Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
Born in England, Ian was a brother, a father, a grandfather, an uncle, a chef, a musician and a friend to us all.
Upon meeting Ian, a heartfelt connection was established. This was one of Ian’s many strengths. Those who came into his life were touched by his charm, wit, and sensitivity.
Ian created an emotional bond with all of his friends. He was someone who put others before himself. Ian found joy by making others smile. Ian looked to speak about what made you “who you are.” When I looked at Ian, I felt my insecurities begin to strengthen; I felt at home, I felt comfortable with myself. Strong enough to prevail, my insecurities unveiled before me as new sources of strength. The glint in Ian’s eye… the warmth in his smile…
Ian, you may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. I love you, we all love you, you will live in our hearts forever.
One summer evening in 2011, Ian decided to swing by my house in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. I was rather excited as it was going to be our first opportunity to jam- and had spent nearly an hour prepping the basement with the PA system.
Ian and Deb arrived around 7pm, and we piled down to the basement to plug in. We had a neighbor fill in on drums, who I was then jamming with for just a few months. Ian began with a classic rock song- the Allman Brothers 'Sweet Melissa' and boom! I knew this cat had true talent! We went on to play the Kinks, Animals, The Knack, The Who, Led Zeppelin- you name it!
That evening was filled with over two hours of soulful music my ears had not heard since playing with my brother Jim Zeas, we had played in bands for six years from teenagehood. Deb was kind enough to sit in on vocal as Ian shifted gears to play some contemporary rock- Pink.
Ian filled a musical void only a handful of people have done in my life. He had a grace and humble nature despite his talent.
