Greetings, Bonamassa fans and Garth’s friends;
With a heavy heart, I write on behalf of Garth’s family to thank you for your kind words in this difficult time. We are grateful for the opportunity to read your memories of G shared through a mutual love of music.
Like many of you, some of my most cherished memories of Unkl G centered on the blues. Yesterday I came across a VHS he had made for me many moons ago of live Indigenous performances. I can remember later seeing them at a bar in North Dakota during a howling blizzard, and then writing Garth about the show. I recall his excitement hearing that I was seeing Walter Trout in Fargo upon his recommendation, and later his satisfaction when I reported that I was sufficiently blown away. I also recall my dad calling to talk about the incredible Clapton show he and Garth caught in Omaha. But mostly I remember all the years of Saturday in the Park in Sioux City. Beer, food, blues…and of course, Garth. This is the Garth that is seared in my memory, and I recall him fondly through the tears.
As those of you who knew him know, Garth was a humble, laid back guy. However, he was so proud and honored that he was able to contribute a piece of his art to Joe’s album, Blues Deluxe. Garth was in awe of Joe’s music and it meant so very much to him to be a part of it. His ability to capture the passion, power, and pain of music, one frame at a time, was truly a gift. I am grateful that his photographic legacy lives on so that we may continue to see his life through his eyes.
Garth succumbed to carcinoid cancer of the pancreas and liver. He had asked that in lieu of flowers, donations in his honor be made to the Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center at Johns Hopkins. http://www.path.jhu.edu/pancreas/Support.php
We want you to know that in Garth’s last days, his favorite albums, including Joe’s, were a constant comfort to him in the hospital as he prepared to leave us. We know he was listening and smiling as the sound of Joe’s guitar, among others, played him out.
Sincerely,
Mark Davis
“Neph”
. 
