To the Editor:

John "Jack" Bond was a good friend of mine and, I along with many other persons, would call him a musician's, musician.

Jack was born in Nesquehoning and early on he had a desire to play the trombone.

At age 8, he acquired one and willingly practiced daily.

Very soon, he was playing his trombone in both the Nesquehoning School and the American Legion bands.

Upon graduation, Jack joined the U.S. Navy Reserve and while earning several medals, he also played with the U.S. Navy Band.

After his stint in the Navy Reserve, he worked in retail at the former Almart store and he drove an armored truck for the Dunbar Co., but his love of music found him playing again touring with several "big bands."

He composed arrangements for The Perseverance Dixieland Jazz band as well as the band's gig programs and when Dorney Park coined its new clown, Alfondo, Jack wrote their theme song for the park.

Jack played trombone or tuba with The Cetronia Band, The Pioneer Band, the Northeast Variety Band, The Country Gentlemen and The Dixieland Five.

As a musician, I will miss hearing his jazzy trombone and, as a close friend, I will miss his quick wit ready smile and his companionship very much.

John "Jack" Bond died Oct. 1.

Ken Clauser

South Whitehall Township