Share a Memory About Tom Barth

A Memory Shared by: Edd Monskie
2010-01-03 21:38:47
I also knew Tom back in the days of Tempo Music on Rt. 46 in Dover. Got to know Tom then and he sold me a Guild Acoustic which I still own today. I also remember Tom playing in Purple Oz as Rick Pearce does. That was on the beach at Mount Hope pond. (Rick and I played in the same band.) Tom was an incredible player.

A Memory Shared by: dep
2009-12-16 11:59:52
I feel a little bit like an interloper here, but maybe a very recent memory -- from right now, in fact -- might make someone here smile. A couple of days ago I was in a local music store, one of the good kind, a hole-in-the-wall that might have just about anything, in a small town -- and I saw a TommyHawk guitar there, looking brand new, with an unusual (as if its size and construction weren't unusual enough) Selmer-style soundhole. I grinned, went about my business, and left. It stuck in my mind, though. Because, you see, a very close friend of mine, a great guitarist and singer-songwriter, is recovering from surgery for suddenly discovered and potentially devastating cancer. It appears that all will ultimately be well, but there are months ahead of treatment and worry. So I was seeking something very special as a Christmas gift, something that would bring true delight. This morning, I went back and purchased it (and a case that I think originally housed a violin). Wanting to make a little note to go with it, I went online. I discovered that the TommyHawk is universally beloved -- second only to its maker, in fact. Then I found this page, and read people's reminiscences, and was filled with the thought of the complete, symmetrical rightness of finding this instrument under these circumstances. I did not know Tom, never met him, until today hadn't heard of him. It is therefore all the sweeter to be able to report to those who knew and loved him that even now he is doing good work, and shall make someone very happy, years after his passing.

A Memory Shared by: Winnie Thomas
2009-11-03 12:55:03
Back in the early 70's when he opened in Ledgewood, I was a frequent visitor. I made a great number of speaker cabinets for Tom, he fondly remembered the White set I made (loaded with EV speakers). I ws still a raging alcoholic at the time and would use up my money, get a gig, and have no guitar to use. Tom would front me a guitar and let me pay him after I got the gig money together. I remember a red Epiphone CAsino (this was a REAL one) He also sent me an amp by mail (after I got sober and moved to New Hampshire). (I did pay for it.) The years have passed and I still have fond memories. I found oud only recently that he had dies. GodSpeed Tom. Winnie Thomas

A Memory Shared by: SouthWind12
2009-10-24 18:18:06
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2009-10-23 16:41:09
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A Memory Shared by: Frank Robbins
2009-04-07 23:42:09
Wow, another Spring, another Opening Day!! And all I can think about, along with the new season and new stadiums, is Tom! Opening Day is like another Christmas Day for a true fan like Tom, with all the hopes and possibilities of a fresh start. Tom was probably the biggest baseball fan I've known, beside my Dad, and I envied his enthusiasm. Two years ago, when I took my shot at running the store, the game echoed out of the old stereo in the back of the shop, and Tom was there, just out of view, smiling in his Yankee cap and playing catch with an old scuffed ball. I spoke to him often that day, and many other days since, and I can hear his laugh and good advice still to this day. I want to take a moment to say "Thanks" to Nancy and "Good Luck" to Kenny. To everyone else, I say take a little of Tom's enthusiasm, apply it liberally to your life, and say "Put me in Coach, I'm ready to play..TODAY!" God bless!!

A Memory Shared by: Tony Walker
2008-12-26 22:49:57
It was around 1995. It was raining and the traffic slow going home to Wharton. I don't know why, but I stopped at the Music Box and my life changed. Tom encouraged me to play again, and from them on it was a weekly fun fest. Tom turned me on to Blackfoot and recently I saw the name Barth in the line-up, (no relation), but then I decided to surf and find news of my old friend and mentor. I was shocked and saddened. I left years ago for Texas, but Tom's teachings have always stayed with me. My belated condolences to his family.

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE "O" OHLWEILER
2008-08-29 10:51:30
Its hard to believe...3 years...The more time that passes, the more I miss Tom..He loved this time of year ...Baseball playoffs heating up !!Soccer season starting up..Always the sound of laughter in the shop and the everlasting argument of who was going to the World Series..I think Tom would have hated the fact that Joe Torre and Donny baseball went to LA , just a shame that one.. But all in all.....I just miss him... Always remember and Represent Tom... Charlie O

A Memory Shared by: Greg. Elio
2008-07-24 08:56:56
I thought i would add this memory and i am saddened to hear that Tom was taken by that awful desease of cancer at a young age. It's been 42 years since iv'e seen Tommy. He was in the High School band with me (he played trumpet) i thought it was sax,until i checked out the names on our spring concert album of 1965 and what instrument he did play. He also would come around often to my practice sessions in 1966, with a group called (The Gyrations).Other members were Gary(mo)Moses from dover,Tom and Gary Bixler from Mt Hope and Richie Costanza also from Mt. Hope. I also knew him from tempo music center. But i just wanted say, that what memories I have of Tommy were that he always had a smile on his face and i enjoyed being around him and after reading the memories of others i see his personality never changed. ---When i came acrossed the note on the message board of classmates.com of a fund for The Barth Family and Toms illness i immediatally prayed for His healing, then i had to go to an appointment to the doctor. Last night i dreamed about Tommy as i remembered him back in the 60's. Then at 4am i awoke with him on my mind strongly. I got up and got on the computor and went to the website of the fund where to my surprize my prayers were 3yrs to late and i cried. I really wish i would have known sooner.To all who read this,we will never know when we will leave this earth to go into eternity. Are you ready at any time? Have you accepted JESUS as your Lord and Savior?If not do it now He's the ONLY way to heaven! My prayers to the Barth Family.

A Memory Shared by: Tara Barth
2008-02-13 19:37:53
When I miss my Dad, (Grandmother or Grandfather for that matter) I come here to read about him. I am so thankful that people have taken the time to tell their stories about how he touched their lives. The little things, the funny things that made him Tom. Although my Mom is still alive, I cannot talk to her about him. Almost 39 years has gone by since they were were laughing teenagers at County College, enjoying the music and freedom that the 60's brought. Becoming parents at 18, enjoying friends and family and riding the wave of a successful business in their 20's inevitably came to a close after 13 years. 13 years was a good run, I'd say. There were lots of laughs, great music, fantastic food and love too. Luckily for both of us, there was a chapter 2 with Nancy. Since Dad's been gone I have started a school here in Raleigh NC. It is in part, a dedication and celebration of they way Tom shared himself with his students, which in turn, made them feel welcome, important and want to learn even more. I hope I make him proud. Whether a student wanted to learn Zeppelin, or Dave Matthews he never asked or "required" you to start with canned theory or musical mumbo jumbo. He took you where you were, delighted in the fact that you were an eager student and rocked on from there. One size NEVER fit all. It was always personalized. I stood with a couple of parents in the foyer of my school today (they were considering the school for their 12 year old daughter) and when asked why and how the school came to fruition I couldn't help but share with them a little story about a guy named Tom who had a music school and made guitars. (Who he was to his students and his family continues to be revealed thanks to this site.) I went on to say that his dedication to being real, never anything other than himself and the fact that he never went further than high school, yet he was an engineer, a some-time psychologist, a business owner, a rocker, a loyal friend, and a humble networker, to say the least was the greatest resume a man could have. PhD? Nope. Did it matter? Not at all. His passion for guitars, music, friends, family and life itself, didn't require him to have one. Being allowed to follow his (not his parents'dream) dream is what it's all about. So if your daughter wants to go to Harvard, you're in the right place. If she wants to make pottery, you're in the right place too. (We'll have her ready for college anyway if she changes her mind.) Like Tom, learning is always personalized. I know he watches us, cheers for us and networks where and when he can. He knows that all of you who have taken the time to write here have important work to do too. We now realize that sometimes angels come as plain clothed guys in t-shirts and jeans named Tom. He was certainly a pay it forward kind of guy. So let's do our part to make this place better than we found it. Inspire someone, be kind to someone different from ourselves, smile at someone and think of that twinkle in Tom's eyes as his whole face smiled at you. It was no accident that our paths crossed his. Thanks Dad. I love you and miss you.

A Memory Shared by: Doug Keith
2008-01-15 13:33:58
I bought a used Fender Stratocaster from Tom in 1974 which I still own. It had a unusual dent in the finish on the front but otherwise is in perfect condition. I remember having a few laughs at the time, about how the mark got there. We finally agreed the previous owner was probably trying to do his best Jimi Hendrix teeth playing imitation and smashed himself in the face because the mark looks like the impression of a front tooth! Tom gave me a good deal on the guitar and I'll think of him when it's played... rock on!

A Memory Shared by: John Lepre
2008-01-03 14:25:22
I was just googling for musician stuff and came across this website and the saddening news of Tom's passing. My heart goes out to his family, and I hope things get better for all of you. I haven't heard from Tom in quite a few years, but my memories are of course about music. I met Tom while working at AT&T and we formed a friendship through our mutual love for music. We actually formed a band while working together that played at all of AT&T?s monthly functions. Guess what Tom named the band? The Dialtones! Original huh, but that was Tom right? We actually sounded pretty good!

A Memory Shared by: Rick Goryeb
2007-11-29 12:17:06
I'm sorry I'll miss the tribute to Tom tomorrow, but my heart & thoughts are with him. Tom was a great friend and inspiration to me. He was a great father and husband. He influenced me in a positive way just from being around him, about life and music. Music was a common thread that we had. There are only a few people in my life that can relate to and talk about a cool riff or song by a guitarist that we both admire. I miss that. Having a sandwich at his shop and talking about whatever. He would show me some old worn out piece of equipment from long ago that he picked up from a garage sale or somewhere. Nancy is still trying to figure out what to do with that stuff, but it was fascinating. He told me about an idea to patent a guitar with strings spooled up inside for instant string changes. I think he had drawings of it. We spoke about other amazing ideas that he had, most were written down and drawn out. He inspired me to play more and have confidence in my ability and potential. It has helped me to this day and always will. I miss him much!

A Memory Shared by: Nancy
2007-11-22 12:08:18
Today is Thanksgiving. And although I miss Tom every single day, I have to be thankful that he left me with such amazing family and friends who have helped me and the kids get through these last few years. Everyone should be so lucky to have such loving, supportive people around them. I am thankful that at the 11th hour, an angel sent me the perfect person to carry on Tom's legacy, The Music Box. My most vivid memory of Tom on Thanksgiving is his Julia Child imitation. He made us all roar with laughter every year while helping to cook Thanksgiving dinner and doing a perfect imitation of Julie Child. And of course, I am thankful to have had such a great husband for 21 yrs. Many people don't get that during their whole life.

A Memory Shared by: Bob Shortridge
2007-10-11 18:12:07
I still can't believe he is gone. He was one of the people in life that it was always great to see and talk to. I have been thinking about him alot lately. I spoke with Tom a year or so before his passing and discussed my son taking guitar lessons. I was excited that Tom might be teaching my son. My son recently got guitar hero on play station and now wants lessons again, which brought back memories of the conversation Tom and I had. We are having a fall ball baseball game tomorrow night at kings field. This field may not have been there if it weren't for Tom writing a letter to the Mayor. One of Tom's friends is coaching the other team with his son playing, I am helping coach my son's team and who is also playing. I saw a little bit of the movie field of dreams and can't help but think that I will be spending alot of time thinking about Tom, who was large in life and I can't help but think he will be looking down on our game tomorrow night. He was the best.....

