Kyle Woodring Obituary

Woodring, Kyle B. Kyle was born February 27, 1967, in Lansing MI., and died unexpectedly at his home in Lockport, IL. September 8, 2009. A 1985 graduate of Mason High School, Kyle attended Michigan State University before moving to Chicago. Kyle taught at Bloom School of Jazz and performed countless well-known commercial jingles. His professional career included drummer with Dennis DeYoung, songwriter and former lead singer for the popular band Styx, along with performers such as country star Deana Carter, John Mellencamp, Robbie Fulks, and George Michael. Kyle was the onstage drummer for the Broadway in Chicago hit musical Jersey Boys from the shows opening. When not behind his drums, Kyle could be found jumping out of airplanes. More than a talented musician and avid skydiver, Kyle was an extraordinary person who touched people's hearts with his loving kindness and his unique sense of humor, exemplified by his undoubtedly thinking that heaven really needed one more rock drummer. Kyle is survived by his beloved son, Tabor, of Lockport, IL, parents, Ken and Kay Woodring of Mason, brother, Kirk (Nancy) of South Deerfield, MA, sister Kendra Spielberg of East Lansing, nieces Arija Spielberg, Hannah and Alison Woodring, and a worldwide community of friends. Memorial celebrations will be held Thursday, September 24, 5:00 p.m. at University Club of Michigan State University on Forest Road, Lansing, MI and Sunday, September 27, 5:00 p.m. at LaSalle Power Company, 500 N LaSalle 3rd floor, Chicago, IL. In lieu of flowers, family has requested contributions be made to the Kyle Woodring Memorial Fund P.O. Box 126, Mason, MI 48854 Arrangements being handled by Goodale Memorial Chapel, Lockport, IL. 815-838-1533

Published by Chicago Sun-Times from Sep. 13 to Sep. 20, 2009.
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Memories and Condolences
for Kyle Woodring

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Hello! Sending you a hug, a smile, and a song from afar! Hoping you know you are missed and remembered.

Melissa Z.

Friend

September 8, 2020

Miss your positive, upbeat, perseverance attitude and professional drumming talent. Prayers your son is doing well and that you are in heaven. Thank you for being a friend and for believing in me and the gifts passed on, taught, and entrusted. You are missed and remembered.

Melissa Rose Ziemer

Coworker

September 7, 2019

I was saddened to learn of Kyle's passing today. As a drummer, he played from his heart and his soul and was one of the best. My deepest condolences go out to his family. He will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Rick Loomer

September 7, 2010

I only heard about Kyle's passing this afternoon. I am beyond devastated.
I met Kyle in 2004 at a Kenny Chesney concert. To this day he is the most extraordinary human being I have ever met. God truly blessed me when he brought Kyle into my life. We remained close over the years. He called me at the end of August of last year, but I was in the process of moving and making a new life for myself, so I was a bit behind in returning phone calls. My deepest sympathies go out to his son, Tabor, and the rest of his family. He will be dearly missed. I will always love you Kyle..
Dani Anderson

Danielle Anderson

April 13, 2010

Met Kyle after a Dennis DeYoung show a few years back in Phoenix, Arizona. We chatted about music and how he would say my name with his Chicago accent.. Daaawna instead of Donna. We stayed in contact via internet and email after that and was pleasantly surprised one day when he sent me a CD track he made for me of his drumming. Though didn't know him as well as many what I did learn was that he was a great person, very loved and talented beyond belief. May you find happiness drumming up in the heavens Kyle and my prayers and thoughts to your loved ones. XoxO

Donna Rodgers

March 9, 2010

I knew Kyle very well back in the 80's. I spent alot of time with him when he was with Jewel Fetish. I lived in New York and he in Chicago.
we visited each other when we could. My sympathy to all who loved him. His sence of humor is what I truley loved about him.

Paulette Giorgio

Paulette Bowen

December 26, 2009

I'm a fan of him from Brazil, just heard him play in the Blanc brothers album. I'm a drummer myself. One thing I can say is that I feel when someone is really enjoying themselves when playing and I did (and always do) feel a wonderful sense of harmony, melody and power coming from Kyle's drums.
He will be awfully missed, not only for me, but for his millions of fans throughout the world!!
Love and peace to all his family, friends ans lovely ones!!!

