jam sessions, he also had a strong career in the business world. He was the Phoenix Blues Society's "web-guy" to keep that site up and current. He will be missed and remembered by many. I will post a tribute to Buzz within the next few days on my all-AZ music website: www.MusicSceneAZ.com
Robin Glanden
left a message on December 21, 2015:
I knew Jan years ago in the 1970s. I didn't see him for a long time, but then about 10 years ago we got together for lunch when he visited Delaware. We had a fun and happy reunion. He was always a nice guy and I'm sorry to hear that he passed so young. Blessings for his spirit; peace and love to his family.
Dennis Tucker
left a message on December 20, 2015:
A good man with a legacy of caring. Rest in peace, Buzz. My condolences to friends and family.
bill & Lori Scherwenka
left a message on December 20, 2015:
Buzz's smiling face at the blues events will be missed; truly the area music scene lost a true friend
lora harper
left a message on December 20, 2015:
I knew Jan when I went to high school in 1973.I met him at the blue hen mall. I would say our souls were much alike . He listened to my poetry and I shared my deepest thoughts and feelings with him. Arizona always called to him. Our lives took different paths but I thought of him many times over the years. He had a kind and gentle soul and I wish to convey my deepest sympathies to his family. Heaven will be brighter with his spirit and may he rest easy in the arms of the angels. my deepest sympathies lora
Marie Karner
left a message on December 20, 2015:
I've never met anyone who was as giving of himself as Buzz. He made the Phoenix blues jam scene what it was. He was so selfless and dedicated. There are no words to describe how much he will be missed.
Dan Rutland
left a message on December 20, 2015:
Buzz, I only knew you for 5 years, but you were one of the best friends I've ever had. What makes it even better is that everyone who had the pleasure to know you felt the same way. I miss you brother. RIP an Rutland, Scottsdale
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Armando Amarillas
left a message on December 19, 2015:
RIP Buzz. I'm going to miss our "harmonica" talk. Thank you for making Mr feel welcomed at the blues name. Always a gentleman.
Bob Weir
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Imagine playing the harmonica with BB King, Muddy Waters, Jimi Hendrix, SRV. Wow Heavens got a heck of a band.
chuck m
left a message on December 19, 2015:
BUZZ WAS ALWAYS HELPFUL & KIND. HE WAS AWAYS WILLING HELP. HE WOULD COME OUT AND SEE THE BAND HANG OUT AND HAVE LOTS OF LAUGHS. I REMEMBER WHEN HE GOT HIS NEW PHONE THE THING WAS SO BIG, WE HAD FUN PLAYING WITH IT, GOING TO MISS YOU BUZZ PEACE GOD BLESS
John Klima
left a message on December 19, 2015:
I had only met Buzz a few times at Jam Sessions. He was so friendly, welcoming and encouraging to a newbie harp player. I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was a great guy. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Chazz Pratt
left a message on December 19, 2015:
The day you met Buzz, it seemed as though you've known him for ages. He had that way of instantly connecting with anyone and everyone. He was a true, selfless servant - often seen putting other's needs before his own with an encouraging word or event designed to help another. I'm reminded of his recent St. Mary's Food Bank event and the time he spent walking me through the songs, and sharing his excitement in putting together something special for all. But, each week, Buzz not only had the opportunity to play in his Band, he created a community of Musicians that came together to make Music - oftentimes playing together for the first time. These same Musicians will never forget him, and neither will those Blues Fans who witnessed Buzz creating a fun time for all. He had a positive impact on us all! Sincere condolences and prayers to the Family & Friends of Buzz Fowler.
MF Harris
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Miss you Buzz. Love, MFH
Sheryl Hand
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Buzz was one of a kind with the biggest and kindest heart. You made an impact on my life. You will be greatly missed. I am so lucky to have been touched by his friendship. Rest in Peace sweet Buzz.
Patrick Langan
left a message on December 19, 2015:
The world was a better place with Buzz in it. Great Human Being. God Speed Buzz!
Jo Cavanagh
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Only knew Buzz for 2 years, with the Blues Meet-up group.....Buzz was SO welcoming to me, a " newbie " to AZ, and made me feel as though I was an old friend....Buzz will greatly missed !! Jo Cavanagh
John Ryden
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Always in our hearts
WCMark
left a message on December 19, 2015:
You will be with us always )-
Scott Halvorsen
left a message on December 19, 2015:
Buzz was a good friend and a great guy with a big heart. He will be greatly missed by many. I was blessed to know him. Rest In Peace buddy.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.