A Memory Shared by: Charle
2007-07-25 10:05:56
What is life? It is the flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of a buffalo in the wintertime. It is the little shadow which runs across the grass and loses itself in the sunset... Blackfoot Indian Proverb... I still think of Tommy on a daily basis..His laugh,his humor,His dedication to family and to his craft..I ran into some folks this past week-end.Gary and his wife and I talked for hours about Tom,Nancy and the kids...about young Tom and his wonderful talents and acomplishments..It was wonderful to bring back some of the memories..and sad too...Tom is very much loved by all he touched...Miss you Pal..Love ya Charlie O

A Memory Shared by: Kristin Korpos
2007-06-28 05:59:46
I have been meaning to write something on here for years - but everytime I visited the site, I just couldn't do it. It seemed too hard, it was too emotional. Well, here it goes. I begged my mom to get me a guitar and to find somebody to give me lessons way back in...uhm, I think it was around 1989, when I was 13. She said she knew a highschool friend of my uncle Nick (who passed away in a car accident in 1977) that might be able to give me some lessons. That friend was Tom Barth who conveniently resided in the next town over from us, Mine Hill. Sure enough I started lessons a few weeks later with a rented acoustic guitar from Richies. Tom was a great teacher and at such a young age it was exciting to see someone else that was so passionate about music, both listening to it and playing it. Over the next few years I took lessons, babysat from time to time for Chris and Tommy, and even helped out at The Music Box during my high school years. A fond memory, I'll never forget is the CD that Tom gave me for my sweet 16, it was Bonnie Raitt's self-titled debut album from 1971 which was so heavy on the blues and to this day, one of the most amazing CD's I own. That's just one memory, I have so many, another being the time I performed with Tom and his boys at a Mine Hill Day celebration singing Wild Night on a flatbed truck. He was such a great guy, he had millions of great stories, and he was a real mentor to me. Though I went off to college and continued on to graduate school up in Boston (and still reside up here) I never forgot all of those great years that I spent as Tom's student, employee and friend. I know that I will cross paths with many people throughout my life, but Tom is one that I will never forget, and my memories of him will forever live on in my heart and in my music. Recently I visited Nashville and all I could think about was whether Tom ever went to Nashville...because it was so cool and I know it was right up his alley. I don't recall him talking about it ever...he must have been there....I was so surrounded by music in Nashville and I couldn't help but think of Tom. Well, maybe Tom and my uncle Nick are rockin' up in heaven...because that would be pretty cool!

A Memory Shared by: Steve
2007-03-13 19:59:35
Not a day goes by that I don't think of Tom ...

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE "O" OHLWEILER
2007-03-13 10:26:06
AHHHHH, SPRINGTIME !!! tHIS IS THE TIME OF YEAR WHEN CONVERSATIONS AT THE SHOP WOULD TURN TO BASEBALL..YANKEE BASEBALL ! TOM WOULD HAVE BEEN HAPPY THAT ANDY PETTIT IS BACK..HE LIKED THE WAY HE PITCHED..ALSO, IN THE OLD DAYS ON ROUTE 10,WE WOULD ALL BE RALLYING TO SEE WHO WAS PLAYING SOFTBALL AND WITH WHO,IT WAS A FUN TIME..THERE WERE ALWAYS SOME HEATED BASEBALL DISCUSSIONS GOING ON TOO,BE IT AT THE SHOP OR AT ESPOS HOUSE IN LONG VALLEY.ESPECIALLY IF THE NAME RED SOX WAS MENTIONED...MY GOODNESS.!! EVEN IN NO SO DISTANT PAST WHEN THE KIDS WERE PLAYING BALL OR SOCCER...TOM ALWAYS WANTED TO SEE HOW THEY WERE DOING AND HAD A REAL CONCERN FOR ALL OF OUR KIDS,AND HAD A ONE OF A KIND LOVE FOR HIS OWN...A TRUER HEART NEVER BEAT..AND WE ALL MISS THE MAN SURROUNDING THAT HEART..MISS YOU TOM AND LOVE YOU...HAPPY ST PATTYS TOO...CHARLIE O

A Memory Shared by: Tony DiDomenico
2007-02-02 12:15:58
These are one of those times when you wished you had never stumbled on this information. I met Tom in the late 70's, he had done a repair on an electric guitar, I was so inspired by him I had decided to learn more about lutherie. I began building in the early 80's. Never ran into him again, I guess once was enough. My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Barth family. Tom was the beginning to something that I hold very dear to me, after all these years, I never forgot that very brief encounter.

A Memory Shared by: Susan Jackson . Chris Jackson
2007-01-24 15:28:34
We were very shocked and saddened to read in the Daily Record's special section today that Tom Barth had passed away over a whole year ago. We had no idea. In the short time that we knew him, he made such an impression on us. My son took lessons at his shop years ago with one of his employees, but he always made a point of coming out to say hello to both of us, no matter what he was doing, and encouraging Chris to stick with it. I always waited there for the half hour on the bench in the foyer and enjoyed listening to Tom play with his students, ever so gently coaxing them to do better. His sheer joy at just noodling around was evident. I only wish Chris had been old enough to take lessons with him. What a wonderful, amazing person he was.

A Memory Shared by: PETE CULLEN
2007-01-16 16:50:19
MY MEMORIES OF TOMMY BARTH GROWING UP IN NORTH DOVER AND BOWLBYVILLE ARE MAINLY WHAT A GREAT BASEBALL PLAYER HE WAS. HE SEEMED TO BE ALWAYS PLAYING BASEBALL AT THE NORTH DOVER SCHOOL PLAYGROUND.HIS VISION OF HAVING A GRASS BASEBALL FIELD AND THE DOVER JUNIOR BASEBALL LEAGUE CAME TRUE, DUE TO HIS INITITIVE.I THINK HE WAS THE BEST YOUNG BASEBALL PLAYER EVER TO COME OUT OF DOVER.IN THE FIRST GAME EVER PLAYED AT KING FIELD, HE PITCHED A NO HITTER ,PRETTY HARD TO TOP THAT FEAT!R.I.P.TOM!SINCERELY ,PETE CULLEN

A Memory Shared by: Nancy
2007-01-06 20:47:32
Every time it was someone's birthday Tom would break out into a song from "The Little Rascals" and sing "Happy Birthday Mr. Hood, Happy Birthday to ya, to make this birthday turn out right I give this present to ya". He had a song for everything. Happy Birthday Tom! I miss you more every day.

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE "O" OHLWEILER
2006-12-26 11:49:26
MERRY CHRISTMAS TOM..! CHRISTMAS WAS ALWAYS A HAPPY TIME AT THE MUSIC BOX. TOM ALWAYS HAD TIME FOR A CUSTOMER WHO DIDNT KNOW WHAT TO GET FOR A LOVED ONE OR WHAT WAS RIGHT FOR THE CERTAIN PERSON.THERE WAS ALWAYS TIME FOR A GOOD STORY OR A GOOD LAUGH..AS ALWAYS,GOOD FRIENDS WOULD COME BY.IT WAS LIKE A FAMILY REUNION OF SORTS. YOU WOULD HEAR,WOW MAN!! HAVENT SEEN YOU SINCE LAST YEAR OR ,HOW WAS THE SHOW LAST WEEK? TOM WANTED TO KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT THE GIGS AND SHOWS AND HOW DID THE KIDS DO IN SOCCER THIS YEAR. HE ALWAYS WANTED TO MAKE SURE EVERYBODY WAS DOING ALRIGHT.MAKE SURE YOU RETURN THE FAVOR,KEEP TOMS MEMORY ALIVE. LEAVE YOUR THOUGHTS,SHOP AT THE STORE,BOOK SOME LESSONS.NANCY,YOU KNOW WE ARE HEAR FOR YOU....LOVE AND MISS YOU TOM..CHARLIE O

A Memory Shared by: Joe Greff
2006-11-24 13:46:18
While surfing the web, I came across this site and was shocked at the news of Tommy's passing. My condolences to all his Family and Friends. I met Tommy at Tempo in the late 60's. A few memories: The Year: 1969 The Venue: Mt. Hope Pond The Event: Battle Of The Bands It was summer, and word was out there was going to be a battle of the bands at the pond. Since money was tight for 4 kids going to D.B.O. we started to build our lighting. One colorwheel in each of my bass drums, and a strobe made from a fan motor and flood light. Couldn't afford those blacklights, so floresent tubes with gels laid over them would have to do. Day of the show, we forgot one thing... a name for the band...Lead Zeplyn...Who would know? :) Drawing straws for order of performance, we drew first band up. It was still daylight out and we tried desperately to delay starting, as nobody would see our lighting until dark. Tommy walked up, I'm sure laughing inside, and with a straight face said "Joe you might want to change the name of the band. There's already a band using it." UT-OH!!! at least one person here has already heard of Led Zepplin. :) It really didn't matter though, because as the evening grew darker....The winners of the battle came up on the raised stage....PURPLE OZ !!!! I stood in awe.... Tommy always helped if he could......Not having enough money to purchase a used pair of Voice Of The Theaters that were on the floor at Tempo, Tommy let me make payments on them. Well.....Lead Zeplyn broke up shortly thereafter, and I went on to play with Cigarettes. Funny how it's all a big circle...Drew B that I played with in Cigarettes went on to play bass with Robbie in TV Toy. We were all a family....joined by music. "and so castles made of sand, slip into the sea, eventually" But the memories live on...... Thanks for the memories Tom

A Memory Shared by: Bill Davis
2006-11-07 10:34:47
How can I pick up an axe and not think of you, Tom? Can't. Your lessons are still sinking in and your persona is still vivid. Smiles, brews, jokes, licks, stories. Miss you, buddy. Really miss you. Bill

A Memory Shared by: DonneseCheatham-Jones
2006-10-26 11:20:33
I was stunned today when I found out about the premature loss of Mr. Barth. His eldest daughter, Tara and I were the best of friends in high school and I have fond memories of my picking her up at the old house in Mine Hill. Mr. Barth(it's still hard to refer to him by his first name since I am his child's age)always had a smile on his face and always made me feel welcome in his home. I now realize by reading the other posts that Tara inherited her father's wicked sense of humor. I know that she and I have spent countless hours on the phone or on the softball bus laughing and it's clear she received her good nature from her dad. Although I did not know him that well, I knew he loved his family and his music in that order! May God Bless your entire family and give you strength until we all meet again.

A Memory Shared by: Grayson
2006-10-22 11:28:35
You never really realize how much one individual impacts your life thank when they have moved on to a better place. Tom was so magnetic to anyone he met. The stories were endless and the laugh I will never forget. The people he touched in so many ways and so many circles. I guess being married to his beautiful daughter and understanding how family always meant more to him than anything in the world. I will always cherish our time at LBI the most. Simply standing there fishing on the beach with a brew and a cigar for hours on end soaking in life. Being that zany Poppy to his grandsons and making them belly laugh while he popped there toes. It was always about the little things with Tom that were most important. Greek Easter was a close second. So much pride went into to that day for all the family to enjoy. "It's a beautiful thing.." he always said. Especially, another year to share with Gram and Gramps. They were all the BEST to me and treated me like one of there own. I will always rememeber those times and I miss them all every day!! See you on the other side!

A Memory Shared by: Dave Varga
2006-09-11 20:08:28
When I was in high school Tom was maybe 5 years older than me and there was not much of a chance or reason to connect, other than to say a few words to him in `Tempo Music' where he was the manager. The next time we met was last year when I brought my Acoustic and Electric to him for repair. Two of the times I visited we had a chance to connect. We talked about Cream, and Johnny Winter and old concerts, and he had a poster on the wall of one of the concerts we both went to in the 70's. He shared some personal things. I was struck by how unusually genuine and `alive' he was. And the Music Box, where this craftsman worked in this wonderful studio of wood and strings and electronics and connected with the magic of music.

