
Jeremy Kanh's Tribute
Chuck Miller
Vandoren
Everybody at DANSR and Vandoren is saddened by the passing of our friend and inspiration Mark Colby. Mark was the kindest and most supportive person. He was a master with the saxophone as he was a teacher and mentor to so many.
Rest in Peace dear friend, the world will not be the same without you. Thank you for this beautiful portrait, James Korn.

Jeanne Weinkle
"Mark and I were old friends from University of Miami days. I was over the moon to reconnect with this beautiful man again in Chicago when his name popped up on the Chicago Jazz Festival program. I reached out and got back the loveliest of replies. I was so fortunate to hear him play on a regular basis and more so to call him my dear friend. His kindness, gentle demeanor, big heart and sweet soul drew us all to him. A true Mensch.
It has been said in every way that his musicianship and talent were stellar and I, too, am telling the world. I moved to Colorado in 2012 but we stayed connected and I saw him every visit at Catch 35 in the city. I feel his life force strongly now and know I will always. Sending MUCH LOVE to his family."
Hal Tsuchida

I didn't have many chances to talk to you, but it was always nice to talk to and play with. Unfortunately I didn't have a chance to play a gig with you outside of the school, but you were always kind and nice to me. Thank you for what you have done to the jazz community and many students. Actually to many people. We appreciate you. RIP." -Hal Tsuchida
Aubree Collins
"I will miss you tremendously Mark Colby. The world lost yet another beautiful and talented soul. It was an honor to have made music with you."

Bob Lark

Among my fond memories of Mark is a recording session that included some of the finest people and musicians that we've known.
RIP, dear friend - I deeply miss and love you."
Lewis Achenbach
"Working with Mark Colby has always been an easy dream. He’s a generous man that plays from the heart. Much love and respect."



Amy Redmond
"One of the best things about going to Midwest was knowing I’d see you and your smiling face. You are kind, caring and our lives are all better for knowing you. Wishing I could give you one more hug and hear you play one more time right now. Sending all of my love to Mark Colby and his family."
Madge Opolis
"You have made such a mark in all of our lives and in the world. Your immense love for your family and friends, your enormous talent, your humor and wit. So many amazing memories to cherish. These are from one of mom’s photo collages (they always had the most pictures of you because you are her special, beloved baby brother). I love you."



Ainsley Klug
"Mark, I know I didn’t know you when this photo was taken, but I loved finding it in the files at the Showcase. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. I always smiled knowing when you were coming to the Showcase. You are part a wonderful group of people that has helped this place feel like the home it is. Thank you for that. It won’t be quite the same without you."
Gordon Johnson
"Thinking of you & sending love. Finally found this picture and wanted to post it. It's one of my favorite shots from back in those days. I'm guessing you have this one, but wanted to put it up for everyone to see. Thanks Mark, my dear friend & brother."
Chris Madsen
Hey Mark. Remember when we met at the Kraft macaroni recording session at CRC in '97? I was still in high school and you were so supportive to me. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was so impressed with you and you've helped to guide me along my path since then. I love you and want to thank you for everything--all the jokes on and off the bandstand, showing me what style on the tenor really is, and your humanity.
David Drubin
"Sending all the love and support in the world my friend ."
Jeremiah Kramper

Craig Denny
"You had to pick now, huh? I’ve been commenting, liking, loving...even using the caring emoji...but I’m sad. Mark Colby, you are one of my musical parents. I learned how to play from you. Hell, I bought your father in law’s tenor from you! (That Horn was a MF btw and I still kick myself about selling it). Most of all, I learned how to be a professional musician from you.
Next day at the trade show you came up to me and asked why I didn’t play the gig. I threw out some nonsensical bullshit about not playing much anymore and you game me the look and said the following, verbatim: ‘Just because you don’t, doesn’t mean you can’t!’