Bandmates, Brothers & Friends band reunion deemed a huge success, raises more than $8,400 for Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation

Friday evening, May 12, 11 original members of four local bands reunited at Goodfella’s in Waukon to benefit the Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation.   The crowd was estimated at around 300 or more who attended the event to witness this reunion and enjoy the wide variety of music played from the 1960s, ‘70s and 80s.

Many of the returning musicians were originally from Waukon, including brothers Bill Withers, Jim Withers and John Withers, along with Gary Hesla, Bob Bechtel, Dave Dougherty, Brad Prestemon, Todd Pickett and Joel Anderson.  They were joined by Keel Clemmens and Jamey Lideen, longtime band members over the years.

The 12th original band member, the late Pat Dougherty, was remembered during the event, with his brother, Dave, joining the band at times throughout the evening. His original guitar and one other were on display during the evening with many purchasing a button to wear that night with his photo of him and his guitar.

Free will donations were taken at the front and back doors during the event, as well as online. The event raised over $8,400 in total, with all proceeds going to the Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation.

“We really didn’t talk about goals, but quietly I was hoping we might hit $3,000 after that fifth set of music that night. This total blows me away and is a testament to support for local healthcare and a community that loves a good celebration with live music that everyone can sing and dance to,” states Bill Withers, Jr., event coordinator. “There were moments that were pretty emotional for some of us, seeing Pat’s family all there to remember him was powerful, as were old friends reconnecting throughout the night. I’ll never forget it, honestly, and I thank our local partners up there for working with us, including the local paper and radio station. The funds raised far exceeded expectations, and all parties are already in discussions to consider a similar event next year for the community.”

Band member Gary Hesla also commented, “There were three generations of family and friends from the community there, and it was so good to be home with all of them, and to support the local hospital on top of that.”
Goodfella’s owner, Jason Fish, also donated $1,000 for the band to play longer that evening, adding to the financial success of this event.

“The turn-out was amazing for this event and the financial support of the Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation even more amazing!” adds Michael Coyle, hospital CEO. “I was so impressed with the quality of music these guys pulled together. You would have never known they hadn’t been playing together for the last 25 years. It was also great to see all of the families and classmates reuniting with the band members. Plus, a great night for downtown Waukon, so just a wonderful night overall. We are so thankful they thought of our community hospital!”

Donations are still being accepted online for the event at www.veteransmemorialhospital.com, by clicking the DONATE button at the top of the page.