A Memory Shared by: James Vilade
2006-09-04 17:57:35
Tom was an all around great guy. I have so many great memories of him that its hard to list just one. Family vacations at LBI, Greek Easter, and any holiday that we all got to spend together. He is the reason that I play guitar, and still play. When i was young Tom and Nancy gave me my first acoustic along with lessons at the old shop in Dover. I did not realize it at the time, but it was probably the best gift i will ever recieve. Over the years he would give me guitars, strings, picks and lessons, always encouraging me to play. He always took the time to teach me the things i wanted to play along with a lot of rudimentary knowledge. Music is a huge part of my life and I attribute that to Tom. I miss you, and think of you every time I play.

A Memory Shared by: Nancy
2006-09-01 15:38:24
It's been one year since we lost Tom. We miss him very much, but we feel his spirit all around us. We love you Tom and we'll see you when we see you.

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE "O"OHLWEILER
2006-07-13 08:21:07
AND SO THE STORY CONTINUES...THERES A NEW KID ON THE BLOCK TOM...HIS NAME IS FRANK AND HE'S GONNA TRY TO CARRY ON THE MUSIC BOX TRADITION...THANK GOD! THERES ALOT OF FOLKS WHO HATE TO SEE THE LIGHTS OUT AT THE OLD DIGS...I THINK,WITH A LITTLE SUPPORT AND HELP FROM SOME OLD FRIENDS,IT WILL WORK OUT JUST FINE. YOU CAN LOOK DOWN AND SEE THE LIGHTS ON,AND KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE TRYING TO CARRY ON WHERE YOU LEFT OFF...YOU WERE ALWAYS ONE TO HELP OUT THE NEW GUYS TOM..BE IT IN THE SHOP OR ON THE SOCCER FIELD..WE ALL SAW THE HELP THAT YOU GAVE FROM ONE TIME TO ANOTHER..LIKE WHEN YOU HELPED ME BUY ONE OF MY FIRST LES PAUL JUNIORS...I THINK IT TOOK ME 2 YEARS TO PAY THAT THING OFF...BUT HERE IT IS,ALMOST 30 YEARS LATER AND I STILL HAVE IT. IF IT WASNT FOR YOU I NEVER WOULD HAVE PLAYED A NOTE ON IT OUTSIDE OF THE SHOP. ITS VERY RARE THAT I TAKE IT OUT ON A GIG,BUT WHEN I DO,THE STORIES SURROUNDING IT COME FORTH. IT ALWAYS GOES BACK TO THE STORE,HANGING OUT,STORY TELLING AND THE LAUGHTER AND BROTHERHOOD....IM SURE THE SUPPORT WILL GO BACK TO THE SHOP,AND IM SURE A STORY OR 2 WILL BE TOLD OVER THE REPAIR BENCH,AND A LAUGH OR TWO MAY BE HEARD...LOVE AND MISS YOU TOMMY...CHARLIE O

A Memory Shared by: Charlene Leary (young)
2006-06-19 16:10:13
Tommy and his family grew up with ours. My sister Pam graduated with Tommy, and my brother Brian went to school with Robby and I was class of 71. Brian played on Nicks Garage with Tommy and I think he pitched a no hitter in 63. Brian and Tommy were pitchers together. They had a lot of good times and we were always at all of the games. Tommy's son Tommy was christened with my son Richard and they went to Canfield together. Tommy was a great guy and he will be missed.

A Memory Shared by: Red Knob Bob
2006-06-13 14:00:23
Can't resist posting another: Couple of years ago, Tom needed to go to Nazareth and pick up a Martin for a customer, so I went along for the ride. Tom promptly got on Route 57, opting for the slow scenic ride, slowed even more by a few garage sales. He bought nothing, but chatted up every character he came across. Few miles outside of town, Tommy started talking about this pub that he went to the last time he went to Martin and how great the food was, and how you could get a glass (not just a mug) of cold beer, and what the crowd was like, yadda yadda ?you guys all knew Tommy?s stories, no detail left untold as he laughed his way thru it. Well, we hit town, and he is talking just as much about this darn pub as he is about Martin guitars, when, with a loud boom and some smoke, the transmission goes in his station wagon. I was almost relieved that at least now he?d stop talking about that darn bar! We coasted to the nearest curb, leaking fluid and spewing steam. And while I looked thru my wallet to find my AAA card, I heard that famous Tom Barth laughter; we had broken down in front of that very pub he had been talking about for an hour. Moral of the story; take the pretty, slow road, stopping frequently to meet people, and when life gives you a blown tranny, laugh hard and long, because relief (or possibly just a good burger and cold beer) is closer then you think. And if that is too hard to do, make the AAA tow truck driver stop and wait while you buy a guitar. Emma's Dad.

A Memory Shared by: Bernie Drury
2006-06-11 05:53:23
I have waited far too long to write since Tom?s passing. I was a relatively new addition to the carousel of life that was the Music Box but I felt very much an accepted part of the crowd of regulars, semi-regulars and occasional visitors who frequented the store. My wife gave me lessons with Tom as a Christmas present in 2003 and, even though I had been playing for 25 years, I showed up for the first lesson with more than a little trepidation. That disappeared the moment I met Tom for the first time. He was genuinely glad to meet me and immediately curious about my music. He had the unique talent of showing the same enthusiasm for a song regardless if he had played it 1,000 times or was hearing it for the first time! He was the same way with people! I have read the tributes on the web page so I know that you have heard this all before but I want to add my two cents. Tom would greet you like he had been waiting all day just for you to come through the door. I found myself anticipating my lesson earlier and earlier in the week. It soon became more of a visit than a music lesson! I was lucky that my two sons started to show an interest in guitar around this time and soon we were splitting the hour up with me taking 30 minutes and one of the boys taking the other. As much as I appreciated the way that Tom treated me, I was even more thankful for the way he treated my sons. Both of them were really raw but Tom was always positive about their playing and their ideas. Ideas ? that?s a good topic because there was no such thing as a bad idea at the Music Box. My boys could make a suggestion about something and Tom never treated them like beginners or tried to correct them, instead he would always give their idea a try. I just want you to know that our whole family truly enjoyed the lessons and the stories about the lessons! Lastly I want to share with you what I have taken with me from my friendship with Tom ? I hear music differently! When we were working on something and he would play it over a few times he would always point out something special and say, ?You hear that?? Sometimes I had to admit that I couldn?t but soon I did and now I am always asking my family the same thing when I hear a song I like. I am enjoying music more than ever! I am even enjoying the struggles, the slipups and the missed notes. In other words I am playing the way Tom taught us to play, with passion. Love the music and it will love you back! Thank you for sharing Tom with the world, Bernie Drury

A Memory Shared by: Betsy D.
2006-06-05 10:28:53
Tom- I wish I had gotten to know you better than I did. I will always remember you walking through the antique center every weekend with the kids- Cris and Tommy, when they were little- (late 1990's?) Didn't know Nancy then, I wish I did! Met her as a choir mom at Roxbury High School. She's a love, and she's hurting. Ironically, Tommy has become like a son I never had- He's a gem and a joy, and has so many of the qualities that people have described in you- talent with music, athletics, and most importantly, in being compassionate toward people and their limitations. (Did I forget to tell you that he just made Governor's school?) Cris- I only remember you from young years- I hope you are OK Nancy- know that I am thinking of and admire your grace and fortitude- ...and to our friend Rob- it was great to see you at Jai-Alai and to my love Tommy- you are the best, I hope I can be your second mom (among 50,) Thank you for your love and hugs- I'm proud of you- See you at the lake! Your Dad would be (is) so proud. Grab life and keep going! Bets

A Memory Shared by: Daniel Ballone
2006-06-02 11:44:22
I Met Tom in 2001 as a guitar instructor. A few months after starting lessons i started to work at the Music Box watching the register and doing basic guitar tune ups. Tom was an amazing instructor and an amazing guitar player. While i was at the Music Box i had the pleasure of making my own little Tommy Hawk. This memory will forever stick out in my mind, i felt privileged to work as his apprentice. I give my best regards to the Barth Family, he will be missed but he will never be forgotten.

A Memory Shared by: k dowd
2006-04-29 14:16:45
While surfing the net and googling old friends I stumbled onto this site which brought tears and fond memories all at the same time. I met Tom Barth as a teenager by way of a kindred relationship with his daughter Tara. I recall rummaging through his collection of 45"s with Tara and laughing at some of the oldies but goodies, and thinking, wow "your father is way cool". Tom even took us to a gig somewhere in Mine Hill ( my 39 years are starting to take their toll ) I wish Tara and her entire family best wishes. Even after a year or so of a Fathers passing, I know the hurt never goes away. I myself lost my dad at 20 and there are times when the pain of loss returns, Tara-if you need someone to rap too who understands what you went through or are going through-ping me kevin.dowd@thomson.com

A Memory Shared by: dreux bassoul
2006-04-26 14:17:27
I think of Tom often.....even though I live in Seattle.... I still can't believe he's gone from this physical world! Damn!Tommy impacted me in so many ways. I must of been in my late teens. Tom asked me if I wanted to be a bass teacher in his store. I had no self-confidence. Zero, but that generous and trusting gesture was the start of me giving bass lessons on and off for 20 years! In so many other ways, Tom was an inspiration to me and many rockers. I never saw him in a bad mood, he was very funny, inciteful, smart and talented. A great soul.....I believe he knows how we all feel........

A Memory Shared by: Paul Ferguson
2006-04-26 12:19:03
I first met Tommy in the early sixties on the little league field.The same field which now fittingly bears his name.He played for Nick's Garage and i played for The Rotary Club.It would lead to a friendship that would last for over 40 years.We both played music and eventually formed a band together in early 69'.Together with Joe Guerra and Randy Thoren The Purple Oz was born.Tommy had a strong work ethic and the success of that band proved it.People still come up to me and tell me how much they enjoyed what we were doing back then.I last saw Tommy while shopping in Lowe's two summers ago.I was in the lighting dept. checking out some stuff when i heard this voice behind me."Sorry sir but were all out of blacklights" We both cracked up....

A Memory Shared by: Joe Goryeb
2006-04-23 05:48:31
Many years ago, my wife, Jeanne, was trying to do something special for my birthday. She contacted Tom because she knew he would have an idea. Well Tom had a connection to Les Paul, so she arranged for Tom and I to be picked up in a limo and taken to The Iridium in NYC to see Les play. Tom never let on that we would be able to spend a few minutes with Les, until we got there. We walked into the place and you would have thought Tom was the mayor of NYC. He was constantly waving hello and stopping to chat with so many different people that he knew over the years. We got our table right up front and it was magic to watch Les play and tell his stories. The whole time, Tom is pointing out some of the moves he's making on that guitar neck. After the set was over, Tom brought me over to meet Les. What a gentleman he was and he and Tom were having a blast talking guitar and about Les' old days of recording. Tom was fascinated by the old equipment that Les had, many of which he invented. Well Tom pulls him aside for a minute and tells him it's my birthday. The next thing I know, Les opens the second set by playing and singing Happy Birthday to me! Tom had a video camera and recorded the whole thing. I have a large picture hanging on the wall in our rehearsal room of Tom on one side of Les and me on the other. Tom arranged for that picture to be taken as well. Tom has on his old brown leather jacket with the peace symbol pinned to the lapel. His eyes are full of life. Every time our band is rehearsing, Tom is with us in the room. What an incredible man. He taught me so much, and I don't mean about playing the guitar...

