Jaromir Kocandrle, 61

446

Jaromir Kocandrle, 61Northborough – Jaromir “Mirek” Kocandrle, 61, died Monday, April 9, 2012 after a short battle with cancer.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 27 years, Nancy L. (Spannbauer) Kocandrle; his son, Rudy Kocandrle of Northborough; his daughter, Emily Kocandrle of Northborough; his mother, Vera (Fornouzova) Kocandrle; and his sister, Vera Holt of Australia. He is predeceased by his father, Antonin Kocandrle.

Mr. Kocandrle was born in the Czech Republic and moved to Australia in 1968. A trumpet player, he graduated from Duntroon Royal Military College in 1977.

As a bass player for many years, he performed with the Phil Wilson Big Band, Wayne Naus Big Band, Boston Jazz Conspiracy Big Band, George Smith Big Band, Roy Orbison, Drifters, Coasters, Platters, Bee Gees, Marvelettes, Mary Wells, the Seekers, and the Canberra Symphony Orchestra. As music was his passion, he left Australia to attend Berklee College of Music, Boston. Upon graduation, he spent more than 30 years teaching at Berklee.

He was a veteran educator, bassist and author. His family was especially proud that he was promoted to full professorship at Berklee in 2012. He earned his USGTF certification and taught at the Golf Teaching Center Inc. in Northborough for a number of years.

Mr. Kocandrle was a bass player in the band Jordan Valentine and the Sunday Saints. He organized student spring concerts for over 20 years at the Berklee Performance Center. He was also a member of the Marlborough Fish and Game. An avid soccer fan and wine enthusiast, he especially loved motorcycling, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, April 12, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough. His funeral service will be held Friday, April 13, at 10 a.m., at the Church of Nativity, 45 Howard St., Northborough.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dana Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center: 20 Prospect St., Milford, MA, 01757.

For online condolences, visit www.haysfuneralhome.com.

No posts to display