THE SPIRIT OF ALL NATIONS WEDNESDAY July 26th, 2023 | www.tworowtimes.com | 519-900-5535 | Grand River Territory | FREE
Celebrated musician Mark Laforme passes at age of 69 1045 Brant County Hwy 54 Ohsweken 519-770-3628
of themselves and appreciate them every day.” Laforme, also known as the Mississauga Rattler, began playing guitar at the age of 11 and his early influences were Hank Williams, Ray Charles, and the Rolling Stones. He was a touring member of the Stompin’ Tom Connors Band for three Canadian
NAHNDA GARLOW
nahnda@tworowtimes.com
TWO ROW TIMES
Come see us for great savings
OHSWEKEN — Well known guitarist and Mississaugas of the Credit musician Mark Laforme died on July 20. Reaction from the community was shock and sadness as people remembered Laforme’s contribution to Canadian music. “I’m at a loss for words and totally devastated,” wrote Rob Bomberry. “Thanks for all you have taught me and all the time we spent together, not to mention a mini birthday concert one time and playing our wedding. There weren’t many days we didn’t talk . And we never left one another without a huge hug. Rest in peace my brother. I’m gonna miss you like no other.” One of Laforme’s daughters, Cheyenne Laforme wrote, “Everyday for 17 years I got to listen to my dad playing and singing in the basement. Not practicing, because he didn’t need to, but playing because it made him happy. On stage was when he was the best
tours. Mark performed with the Canadian rocker up to 2011. He recently played songs at the Six Nations Indigenous People’s Day celebration in Ohsweken. He was a noted musician and a popular draw for local crowds. He was 69 years old.
Six Nations artist Logan Staats wrote, "To me Mark LaForme is one of 6 Nations greatest songwriters and troubadours. I always looked up to him and his music will resonate through our reservation for generations." This image was from the Rumble concert. RUMBLE
version of himself and I’m so happy you will all remember him that way. He would play the songs he hated if it made the crowd happy, but he sure as hell would not be playing those in the basement. He told me if I ever told a guitarist to play Freebird or ever touch a musicians instrument I was in huge trouble. That is how I will remember him. The dad who was like the wind, bouncing
from city to city who raised me to be the same way. When he played for Stompin’ Tom he sent me a postcard from every stop. As I grew up and spent less time at home, I found myself naturally drawn to those places. Your condolences and anecdotes have brought us smiles and laughter. I’m sure they would bring him the same. Remember your loved ones as the best versions
Mark Laforme (left) will be greatly missed by many including his friend Rob Bomberry (right) who said, "We always talked music." ROB BOMBERRY
Your insurance and community partner We hire local, shop local, and support community members and charities through donations and sponsorship
SALES • SERVICE • PARTS
SNOWMOBILES • SIDE X SIDES • ATVS • MOTORCYCLES • JET SKIS • LAWN MOWERS
1264 COLBORNE ST. EAST, BRANTFORD, ONTARIO PHONE
519.759.8140
We take pride in investing back into the community we share
grandriverinsurance.ca · 2176-B Chiefswood Rd, Ohsweken Call us today for a free quote (519) 445-2795
Home | Auto | Commercial | Pensions | Group | Risk Management PM42686517