A Memory Shared by: Tim "Knuckles" Hoffman
2006-04-15 18:59:12
The year was 1974... Fresh off the experience of learning guitar Saturday mornings from Joe Guerra in his Dad's [Sam] basement. Bleary-eyed from a Friday night gig, Joe would tell of a friendly guy named Tommy who could make any guitar problem disappear.....Long-story-short, the Saturday mornings became history and I ventured west to see Tom many times over the years. Yes it was true that he was a gifted guitar repair expert, but the other truths also became evident; "pay-me-when you can" & don't worry, you're doing fine were other notions that have stayed with me over the years. Tom had a way of mentoring in a non judgemental way that few others took the time to do. As with many of Tom's friends & students Tom envisioned a nicknamed for me ["Knuckles"] after seeing me fumble with my new Hohner 12-string! During the week when no one else was around, I would show up for my lesson, Tom was often jamming along with the radio set to WNEW-FM..."This is Scotso" the DJ would announce.... Layed-back and cool, Tom's Music Box had become an institution that greatly influenced my continued interest in guitar playing and music, but it was about more than just the music. It was late last spring that I called Tom about a guitar setup and he seemed like he was pining for the "old days"....."Wish I had a truckload of those Hohner 12-strings" he said. Then without taking a breath, he hoped to see me soon and asked if my brother Todd was still playing keyboards... Tom was and continues to be a touchstone for the memories of many friends that now seem richly-lived by today's standards.

A Memory Shared by: Tom ( Squirrel) Williams
2006-04-14 19:43:11
I met Tom in 1962 when I moved to Bowblyville from Dover. I remember him listen to the Beach Boys records on his side porch many many times. I was a little older but we got along pretty well. I remember working on his first car with him. We had a blast. He was alot of fun for a young guy. As we got older and both started our new lives Tom became building his dream with music. Tom became a very talented.and along with his Brothers Rob and Bill and many of Tom's friends. They playing in many local places. A few years latter I met Tom and he said they were moving to Mine Hill. Sure enough Tom & Nancy where moving in three houses away from us. It was great, we became closer by working together,bowling together.and getting together with our familys and going to see him play. Tom was a person everyone should have known. I'm sure his friend will agree. We had many great years together with great memories. When I we found out that Tom was sick it broke our hearts. As sick as he was an as bad as I felt for him,just talking to Tom he made me feel good. You would think I was the one that was sick. I can't tell you how much I'll will miss him. I love ya Tom

A Memory Shared by: Frank Poolas
2006-04-13 20:08:44
My fondest memories are of Tom Barth and Rockin. Those hot summer nights, At The Hop in Dover. Tom would jump from the stage to the bar, circle the entire bar. His wireless guitar strumin out Cadillac Ranch. Out the back door he would go, but his guitar never quit, around to the front of the building, he would get on the hood of his car and keep playing. I often wonder what people riding by thought, as they could not here the music. Rob would add a little sax touch on occasion and the joint would rock. At the end of the night we would always do a shot of Ouzo in memory of our Grandfather's. Oh how I hated that Ouzo. Yasou! Tommy, I miss ya

A Memory Shared by: Greg Lewis
2006-04-12 10:55:33
I am an amateur deejay at a local college station. One day about 4 years ago I was playing some 70's British blues-rock and Tom called up to tell me how much he liked it. A classy gesture in itself. The best part was Tom sharing some great stories of his experiences in 70's North Jersey with the likes of Free guitarist Paul Kossoff and other rock luminaries. It was very cool. Later on through some common acquaintances I would meet his brother Bill and his circle of friends from those days. What a great bunch of folks they are.

A Memory Shared by: Jeremy Lebediker
2006-04-06 09:38:14
Tom was the best guitar teacher I ever had and even though I left Jersey two years ago, I still talk about him and the Tommyhawk to my current students (I was searching for his shop's site to show a student when I came across this one and found out he had passed away). Tom was the only teacher I ever went back to more than four times, because he was a real guy with a real passion for teaching and being a person. I'm an artist and at one point I was looking for guitars to paint for my newborn son's room. Tom graciously provided me with three guitars free of charge (actually I think he asked me to buy him a sandwich as part of the transaction). Tom was a wonderful man and often spoke lovingly about his children. He was dedicated to his craft and helped make the world a better place.

A Memory Shared by: Joe Guerra
2006-04-02 22:30:16
Dear Tommy You taught us all to be a better person. Love Hotch

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE O
2006-03-16 13:15:39
I ALWAYS REMEMBER TOM SAYING THAT, IT WASNT THE SIZE OF THE VENUE YOU PLAYED IN ,BUT THE HEART THAT YOU PUT INTO WHAT YOU WERE PLAYING. TRUER WORDS WERE NEVER SPOKEN..I LEARNED SO MUCH JUST LISTENING TO TOM TALK ABOUT THE SHOWS,THE TUNES,HIS OUTLOOK ON EVERYTHING WAS ALWAYS WAS GREAT..HE MUST BE HELPING THE GOOD LORD WITH SOME OF HIS DECISIONS BECAUSE HE HAD SUCH A GREAT ATTITUDE ABOUT LIFE...WHEN WE PLAY AT OUR DIFFERENT VENUES WE ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO PLAY SOMETHING FOR TOMMY....ALL THE WEALTH OF THE WORLD COULD NOT BUY YOU A FRIEND .....OR PAY YOUFOR THE LOSS OF ONE.....TOMMY WAS MINE WE LOVE AND MISS HIM....

A Memory Shared by: joe guerra aka(hotcho)
2006-03-15 19:45:13
There are so many things I could say about my friend Tommy but after reading many of the memories all of you have posted It would be like a broken record as to what a great guy Tommy was and he was. I read something in one of the memories which fits Tommy to a tee which was he never had a bad thing to say about anybody and He never did. I spent many a year with Tommy and he also gave me my nickname ( Hotho ) He also named my green volkswagon(1965) The green latrine. One of the best times we had was with the band "The Purple Oz" back in the late 60's.It was a great time and I will never forget it Tommy. You we're the best God ever gave this Earth. A little story about my friend We we're playing a gig somewhere in Randolph one Friday evening and Tommy showed up to the Gig with his bass in one hand and his bass case in the other and so I asked him what's up with that. He opened the case to reaveal 6 bottle of Ripple. You we're the best Tommy. I will never forget you

A Memory Shared by: Sue Miller
2006-03-13 20:09:51
Still can't believe Tom is gone. I want to express how sorry we are. We miss him so much. We will always remember all the laughs..fun dinners with he and his wonderful family. We will miss his creativity and positive energy and vibrant personality.I know that he is with GOD in Heaven. Love and Blessings, Sue and Vern Miller

A Memory Shared by: John Palermo
2006-02-23 08:55:08
My memory of Tom is simply talking guitars with him when I would drop off my Taylors for him to do his magic. My son and his performed together at Brundage Park Playhouse, which is how I heard about Tom. His son is his dad's biggest fan. John Palermo Randolph, NJ

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE O
2006-01-12 11:45:51
HEY TOM...HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY...STILL IN MY HEART AND CONSTANTLY ON MY MIND...YOUR ALOT OF MY INSPIRATION IN MY PLAYING AND IN MY LIFE IN GENERAL...I CANT FIND PARTS OR ANY GOOD PEOPLE THAT HAVE HALF A CLUE...IGUESS ITS TIME TO USE ALL THE TRICKS YOU SHOWED ME OVER THE LAST 30...I LOVE AND MISS YOU TOM....CHARLIE O

A Memory Shared by: Tara Barth Fitz
2006-01-11 12:51:08
They say the eyes are the light of the soul...Dad's eyes always sparkled...even when his brows were furrowed after a long day of work. I didn't see him as often as I might have liked as a kid or an adult. I continue to be fascinated by the outpouring of affection along with the colorful stories about a boy, a young man and a friend who was truly loved by all who met him. To think that I used to wish he had a briefcase and tie job like the other Dad's!! The real work was happening at the Music Box. Life changing stuff. Important stuff. The memories that all of you have taken a few minutes to share are priceless to me in so many ways. It reflects his life through your eyes. It is written in your voice for me to give to his Grandsons when they ask, "Tell me another story about Poppy." It has been comforting, surprising and sorrowful. Often I have thought to myself, "Ah, that is why he did, this or that." OR "Wow, I never knew that!" OR even "Geez, my Dad?" It is often said greater clarity or understanding of another person comes after they are no longer with you. How true. Grief is one process, regret another. I realize however, through all of the posts, the kind of guy he was. There is solace knowing he knew how I felt without having heard it himself. My sons keep his memory alive in subtle ways: Zany humor, fierce athleticism, love of nature and the most endearing by Brian whose musical ear is just 4: "Who is that on the radio, Mom? Eric Clapton, I said. He's weally good.... he then followed up with a little air guitar riff!" We'll see you when we see you!

A Memory Shared by: Jack Norris
2006-01-09 09:03:01
I last talked to Tom in June of 2005. I had felt with his tremendous optimism that he would overcome his ailment. The Lord wanted Tom's contributions more. I was most saddened to learn of his passing when I was going to come up in December. I had many fond memories of Tom over the years. He brought me back to playing guitars and we did some "Martin" business together in addition to having fun on Saturday afternoons...with Red Knob Bob occassionally sharing a brew and a sandwich. I will miss Tom very much. His humor and happiness with his family were infectious. His laugh priceless. The Tommy Hawk in my family room is a constant reminder of his humanity. Take care, Tom.

A Memory Shared by: Nancy
2006-01-06 05:10:33
Happy Birthday, Tom. We miss you.

A Memory Shared by: Dan Del Fiorentino
2005-12-30 12:24:20
Tom was indeed an innovator. His designs and even simple repair work had the elements of craftmenship and skillful talent. He was also one of the most helpful people I have ever asked a dumb question to. He will be missed and my heart goes out to the love of his life, Nancy and his many friends around the world.

A Memory Shared by: Ace Toscano
2005-12-19 04:30:36
It was summer, 1960. School had been out a couple weeks, Tom, I, and a few dozen other North Dover stallworths were competing in the playground's annual drive for points. At the end of the year the point leaders would get a prize of some sort. At least I think there were prizes involved - I never was a point leader, so I wouldn't know. Anyway, there were two divisions, one for younger kids, the other for kids over 13. I had started the year in the kids' group but a few weeks into the season I had my 13th birthday. This presented a real dilemma for me. For the first time, I was actually doing well in the points race, but I knew that if I got switched to the older group I would once again be a loser. I kept my mouth shut and remained near the top in the points race. My nearest competitor was Tommy, a mere 10 year old. I don't know how it happened, maybe I had a sore arm, but one week he beat me in the baseball distance throw and surpassed me in total points. I never showed up again, opting instead for a life of crime.

A Memory Shared by: Bruce Benwitt
2005-12-11 14:23:14
My earliest memories of Tom are of him riding me on the handlebars of his bicycle when I was in Kindergarden. Later, in my teens, I spent many a Saturday afternoon trying out basses at Tempo Music. Tom always grabbed a guitar and joined in. He was an incredible musician and an all around wonderful person. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy to his family.

A Memory Shared by: Lennie Joseph
2005-12-07 11:10:24
Its hard to believe that Tom is gone. I used to stop and see him in his rt 15 store almost every day. He showed me the Darth Varder and the little acoustic guitars he built, he was such a great guy, and what a guitarist! All of the music stores in the area knew him. His persona was a warm, open one, and he had a magic about him that not very many people had. I will sadly miss him.

