Fred Kaz R.I.P.

1933-2014

The entertainment business knew him as the Great Kazoo.  I knew him as Fred.

Fred was an old time friend I had on my bucket list to visit a few times before he or I died.

During the 70’s and 80’s he traveled on his boat, the Baby Grand from Chicago to Washington Island.  We would share a drink or two in Jackson Harbor. Fish for salmon, tell sailor jokes and reminisce stories of our Great Lake experiences.

Fred grew up in Chicago, was a talented jazz pianist, playing at the Gate of Horn, jazz festivals and played with the likes of Duke Ellington.

Fred was one of the early stars at Second City theater in Chicago and retired in 1989.

Fred left Chicago and moved to California, living on board his motor yacht named Cadenza.

Fred lived on his boat with his wife Helen." I have birds, sea creatures and good air", Fred told a crowd at the California's Fanatic Salon.
During a 22 mile trip near Catalina Island Fred said " We saw several pods of dolphins, a humpback whale and a calf, two great white sharks, a huge ocean sunfish and a fin whale".

My sorrow of Fred dying is tempered with the

thought of him living a life most of us can only 

hope to aspire.

Fred’s life brought joy into the world, which is something only a few gifted achieve.

For Fred's 50 year tribute to Second City Theater, click below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGI76gVn-hk