Duane Jarvis in hospice after cancer battle
Duane Jarvis, a longtime member of the L.A. roots/alt-country scene who has played with Lucinda Williams, John Prine, Dwight Yoakam, Dave Alvin and others as well as releasing several albums of his own, has entered hospice care following a 16-month fight with colon cancer.
“It’s been a tough fight, but Duane has faced it with tremendous grace, never losing his sense of humor or his positive outlook on life,” his brother Kevin wrote in a note sent to family members, friends and fans. “His music has kept him going, and us entertained. In the past five months alone Duane has endured two major surgeries, three rounds of chemo, numerous trips to the ER, and many weeks in the hospital.
“Unfortunately, Duane’s cancer has now reached terminal status and he will no longer be seeking curative treatment,” Kevin Jarvis wrote. “He has recently moved into an apartment near his beloved ocean in Marina Del Rey where he is under the care of loved ones and Providence TrinityCare Hospice.”
A fund has been established to help with the cost of the treatment and emergency room visits, as well as other expenses the musician has incurred. Donations may be sent to the Pray for Tomorrow Fund, 2554 Lincoln Blvd., No. 1010, Venice, CA 90291.
“The love surrounding Duane grows stronger with each contribution, good wish, prayer, song,” his brother added, “and Duane is grateful beyond words.”
-- Randy Lewis
Photo of Jarvis with Charlie Louvin in 2007 courtesy of Jenine de Shazer
I'm so sorry to hear this. What an amazingly nice and talented man he is. He has always been a gentleman. Stay strong brother. Kevin
Posted by: Kevin Montgomery | March 26, 2009 at 11:48 AM
Hey D.J., Our visit with you last Saturday meant so much to James and me and espically the boys. You are so special to us! We hope you like all the pictures from our family and from the Treasure Island Kids! We continue to pray for your health and spirit! With you , we always get way more back then we could ever bring. Love always, Lori and family
Posted by: James, Lori, Bret, Evan and Cole Frangipane | March 26, 2009 at 06:12 PM
You passed my way, Duane. You opened up my thoughts to new ideas about creative authenticity and the natural advantages a decent man carries. Not every talented Artist gets what they deserve but I think the universal respect that you've earned has been accorded. You are...profoundly...what you always wanted to be. If you plan to be going anywhere, keep it in mind that you do, as a matter of fact, take it with you. Your music has a very bright future...it's best days ahead, I think.
Nol Trusty
Posted by: Noel Trusty | March 27, 2009 at 02:48 PM
I was so glad to see him at the EB show at farmers market,when I was playing with Sarah Stanley 's band .. Duane has always encoraged me and has made me better by his example .I am forever Grateful for being lucky enough to meet you .you are The brightest staron the scene . I love you Duane xoxox Steve
Posted by: steve Seifert | March 28, 2009 at 01:52 AM
DJ
I'm checking flights to come see you. I just cut a version of that last song we made up "Just Restless" and I'll bring a copy out to make you laugh. You are my brother.
kb
Posted by: Kevin Bowe | March 28, 2009 at 02:45 PM
Duane, your music has been a big part of my life. All of my best to you and your family. Bob from Columbus, Ohio.
Posted by: Bob Hust | March 30, 2009 at 05:52 PM
Duane has passed away. Thanks for all the great music, DJ.
Posted by: RonF. | April 01, 2009 at 10:04 AM
Nos vemos, hermano. Cuidate.
Black Francis
Posted by: black francis | April 01, 2009 at 10:28 AM