A Memory Shared by: CHARLIE OHLWEILER ( CHARLIE O )
2005-11-28 08:44:45
SOMETIMES ITS HARD JUST TO IMAGINE THAT TOMMY IS GONE...BUT THERE ARE TONS OF MEMORIES FROM 30 YEARS OF GREAT MUSICIANS AND GREAT TIMES..I THINK THE BEST ONES ARE JUST FROM SITTING AROUND THE OLD STORE WITH TOM AND TED,BOBBY DAY AND RICKY M...THERE WERE TIMES WHEN THE LAUGHTER WAS DEAFENING AND THE ANTICS WERE CRAZY...SOFTBALL GAMES AND DIFFERENT SHOWS...ALL WERE JUST THE BEST TIMES THAT LIFE HAD TO OFFER..IT WAS A GREAT GROUP OF FOLKS,WITH TOMMY RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF ALL OF IT..I CHERISH ANYTHING THAT REMINDS ME OF TOM AND THE GROUP OF LUNATICS THAT WERE MAIDEN CANE,BLACKFOOT,MOLLY CRIB,AND SOUTHERN CROSS,AMONG A ZILLION OTHERS WHO ALL IM SURE HAVE PLEASANT MEMORIES AND GET A GOOD BELLY LAUGH WHEN THINKING BACK..MY BAND MEMBERS AND I PLAYED A GIG LAST WEEK,AFTER WE FINISHED OUR GIG MY BASS PLAYER WALLY WREDE AND I LOOKED TO THE HEAVENS AND LET TOMMY KNOW WE WERE THINKING ABOUT HIM..I BELIEVE HES PROBABLY LOOKING DOWN,CHECKING OUT THE GIGS THAT WE ARE ALL PLAYING...YEAH EVEN YOU RICK..PEACE TO ALL..KEEP HIM IN YOUR LIVES..AND HIS FAMILY..NANCY HAS A BIG SUPPORT GROUP IN US..BE SURE TO LET HER KNOW,AND GIVE WHERE YOU CAN...THEY ARE FAMILY...THX TOM...CHARLIE O..

A Memory Shared by: E.J vilade
2005-11-27 16:02:24
Tom is my uncle I remember him as a funny cheerful person. He is so special to me he was a really good guitar player. He loved the yankees. He will always be in my heart.

A Memory Shared by: BILL SEEGER
2005-10-28 10:31:59
Tom and I grew up together in North Dover.We went to school together from kindergarten on up.I'll always remember playing kickball & football after school at the playground,mushball in the summers against East Dover,Southside and Princeton Ave. playgrounds.Tom was one of the big reasons Dover Little League was formed and King Field was built.We played the first game there for Nicks Garage,Tom pitched a no-hitter and if I remember right,hit the first homerun over the fence there.He was always a very good athlete.Then came The Beatles.When we started going to East Dover School in 7th grade,we would meet mornings and walk to school together.One morning he showed up carrying a guitar.I think it was an old Silvertone.I thought it was the neatest thing I ever saw.That was why I started to play.We started a band in High School that his brother Bill named Swami's Army with Paul Ferguson,Joe Guerra and Dennis Mack.Over the years we would hang out at Johnny Tempo's & Toms stores in Dover,Ledgewood and Roxbury.A visit to his stores was like seeing an old friend after a long time.He would always have something to show you from when we were kids.I'm going to miss the visits talking about the old days,music and The Yankees.Tom was one of the best and we will all miss him very much.

A Memory Shared by: Al (Peppy) Porfido
2005-10-22 12:30:21
Tom and I go back many years, we graduated high school together. I was a motor head back then and Tom alwas reminded me of my 68 Firebird. I was considering getting a guitar and had mentioned it to Tom a couple of different times. I finally bought my guitar in June 2004 and went right to Tom for lessons. My fingers were a little fat for the guitar so Tom came up with the idea of a wider neck. He found one for me and made it playable. I took lessons on and off depending if Tom was well enough to work, till June of 05. My lessons seemed more of a weekly reunion and we mostly talked a lot about old times. I did learn a bit and every time I pick up the guitar I think of Tom. I was fortunate enough to snap off a few photos of Tom in June 05. The memories I have of Tom will be treasured. Tom will always be a "CLASS ACT".

A Memory Shared by: Sir Clyde Crashcup
2005-10-18 08:20:34
Difficult to say what Tommy's greatest quality was given the fact that he had so may wonderful ways about him. But at this moment, the one that comes immediately to mind is his unique ability for bringing people together. He somehow saw the similarities among his many friends, and how his introducing particular ones to each other could create a very positive reaction and cause magical things to happen. Think about it...surely you have made a friend or two through Tommy. I know for a fact that he brought the members of the "Cover To Cover" band together, and that it continues to be an enriching experience not only for the band itself but also for their families and friends as well. Making music in a band is an incredible feeling, and I'm sure that we would all agree that the one thing which would make it even more enjoyable would be to have Tom twangin' his magic twanger along side us. It is both a pleasure and a privilege to have known Tom Barth.

A Memory Shared by: Jay Lovas(Bowlbyville Boy)
2005-10-12 17:54:39
I have had a difficult time with Losing Tom, he was a great friend, who was the center of our annual Bowlbyville reunions. He always had a smile,a good word for everyone, and such a positive attitude toward life. The memories that we shared as a group are far too many to write here. The one I will never forget was at our reunion at Picatinny Arsenal when we finally, some thirty plus years later, elevated Tom to the status of THE T-SHIRT KID and gave him a t-shirt stating so. I will never forget his smile. We always told Tom and I quote: " No matter how hard you try, through all your endeavors, you will never become a T-Shirt Kid". As long as I am around, the Annual Bowlbyville reunions will continue and we will always raise a toast to Tom, Cousin Joe, Cousin George, and Cousin Patrick, to their memories and all the laughs, fun, trouble that we shared as a tight group of friends. I will forever love Tom and miss him as I do all those who have passed above. Our next reunion will be in the Spring, I will reach out to everyone, and hope everyone can make it. Jay

A Memory Shared by: Eric Muller
2005-10-10 18:53:35
I actually played in a band with Tom about a hundred years ago. It was the totally forgotten but unlamented "Jack Rabbit" band with Marty Schmalenberg, Allan John, and myself. We all met Tom when he still worked at Tempo Music in Dover back in the early 70's. The band didn't last long. But we will all remember what a wonderful guy Tom was, and going to gigs with our equipment loaded in his blue '49 Chevy Sedan Delivery truck. Now my son plays guitar and owns a "TommyHawk". That little guitar has a lot more meaning to me now as a keepsake of great memories from all those years ago.

A Memory Shared by: Missy Boyle
2005-10-06 10:39:58
I'll never forget Mine Hill Day 12 years ago when Tom and Cristen took the stage. Cristen who was 7 or 8 at the time sang a song while Tom played the guitar. I remember, as the organizer of the day, looking around at the crowd just standing still, tears rolling down their cheeks. What a sight to see and what a sound to remember, father and daughter together. Thank you Tom and Cristen.

A Memory Shared by: Matt Evangelisti
2005-10-05 20:48:55
Truely an amazing man. He was my guitar teacher for quite a wile, one of the best. We had fun together...struming away every wed for a half hour. We would joke and have fun. Hope to see you again. Many great memories... -Matt

A Memory Shared by: John Vassiliou
2005-10-05 16:30:06
Tommy,Tommy,Tommy,Father,Husband,Son,Brother,Friend,Sweetheart,Gentle Sweet Spirit, We will see you again. My earliest memeory of Tom was him showing up at the Royal Hotel with his brothers to see Blackfoot in 1970. Always encouraging and always a friend. I can remember going over to Tommy and Barbara's apartment when she was pregnant with Tara. I will never forget his excitement over the coming baby. He kept rubbing her belly over and over saying he couldn't wait. At that age and day and especially for a bunch of rocknrollers we would all have been looking for a way out and he stood there all proud and bragging about his coming newborn. How the world has changed. You are stardust, you are golden and I can't wait to see you again.

A Memory Shared by: bob solberg
2005-10-01 10:50:38
So many memories.where do i start. Meeting tom being a sophmore at d.h.s.playing on the baseball team.Traveling with the varsity team on the bus to their next big win on the way to a state chamionship,singing laughing all the way home. Getting out of the house,picking Rob up and going to tom's place to babysit Tara when she was a baby.Throwing Allman Bros. "live at the fillmore" on the record player and playing it over and over again.From the time that record came out it stayed on tom's stereo--- it seemed like forever. He really loved that album. The early Music Box days in ledgewood,Blackfoot coming in on a sat. afternoon ,picking guitars off the wall and plugging them in, Gizzy in the back working his electronic genius, guitar players from all over walking in talking about bands and guitars. I bought many great guitars from Tommy, then trading them in for maybe something better.Tommy always had great old Gibson electrics and the price was always right.He was a muscian for muscians and knew what we wanted. We were friends and when we didn"t see each other for a while we picked up right where we left off. i will miss him, he was a big piece of our whole family puzzle and one day our pieces will all come together again. love Bob Solberg

A Memory Shared by: Paul Fisher
2005-09-28 11:02:07
I met Tom around '92 or '93 (who can remember!), first as a customer and, like all of us, quickly becoming a valued friend. I doubt anyone ever met Tom and wasn't immediately made to feel like a friend and comrade. Tom not only made you sound better, but made you feel better in the process. Not much more can be said, that hasn't been said already - he was an inspiration and example on how it all should be done. My deepest sympathy to Tom's family, our thoughts are with you every day. THANK YOU, Tom, you will be sorely missed.

A Memory Shared by: Steve Peer
2005-09-26 06:28:32
I had to be one of Tom's original "groupies". I was only 5 or 4 years younger than Tom, however he was a musical giant when I was 13 years old. He had a band, a PA system and really cool lights. Unlike so many others, Tom was intense...in a good way. He was confident, clear eyed and able to really play his instrument. Was it the Wharton battle of the bands, the CYO dances at the Catholic church in Dover? It doesn't matter, but my earliest memories of live rock'n'roll include Paul Revere and The Raiders, The Doors, Hendrix and Tom Barth. Things get fuzzy for a couple of years and next thing I know The Music Box becomes the center of the universe. I am teaching drums at the store, and I am part of a world that Tom is creating for us all to enjoy. I did not know it then, but he must have been under an enormous amount of stress and pressure. The rest of us were having a wonderful time. We were either teaching or hanging out. Tom made it look so easy and effortless. He did not wear the burden of running a business on his sleeve, and most of us were either to self absorbed to notice or too stupid to know any better. Tom was the man, the grown-up, the guy responsible for creating this scene where creativity converged with commerce. The Music Box was for musicians much like the coffee house was for poets, except we seldom paid for the coffee. It has been 20-some years since I last saw Tom. That is almost unforgiveable. Yes, time goes by and by....faster everyday. I know Tom had a wealth of quality friends and I was just a minor character in one of the chapters, however I miss him dearly. I still play rock 'n'roll, and I am often the oldest audience member as I take my daughters to shows. As I sit behind by drumkit or stand for hours at a show, my mind wanders, and there has not been a time when I have not wandered back into the show rooms of the Music Box and thought about the great Tom Barth.

A Memory Shared by: Dave Williams
2005-09-24 12:16:21
It was the early 70s and our band, Stooed, had been together for perhaps a year when the other guitarist (Bill Fuellhart) introduced me to Tommy. These were times when most music stores had a ?vibe? of ?impress me, please?, but not the Music Box. I was immediately taken with Tommy?s friendliness and genuine nature - He would take the time and effort to make you feel like more than just a customer and it wasn?t long before he became someone I could call ?friend?. For the next couple of years we made a least one trip a week to the Music Box. Years later, whenever I?d visit him at one of the new locations, we?d pick up the conversation as though no time had passed ? I?ll remember Tommy and I?ll miss him.

