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The Salvation Army in the West has lost an outstanding advocate of its music ministry. Bandmaster Eric Loveless was recently promoted to Glory from Tucson, Arizona, after suffering from Parkinson’s disease for 30 years. In spite of his disability he maintained his positive attitude and sense of humor, providing inspiration to soldiers of several Western corps.
Born in 1938 in the north of England, Eric was a third generation Salvationist. He played solo cornet in the Shaw Citadel Band at the age of 16, and then at the age of 19 he entered Her Majesty’s Coldstream Guards Regimental Band and was the principal player during his three years of service. He graduated from the Trinity College of Music, London, with a degree in cornet playing.
In 1967 Eric and his wife, Joan, emigrated to the United States and he served as bandmaster, songster leader or music coordinator in the Sacramento, Redding, Reno, Phoenix, Oakland, San Diego, Stockton and Tucson Temple corps. He earned the admiration of countless young people with his playing style and produced remarkable results in even the smallest corps.
Eric was the recipient of the Frontiersman of the Year award in 1988, and in 1997 earned the Certificate in recognition of Exceptional Service.
He had a keen sense of humor and never let the physical problems override his positive attitude.
Eric will be sorely missed by all who knew him, but his influence will live on and be a continuing inspiration to others.