A Memory Shared by: Ervin DeJesus
2005-09-23 14:51:34
"You're gonna be great," was what Tom told me when I had my final guitar lesson from him, about three or four years ago. I don't know why that quote from him has stuck in my head for this long a time, and also, being the great teacher he is, I'm not sure if he tells every student that. But I've always respected his comments, for the obvious reasons, he's a musician that knows what he's talking about. I enjoyed dropping by his shop to have a chat, he was a great converse, this to the point that he has to drive me away, in his usual nice demeanor, because he has tons of work to do. We'd talk about guitars, Jeff Beck, the blues greats, Chet Atkins... all that good stuff. The great thing about Tom is that he can play all those styles, with apparent ease. He can play Chet like a fiddle. Never have I encountered anyone that played that kind of style. He was a very humble and modest man, he never wanted to show off his skills, admirably and sadly at the same time, because I/we would have listened to him all day. He told me once that he didn't want to play in front of his students the way he can, because he didn't want them to watch him and get discouraged. And it was the truth. What a teacher! I was very fortunate, however, to have heard him play the last time I saw him. He was jamming with his brother, at first playing guitar, then switching to bass. It was a nice goodbye from him. A so so sudden one, but nice nonetheless.

A Memory Shared by: Gail Vilade
2005-09-21 22:13:54
It's nearly impossible to look back over the last 20+ years and choose a favorite memory.....we have so many. For many years we vacationed with Nancy, Tom, Cristin, Tommy and Tara before she married and moved to NC. One of my favorite memories of Tom was on vacation at LBI around 1986. He'd brought a Zim-Zam (a pole with a ball on a rope that you hit with paddles). One night after dinner he set it up in the back yard and we had a contest. My father had one of the first video cameras and Tom (ham that he was) narrated the contest as Howard Cosell. He was a natural at that sort of thing. It's difficult to understand why someone so vibrant and alive can be taken from us before their time. I know that I have taken lessons over the last year from Tom....lessons of courage and humor in the face of the worst adversity. We are all better for having known Tom, but broken hearted that he left us too soon.

A Memory Shared by: Mike Chinery
2005-09-21 17:27:33
The things I will remember (and miss) most about Tom Barth are the little things. I will miss exchanging jokes with the Monday night crew, the casual lunches, trying new beers with him, and smoking little cigars. I will miss talking about every aspect of music, or the latest on the Yankees. I will miss the way he lit up when he spoke of things like his daughters softball exploits, or his sons music, or Dover. A few years back, I had him build a 12 string ?Little Big Hawk? for a friend. He allowed me to watch every step of the process. You could see the passion and precision as he crafted each piece of the guitar. In his usual manner, he made me feel like I was actually contributing in some small way (which I wasn?t). It is not every day that one gets the privilege to watch a master craftsman at work, let alone one with a keen sense of humor. Memories of Tom Barth ?I feel extremely fortunate to have gathered so many in such a short time. My sincerest condolences go to Nancy and the entire Barth family. Vaya con dios buddy, we shall meet again.

A Memory Shared by: Blair (Rocky) McClune
2005-09-20 08:06:10
It was raining the miserable dreary kinda rain that sucks the soul from you late September 1977. North Jersey friday night traffic signal lights burned out and I was feeling about the same. I was divorced turning thirty and broke. Just out of the Army and flying 12 on and 12 off six days a week; I was exhausted. Everything I owned in the world fit nicely into a the front seat of a pickup truck. Traffic was horrible on main roads so I went a different way to my dismal basement apt. in Netcong NJ. I saw this little Music store and since I had no where to be and knew nobody within a hundred miles, I stopped. There began a friendship that pulled me up out of the dumps. The owner was there all alone and seemed genuinely interested in what I had to say. One bright spot in my life was the immaculate 1959 model Martin D28 I had bought for a couple hundred a week after returning from my tour in Vietnam 1969. I had it in the truck so I went out and brought it in. Tom replaced the Black Diamond strings and sanded the bridge. He tuned it up and showed me how good the thing could sound. I had five tunes I could play with some competence and that was virtually all I had ever heard come from that sound hole. He could make such a beautiful noise with that old flat top. I grabbed some snacks and a couple six packs (twelve pack unheard of at this time)and followed Tom to Port Murray. He picked up his Everly Bros. Gibson and we played. He showed me more in an hour than I had learned since I started playing at 14. His wife "Dempsey" bore an uncanny resemblence to Jennifer Connely. Tara was sound asleep. We had a nice visit and I got lost trying to get back to Netcong on the back roads directions Barbara gave me. The next few weeks I met the guys from Blackfoot and some characters like Denny from "Denny and the Pirates". I think Billy was in England, but I met Rob who was artistic and a good musician in his own right. TV TOY if I remember correctly. I saw them debut at the Stanhope House and one other place. We made it a point to watch SNL whenever possible and read the Lampoon. Tom had a kinda laugh that was infectious. He could see humor in the Stooges and even more sofisticated stuff. I always felt like I was imposing on his time. Keeping the schedule he kept was what payed for the Suburban, Montessori(sp)School, Mercedes, and remodeling a neat old house in PM. It seemed to me a priviledge and an honor to have know this guy. He came to visit from time to time when my girlfiend Marilyn and I lived in an old house in Morristown. My girlfiend worked at the Wick House in the National Battlefield park and Tom put on the Smokey Bear hat once what a hoot. There was a High School Baseball Diamond a block away and once I hit Tom fly balls and hard grounders half an hour. He could play ball as well as he played the Six. I can't say we were best friends Tom had too many people in his life to play favorites. He did seem sincerely glad to hear from me whenever I called and I was glad to get a note from him at Christmas and see how blessed he was with the good looking talented family in which he took such pride. Tom once took me to meet his tiny Grandma she reached up to pat my shoulder and asked me if I had come to paint the ceiling. He loved some songs more than others for one "(Sandy) 4th of July Asbury Park". I liked his rendition as well as the original, mostly down at Barnagut Light(sp?) My father Passed away May of 2003. I wrote a poem over the last years of his life captured the essence of his life and love. Tom Barth put it to Music and sent it back to me on a CD. I played it for the family there wasn't a dry eye in the house. I wish for him a 57 Chevy and new strings....

A Memory Shared by: Ken Palovitz
2005-09-20 06:55:16
I have known Tom Barth since grade school in the North Dover Elementry School. Even then as a grade school student, Tommy was a class act. We played baseball together from the Dover Little League right on through High School. I never did get a hit off of him, If you can't see the ball how can you hit it? Like Tom, I have always had a Guitar in my hands and have bought several from his store. While Tom was at his Route# 15 Dover/Bowlbyville address, I took lessons from him. The above mentioned store was indeed a treat to anyone interested in music, local history or being treated to a good laugh. I will never forget Tom's Laughter, As it could light up an entire room! I could go on forever in this posting but will close with this, Tommy is truly the kind of person one will never forget & will go on in peoples minds & hearts all through thier lives. My life is a better place having known Tom and having the privilege of calling him a friend! In a recent newspaper article a reporter spoke of Tom's Pride of being from Dover and in particular the Bowlbyville area. The Town Of Dover And The people of Bowlbyville should be, and I know are proud to say Tom is native son of this fine community. My Prayers and heartfelt sorrow go to Tom's family and all who loved and enjoyed him... Thank you for everything Tommy! KP

A Memory Shared by: Brie Sherry
2005-09-18 11:55:56
I only met Tom once,and it was at my dad's funeral service in June.I was getting a drink of water,and Tom came over to me and introduced himself,and he said,I'm so sorry to hear about your loss.We started talking,and before you knew it,he had me laughing! Here, he was sick,and made me feel better.I will never forget that. I want to tell the family I am so sorry he passed,remember all the good times,he will always be with you. (I am Leslie Goryeb's sister)

A Memory Shared by: Jim Luckey
2005-09-17 15:12:09
In the 70s I was looking to buy an electric guitar and someone told me of a shop in Ledgewood called The Music Box. I drove up there with a friend to see what they had. I met Tommy and ultimately bought a beautiful Gibson SG from him, (damn, I wish I had that old plank now). Anyway, I remember how friendly he was and that Tara was in a baby bucket sitting on the counter and Robbie was a little kid. That day started a friendship that lasted ???? well, forever. Tom later moved into my house, the infamous Cricket Hill, met my sister Nancy, married her and the rest is history. FREEDOM was one of the bands that came out of that period. Tommy, Kevin, Randy and I bashed out originals like there was no tomorrow. Tom was so proud of that band. The Stanhope House, Max?s Kansas City, Kenny?s Castaways, The Bitter End, The Boonton Theater show and lots of forgotten places. He would often jump off the stage while playing, right onto a table where people were sitting. Sometimes he didn?t make it. Very often he?d end up wearing someone?s drink. But it was about having a good time and damn it, that?s what he was going to do. One day Tom asked me to come up to the shop after work and jam with some guys. There he introduced me to Stan Penridge from Kiss. I spent 2 years with the Kiss guys after that and I owe it to Tommy. But Tom would do things like that all the time for people and think nothing of it. Many times I went into the shop he?d show me some cool little thing he found and we?d laugh like hell about it. Mostly things from childhood memories that we shared or new found old music. Sometimes he?d just give me stuff that he had for awhile and needed room for new stuff. Boy he had a lot-o-stuff. There are many things you could say about Tom but a few come to mind that sum it up for me. Tom loved what he did, loved to share it, loved to laugh, loved his family and loved his friends. Rest in peace brother. Keep on ROCKIN.

A Memory Shared by: Cyndi Caserta
2005-09-16 15:03:55
My memories of Tom will always warm my heart. I can close my eyes and hear his laughter or a song at all the family picnics and parties. I will always treasure that he and Nancy asked me to sing at thier wedding 21 years ago and I'm honored to have been choosen to be young Tom's godmother. I remember how at their wedding I caught the bouquet and volia~ I was the next married! I remember the special song he sang that day just for Nancy to make her feel as if she was the only one in the room. He had a way of giving people that special attention when they needed it. Tom will be missed dearly but, never forgotten.....I bet he's finding heaven's best treasures in the dumps up there!

A Memory Shared by: Gregory Porraro
2005-09-16 13:34:50
I had the good fortune of knowing Tom for a very short time.I was lucky to be introduced to him by a good friend of mine Rick Goryeb.During our lunch together as we shared stories with each other,I realized how genuine and kind Tom was.I couldn't help feeling how comfomforting that made me feel.It is rare to feel so connected with anyone in such a short time,and when it happens to you ,you feel lucky in life.I'm glad to have known Tom ,for he will live on with me.

A Memory Shared by: Deanna DiGiovine
2005-09-15 20:44:41
My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go to the entire Barth Family. I have been a witness to Tom's love of sports and music through his children and I know there was not a moment that went by that he wasn't a proud Father and Husband to his family. I recall all the silly stories Cristin would share with me in dance class about "My Dad and I this and my Dad and I that." It was evident in his character that he was a 'great' man...true to his craft, home, family and heart. Tom, may you rest in peace and know that our prayers for eternal happiness are with you. Your spirit will live on in all the lives you've touched.

A Memory Shared by: Gil LeDuc
2005-09-15 20:10:40
Nancy, My sincerest heartfelt sympathy to you and all of Tom's family on his passing. My fondest memories of him is when he helped me obtain my first real electric guitar(Les Paul)when I was 16 years old. I walked to his store (then in Ledgewood) and was awed by the company of wonderful musicans that worked and had business with him. Tom allowed me to pay him on a schedule since I couldnt afford the outright purchase of the Paul. I spent the summer working at a handbag factory in Stanhope and dutifully visited Tom with a payment on a weekly basis that summer of 1976. He was part of my inspiration to develop my skills in playing and I have since pursued songwriting on a commercial level. I am forever grateful to Tom. Truely, he will be dearly missed. Gil LeDuc Ledgewood Member Songwriters Guild of America Nashville Songwriters International Association

A Memory Shared by: James Gregan
2005-09-15 19:40:27
I was very lucky to have hounded Tom for a number of months to make me a Tommyhawk guitar which I received in July of this year. I consider myself mostly lucky because of the numerous conversations I had with Tom about music, guitars, friends he has near me in California and how he hoped we would get to meet in person someday. I got an email from Tom in august re a guitar that he was building for me and just got the news today. I felt that we were fast friends and now I am not only saddened by the passing of a man that showed me a wonderful ease and kindess, I am also sorry that I have to break into my best friend's house and steal back the Tommyhawk that I gave to him a few months ago because I knew that Tom would make me another one and I wanted everyone I loved to have one... To his family: I am grateful for the time I had with Tom. If you are ever in Venice CA, you have a place to stay. Take care of each other.

A Memory Shared by: pete gustavson
2005-09-15 17:44:14
i worked in tom's shop back in 1992 or 93, maybe both. all my first guitars, and a few more since, are tom barth specials - frankensteined into existence by the man himself after some unimaginative soul gave them up for dead, and truth be told, there isn't a single one of them that doesn't still play like a dream. not a day of playing goes by that i don't think of where i started out, noodling away on a scrappy old 1950s kay (soon to become my first serious guitar) behind the counter at the music box, watching the rush hour traffic on route 15 labor by while tom gave lessons in the back. if business was slow on saturday afternoons after lessons, he'd fire up his old four-track so that i could record a song or two that i'd written. i was just getting into writing my own music, and his enthusiasm spurred me onward. he was always there to make suggestions when i was in a creative bind, and he always encouraged me to try something new, try something different, take a chance when it was easier or more readily acceptable not to - a mindset always so apparent in his own work. i consider tom to be my mentor, the man who taught me what i needed to know about music and people in order to get where i wanted to go and be who i wanted to be. i am sure, though, that tom himself would never have taken credit for having such an impact on my life and my art. he was the kindest, sweetest, most genuine and above all most humble soul that i have ever met. i was one of his boys back in the early 90s - along with danny and ken - and i know that his interest and attention gave me much-needed affirmation and confidence in myself. for that and so many other things i will never stop thinking of him, and never stop thanking him. it is hard to lose you, tom. but we are all here as your legacy, your footprint on the world, living proof that you were here with a mighty roar, and we will carry your spirit on with us. and i'll never forget the mine hill day concert in the field behind canfield ave school - you and the gang ripping a roaring blues jam through eight modulations, an entire octave of chord changes without missing a beat, and without losing a smile. let's face it - even chuck berry couldn't get his band to do that.

A Memory Shared by: Clare DeChiara
2005-09-15 11:07:09
My sister Lisa and Tom?s wife Nancy have been friends forever. As long as I can remember Nancy was part of our family. I really don?t remember the first time I met Tom. At one of the many gatherings at our house, he was just there, and has been ever since. I have so many memories of Tom; this is one of my favorites. I had been moving around for a couple of years from one place to another so I was not around that much. It had been a while since I had seen Tom. This one particular night I was out on a date. We decided to try this place called the Thirsty Moose on Rt. 15. When we walked in Tom was about to start playing, I look over at him and said to my date ?Hay I know that guy?, my date turned to me and said ?yea sure?. We were shown to a table just in front of the stool Tom was sitting on and as I sat down, in mid stream of his song, he turned to me, with a big smile, a nod and said ?Hay?.How you doing?. Between songs the three of us exchanged words from time to time and of course my date thought it was just because we were sitting directly in front of him. After his set he put down his guitar, walked over to the table and gave me a big hug and kiss on the cheek. He has always had this energy around him and he made me feel like a million bucks. Needless to say it was impressive to my date as well. I last saw Tom in April when I was back in Jersey for a family wedding when I first saw him it felt like that night at the Thirsty Moose. That is how Tom was, it did not matter when he last saw you, and he always made you feel like a million bucks.

A Memory Shared by: Aunt Gerri
2005-09-14 18:36:23
I too have many memories with Tom at our annual summer pool parties. Many of the years we had these Tom and Nancy didn't have a pool so swimming in our was a treat for them. You could count on Tom to be the last one out of the pool. I can close my eyes and see him floating along with a beer in one hand and a cigar in his mouth just loving every drop of water. Tom and I shared a name. It was only a short time ago that I learned his middle name was Gerald so we shared Gerry. We will miss this kind, gentle ,witty man.

A Memory Shared by: Dale Thriemer-Burns
2005-09-14 18:25:50
I am a cousin to Tom Barth currently living in Illinois. My sister and I just recently heard of his passing. His grandmother and our grandmother were sisters. I grew up in Dover in the big house on the hill with the Christmas star. When the grandmothers were still living we all did get together occasionally. My mental picture of Tommy is of a good looking (2 years younger)cousin who was actually a nice kid, not a pest as most boy cousins can be with that age difference! I am truly sorry that as a family we had lost all contact. I had never met his wife and children and my deepest sympathies are with them.

A Memory Shared by: Aunt Kitty
2005-09-14 18:19:50
Our family picnics at my sister Gerri home in Newton is when we always had the fun with Tom. Some how when Tom & I would get together we kinda of matched our witty humor off one another.We had a 90th birthday party for our Mom, Nanny, Nana(Mom Grandmother, Great Grandmother). We had our own band and Tom was singing to Nana and the song was"This will be the last time".Gail, Gerri and a few others started laughing.That was some song for a 90year old person. I went up to Tom while he was singing into the mike and I whispered to him about the title and he stopped singing for one second and said "opps", continued to finsh with great difficulty as we were all laughing by them but Mom never got it so that was the best part., We all loved Tom and never knew he made such a difference in so many lives. He had a gift,God loved him and everyone that knew him loved him too.

A Memory Shared by: Mary Ellen (aka Mert)Yuhas Shapiro
2005-09-14 17:04:49
I hardly know where to begin to talk about Tommy Barth. We go back to kindergarten (1955) and my memory of Tom as a handsome, funny, very energetic superkid. I can remember going to watch him play baseball (Nick's Garage) behind North Dover Elementary. He was truly my first crush. Being a Bowlbyville girl there was a sense of neighborhood and knowing we cared about each other even if we didn't always hang out together or see each other for years. I remember in high school encouraging Tom to get in the school plays because of his vocal talent. He played Uncle Max in the Sound of Music (what stage presence) and to this day when I watch that movie or play I think of him, and I always will. After high school, I moved away and hadn't seen Tom until our 20 year h.s. reunion and I got a big kiss. After all those years of not seeing each other the bond and caring and admiration was still very present. I kept up with some of Tom's achievements through my family esp my nephews who took guitar lessons from him. They adored Tom and now have a great love of music. What a great thing he passed onto so many people. I am deeply saddened by this loss. The Barth Family will be ingrained in my memory as very distinguished, special people.

A Memory Shared by: Bill Davis
2005-09-14 15:17:00
I had been looking for a guitar instructor upgrade in, I believe, 1993. I had been going to a retired grammar school teacher for four years, and he still believed he could get me to sight read. That had stifled my spontaneity, though, and my friend Bill Rude recommended Tom. One short phone conversation with Tom and I went to the store in Bowlbyville and never looked back. Tom just sat and worked with me on whatever material I wanted. Neil Young, CSN, Hendrix, Santana, Gorka?long list. I am not much for psychic stuff, but I had a connection with Tom. I would have a song in mind when I got there, and quite often he would have it queued up, or play some riffs as I walked in, sometimes just from the same album (CD). The really important things he taught me were rhythm, timing and technique. And of course riffs. If he could hear one he didn?t know, he would figure it out for me. They?re not always obvious, at least to me. The Bowlbyville shop had an old time ambience that I thought could not be transplanted when the move came, but it did indeed successfully migrate to the Roxbury shop, which still felt like home. It was all the old stuff, and of course the irrepressible Tom, that made the place, wherever it was. The cash register, the monkey card holder, all the photos, signed and unsigned, with guitar friends and luminaries from all walks; the many and sundry luthierwares. New old stuff would appear weekly and keep me busy gawking and laughing while I waited for whoever was before me to finish their lesson. I perused his photo frames a hundred times. It was usually ? kids, forgive me ? a kid in front of me. They would clear out and then Tom would crack a beer for my lesson. He always offered me one?I generally declined as I needed a third hand. He liked the darker beers, as I found out in bringing him the occasional cold sample of exotic brew. When I started with Tom, I was on Thursday, the last lesson of the day. Later I moved to Wednesday, still the last of the day. Sometimes work would keep me late, and I usually remembered to call. At least on Thursday nights in Bowlbyville, Tom would go down the street to his Mom?s for dinner, sometimes spaghetti. We called that Prince Spaghetti day (for those who remember the TV commercial), and if I called it meant Tom could go home early for dinner. After a while, if I called, I would simply say ?Hey Anthony? and Tom would know he was off the hook a half hour early. Later when I switched to Wednesday it really became the right day, according to the commercial. (OK, you had to be there.) A great thing about the shop was the regulars and irregulars, people like Ken and Bob who were like fixtures, and the cavalcade of players who came in with detuned or broken instruments. Tom always had a story, memory or positive attribute to mention about his friends and clientele. That?s the one incredible shining aspect that struck me, obvious though it may be. I simply had never voiced it....this man had absolutely NOTHING NEGATIVE about him. And he had an innate ability to note the negative when he saw it, shrug and move on. Way to be. I?m happy my family had the opportunity to know Tom and his family from the Music Box and from rubbing shoulders in Roxbury and at the schools. My son also took a few bass lessons from Tom, with a Cort bass we had just bought from him, when he got back to instructing for a little while not too long back. Tom was going to make me a special TommyHawk when he got better. In closing ? Tom is in my thoughts, as he is in the minds of the many he has touched. His laughter, jokes, stories, riffs ? they just keep resonating and I hope it stays that way. I hope the memories linger long after the grief fades. I always want the ability to transport myself to that chair, Tom a few feet away with his Bondo-fixed acoustic, or his Barth Vader, wetting his whistle and full of happiness, encouraging words and soul-filling sounds. Goodbye Tom ol? buddy. I am always your student ? you were great at guitar and life. Bill Davis Roxbury, NJ Longest standing TB student, by my reckoning

A Memory Shared by: Whitney Johnson
2005-09-14 14:26:25
A couple of Winters ago I joined my friend David Davenport at the Music Box where he was getting an old Hagstrum guitar fixed up.Dave was going to give it to his brother Jimmy who owned it as a kid. Tom said he remembered selling Mrs Davenport the very same guitar back in what had to be the early 70's!!!While the snow was falling and the Christmas music ringing,Tom played the most beautiful guitar licks I had ever heard.We all knew we had better get going with it being the Holidays but the laughter and storytelling was having a tough time stopping.I only met Tom a few times but I know my life is better for it.

A Memory Shared by: Rob Fritz
2005-09-14 09:24:24
I only met Tom a few times but I'll never forget him.....Here's my story. My dad used to work near Dover NJ and passed this little music store on his way. He always told me I would like it and I should check it out. I was looking to buy a banjo so I thought I'd take the drive. I walked in and instantly fell in love with the store. Those of you who rebmember the old store would know what I am talking about. It had all the "stuff" guitar junkies, like me, love to look at, play and just be around. A little piece of heaven right there in New Jersey if you ask me. I looked around and noticed Tom over in the corner working on a drill press. I said "Hi" and he asked in a friendly voice if he could help me. I told him what I was looking for while doing so I noticed that he was working on a small guitar top. I asked about it and he explained the "Tommyhawk" to me. What a great little travel guitar. I loved it, but left the store without one and also thinking that Tom had the coolest job in the world. Like most guitar junkies, once you get a guitar on your mind you have to get it or you won't stop thinking about it. So I called him up, about a week later, and asked if he had any at the time. I was glad I waited because what he had to offer me was a "Show Special" Tommyhawk. It's a solid ash version and it bares the serial number 007 as well as Tom's signature on the back and on the inside. It reads "Show Special, Tom Barth 5/19/94". I'm very proud of that guitar. I look at both signitures every time I play the guitar and I will have that guitar forever, as long as I live. After me, my son will have it and I will share the story and memory with him when the time comes. That's why I will never forget Tom. Even though I didn't know him personally as well as others, he'll be one of those people I will never forget. I do know that heaven's string section just got a lot better.

A Memory Shared by: Kate Sobolewski
2005-09-14 07:22:00
All those outrageously fun gigs with "Rockin NJ"...Wharton, Schooley's Mt Inn!!, Boonton, Tommy dancing on the cars and tables with his cordless. the privilege of singing back-ups and harmonies, banging on the cow-bell and tambourine, a la Kate! apres-gig jersey diner adventures.. Paul's 40th surprise party - Tommy and Bob Goldstein sharing stories bout meeting and playin with some of the greats (Bobby Darin!...Bob passed on shortly thereafter). getting together at Tom and Nancy's for Mike's venison dinners, especially when our kids were little. meeting such great people through Tommy and Nancy, great people that they are and will always be in memory and in life.

A Memory Shared by: John Aloisio
2005-09-14 07:02:17
I knew Tom for 25 years. I taught me a lot more than how to play guitar. He was a man that I admired and respected and to this day I consider myself so lucky to have gotten to know such a great man. Over the years, life got in the way of my dreams and I moved out of state. But every trip that I took back home, I made sure I'd stop to see Tom as soon as I got in to town. We'd catch up on the family stuff and play for a little while. By the time it was time to go, it was like I never left town in the first place. Tommy, God bless you and thank you! You have no idea the impression you left on me. To the rest of the Barth family, God bless you as well. The world has lost a great man.

A Memory Shared by: Mark Deckenbach
2005-09-14 05:16:47
I met Tom at Tempo Music sometime around 1970, if my memory is correct at the time he was fixing a Coo Coo Clock (not your standard behind the counter activity!). When he opened the Music Box and had a t-shirt made for the store (the one with the Flying ?V?) I got one of those shirts and wore it constantly (every picture of me from that time period I?m wearing the shirt). I think my wife threw it away when I was at work! Trips to the store with Charlie Mac Crea (sadly another cancer victim) and Rich Zellars were a blast with jokes and friendly busting going on from the minute we walked in ?til we left. One day we walked in and Tom had the ugliest Stratocaster on earth hanging on the wall. It was black with brass studs fake diamonds and pieces of leather glued to it. A Mac Creas reaction was ?What the hell is that?? Tom said, ?That?s a toasty axe? we all broke up in fits of laughter. Toasty Axe? From that day until the last time I spoke to Tom we never used our first names, he was Toasty and so was I. What a great guy, I?m gonna miss that sly smile and wit, going to the music store will never be the same.

A Memory Shared by: Nancy Barth
2005-09-13 19:40:22
I had the good fortune to share 21 years of marriage and 2 children with Tom. Although we are broken hearted to have lost him to such a terrible disease, we are incredibly proud of the kind, gentle, generous, humble man he was. The outpouring of love and support during this last year, and the huge number of people who came to pay their respects are a testament to the effect he had on everyone he came in contact with. His music, his humor, and all the traits that made him special live on in his children and grandchildren, and we will miss him terribly.

A Memory Shared by: roger steinberg
2005-09-13 18:03:35
My memory of tom involves another friend of mine and Tom's. My roomate Kenny was then, and is still, the kind of guy that takes some patience to deal with. When Kenny applied for a job at the old music box store on the Ledgewood circle Tom was able to look past the sort of goofy, "I'll never be on time and some days I may even forget to come to work" persona that Ken clearly exhibited.I'm sure he did forget to go in occasionally too!But Ken was (and is) a talented,well meaning guy. Tom recognized the skill, talent,and heart that just needed a little lattitude to shine. He allways treated Ken and I like family. I hadn't seen Tom in many many years when, about eight months ago, I sought out his shop for some advice regarding my son who has just finished lutherie school. I heard of his illness from one of his teachers. We spoke for a while and he told that things seemed to be looking up a bit for tom and I should check in again in a few weeks. Sadly, since then,I was unable to get back to see him. Fittingly my old pal Kenny was the one who gave me the news of Tom's passing. Tom just allways seemed like a special guy and this time, things are just what they seem.....

A Memory Shared by: Billy Barth
2005-09-13 16:51:36
Tom and I used to play games all the time. Checkers, badminton, croquet and cards. Since he was younger by amost four years, he rarely won, and I never let him win by sympathy. I think back now and realize that almost never winning those games made him want to come out on top in everything later on. He didn't like being the second born, or second in anything he competed in, like music, archery, bowling or baseball. We both loved and played baseball, but he far surpassed my average talent by the time he was 11. I was really proud that he won the junior state championship with his bow and arrows. I guess I unwittingly taught him that you don't get any breaks, and that you have to fight for what you want. My brother was one of life's winners, and loved by so many, not always a guaranteed combination.

A Memory Shared by: Bob Feldman
2005-09-13 16:33:38
It had been many many years since I had spoken to Tom. I lived in NJ for 48 years and moved to Austin TX back in 2001. I just eased into the Texas lifestyle and lost touch with everyone. Somewhere out of the blue a few months ago, the thought popped in my head to track Tom down and say hi. I am so glad I did. It was really great speaking with him and swapping old guitar stories . Tom used to do fretwork on my guitars back in the 70's and we became quite friendly during that time. I have owned a 1954 Strat since 1978 which came with a really beat up original thermometer case that if described as "falling apart", would be considered optimistic at best. One day Tom asked me if he could have the case and I gave it to him along with the remnants of a destroyed 50's blonde Les Paul Special that he wanted to use for research in his quest to build his own guitar line. I remember the day he showed me the first prototype electric guitar he had completed. He was really proud of it. It had a graphic eq built into the body, an idea that is still awesome today in my opinion. One day back in the late 70's Tom called me and said "Man, you are not going to believe the under-the-bed- once in a lifetime Strat I just bought". He had my full attention. And then he uttered those five words all player/collectors want to hear: "I want to sell it". I couldn't have rushed any faster to his store. Oblivious to the traffic and the strategically positioned "speedcops" on Rte. 10, I dodged all bullets and made it to the Music Box in one piece. I bolt into the store and Tom is standing there with this "It's even going to be better than you thought" look on his face. He proudly opens the flawless tweed case and unveils this better than gem mint, brand new smelling, original tagged, sunburst 1958 Stratocaster serial # 30180. I was stunned. My eyes just about popped out of my head. He had just outdone 48th street, Normans Rare Guitars and all the other vintage dealers on the planet! "Can I touch it? Tom said, "here, play it". It was like stepping back in time and we both looked at it and giggled because it was so stupidly perfect. I paid him the $2700 he was asking without flinching an eye. I knew he wasn't going to budge an inch on price and I was so mesmerized by the surreal sight in front of me that I wasn't about to argue with the man. That was a colossal price to pay in those days for a Strat but Tom had found the holy grail of Strats and he knew it. If it is still in the same condition today as it was when I bought it (I sold it in 1987) it would be considered one of the finest if not the finest example in the world. I put the original Music Box of Ledgewood reciept for the guitar in the case when I sold it for documentation and authentication. I'd love to have that piece of paper back. Tom was a great guy and I will miss him. I'm sorry I didn't get back up to NJ this summer as I usually do. I would have stopped by the store and we would have talked about the old days. But I am thankful that I got the urge to call and say hi when I did. The music scene and the world has lost a good soul. I'll miss you Tom, and I am glad I got to know you........Bob F.

A Memory Shared by: Dan Wiliiams
2005-09-13 15:47:28
I remember meeting Tom when we were children on Woodstone Road in Denville. I'm guessing that it was 1956. Tom's grandparents lived across the street from our home and often Billy, Tom and baby Rob would visit. I soon learned what an amazing athlete that Tom was. We played kickball, and it would be just Tom by himself against about five of us. He would get first at- bats and it was game over because we couldn't get him out! It was the first time that I ever heard the term "grand slam." Tommy had MANY that particular day and continued to hit many more throughout his life. He was the first "celebrity" that I ever knew, after all, they named a ball field in Dover "Tom Barth Field" in honor of his prowess. As impressive as that was to me as a child, it was not until years later that I got to know Tom better as an adult. He was simply a joy to be around, never an unkind word about anyone or anything. One thing was for certain when you were with Tom, you were going to be laughing and feeling good! Guaranteed! His spirit will live on as an inspiration to us all!

A Memory Shared by: Bob McElroy
2005-09-13 15:44:42
On my job "interview" with Tommy, I managed to knock the amp I was working on to the floor. And, being the astute busness man he was, Tommy hired me, but not until he renamed me Red Knob Bob in honor of the knobs that flew off when that amp hit the floor. We laughed about that for the 11 years I worked for him. Some of the greatest music in the world is represented on paper by little dots and lines. But the music isn't held captive on the paper. It lives and breathes inside you until you hear it again. Tommy's life is like that. The dates of Tommy's life are just some dots and lines on paper. I can right now hear him playing the Woody Woodpecker theme, and Jingle Bell Rock, and his Pee Herman impersonation, and better yet, him laughing. I just hope he's working on some new material. Hey Tom, how am I?

A Memory Shared by: Son Lewis
2005-09-13 15:24:04
What I can remember most is Tom's sincere ability to always find the best in someone... even when they had stiffed him on a repair bill or neglected to show up for a lesson, he refused to ever say anything bad about them. Tom always went the extra yard... When I asked him to repair my Dobro, I know he made about 15 phone calls to people in the business because it was the first time he had ever worked on one... He got the right answers and fixed it up really nice, but I don't see how he made any money on it, given all the time he spent on "getting it right"

A Memory Shared by: Lisa DeChiara
2005-09-13 15:08:03
I grew up with Tom's wife Nancy. Our kids have grown up together and have been friends since they were born. I've always admired Tom and Nancy's relationship. The respect, love, friendship and laughter that they shared is a testiment to everything that is good about marriage. It seemed that they were always faced with challenges, more than most of us, and through it all there was never a doubt that their relationship with each other was stronger than most. My daughter Lydia wrote in her entry about Tom that she had always wished she had a dad like Tom. What I wish for my kid's and for Cris and Tommy is that they would find a relationship in their lives like Tom and Nancy's. ...and Lydia is right, knowing Tom makes you want to be a better person.

A Memory Shared by: Rick Pearce
2005-09-12 13:58:43
My first memory of Tom was in the late 60's when my band played at a Battle Of The Bands at a beach in Rockaway. There were some very good bands playing. The last band was the Purple Oz. To this day I consider it one the best performances I have ever seen. Tom was a musical influence before I ever met him. I first met Tom when he worked for John Simonski at Tempo Music in Dover. While working there he sold me a great Guild acoustic (I still have it). When he opened the Music Box he really encouraged you to come in sit and hang out. The place was great. Tom always had something new (or old/classic) to show me and he always found time to just sit and talk. I have many good memories but one I can share took place when Tom had his repair shop on Blackwell Street in Dover. I stopped by to have him fix a buzzing problem I was having on my Les Paul. Tom not only fixed the problem but spent a good two hours going over the guitar and teaching me about truss rods and neck adjustments. He also showed me a better way to put stings on my guitar. I don't know anyone who would do take the time to do something like that. He was a one of a kind. A great guy who will be missed.

A Memory Shared by: Lydia Schultz
2005-09-11 21:26:58
I grew up with Tom's kids. And as long as i can remember i wished that i had a dad like him. I don't know of a better man. His life makes me want to be a better person. He was a good guy doing his thing, and was good to everyone. No one can ask for a better friend.