Ronaldo Miquelote

November 4, 2009

I met Kyle in 2nd grade and knew him through High School. The first big memory I have of his drumming is of his band playing on the last day of school in 5th grade. We had to go down to the basement to watch the performance. All I remember was the rousing version of Alice Cooper's School's Out. LOL I knew he was going to do that for the rest of his life, he was amazing. He was too good for our HS band, but he agreed to be our drummer for the show choir. He was always so nice and kind to me. Listening to Kyle back then I was sure he was the next Neil Peart. A few years ago I looked him up and tried to keep up with all the things he was doing. It was nice to see he was doing what he had always loved. I had a dream about him while we were doing rehearsals for Wizard of Oz this past August-September. I mentioned it to my DH and thought after the show I would see how Kyle was doing. I was surprised to hear he was gone. Kyle, if you can hear our words or see this....you will never know how much I appreciated your kindness. I hope you have a drum set wherever you are now and can play for and with all those who have gone before you. You are well thought of and loved. Thanks for sharing your talents with the world.

Amberlee (Dodge) Batchelor

October 29, 2009

First time I saw Kyle was Niagara Falls New Years Eve, Dennis deYoung outdoor concert, a few years ago. I was so impressed with his and the band's talent. I wrote him. I was thrilled that he replied back! He went on to say that he was happy to have his girlfriend there that night and spend some time at Niagara Falls with him. So talented yet a courteous and kind gentleman to take the time to reply to me and extend feelings of what a "blast" he had that night performing. I am so glad that TV "E!" captured that night's performance and is still available to watch on utube. Thanks Kyle. God bless you!

Ken Hilbig

October 25, 2009

Old Soul...Kirk said it so well. When I first met Kyle 10 or so years ago I thought that he definitely went deeper than most. He was exceedingly kind and thoughtful with me, and he always made me feel welcome in his world. What a giving soul. I'm so sorry that I wasn't able to say goodbye to him before he left this world...but I know, beyond any shadow of doubt, that he lives on and shows his kindness and acceptance every day in some way. His talent was immeasurable..but, more importantly, his heart was immense. I can't imagine anyone saying anything different. We'll miss you Kyle.

Mike Eldred

October 3, 2009

Our prayers are extended to Kyle's family and friends. He will be greatly missed! We've had the opportunity to see and meet Kyle after many performances, and were stunned by this horrible news as we looked for new performance dates. His legacy will not be forgotten! To Kyle's family - be strong and know that you can all be proud of his accomplishments in life!

Miller Family

September 29, 2009

I saw Kyle play in Beverly Ma.I'm actually a drummer myself and sat right behind Kyle at the show. I e-mailed him after to tell him how much I enjoyed the drumming clinic he put on that night, he was fantastic.We have traded e-mails since.I considered him a friend and will miss him dearly. dearly.

Kim Richard Gallagher

September 29, 2009

You will always have a place in my heart my cousin- God Bless to you and the rest of the family.

Bernadette Brown

September 28, 2009

"I write from Dublin, Ireland, to convey my sincere sympathy to Kyle's family and music colleagues on his passing. I have admired Kyle's drumming for sometime now, particularly in recent times with Dennis deYoung and his band. Such a sad loss to the music industry and to his many, many friends and fans, around the world,
God look after him................ Henry Oliver (Dublin, Ireland)

September 27, 2009

Kyle was my friend, and was there for me at one of the lowest times of my life. I only wish he had given me the chance to return his estimable favor of my help. I will miss you, Kyle, and never forget. May you have found the peace of which, for those like us, only dreams are made. All my love, Dawn

Dawn Dudley

September 27, 2009

I'm so sorry for your loss. I did not know Kyle, but I saw the love in the many photos and films I have witnessed him in. He was the best drummer that I have had the pleasure to see and I'm an old lady, so that's a lot of drummers. I wish him peace and happiness on his journey. May God take him under his wing. I know that there's a special place in Heaven for him. And to his family, I'm praying for compassion, peace, and being able to someday remember all of the happy moments. I'm sorry....I know that nothing can replace the space that's left open by his passing....I remain, humbly, just a fan.

Gay Fox

September 26, 2009

My condolences to Kyle's family. He will be missed so much. His memory is just a drum beat away.

Patty Perfitt

September 25, 2009

After reading through the other entries, there isn't much that I can add other than how profound a shame it is that we are here to write them under these circumstances. I haven't seen Kyle since High School but, I always wondered how far his talent took him...I assumed pretty far because he was AWESOME way back when during those talent shows. I am very sad to hear of his death...my condolences to his family and friends

Chris Williams

September 25, 2009

My prayers and thoughts are with the Woodring family, especially Tabor, and all the many people Kyle touched. I had the piviledge of working on the rough draft of "A Child's Gift" and the beautiful blessing of calling Kyle my friend. I will miss our talks and wish I'd listened harder and longer. Kyle was more than a drummer, he was an extroardinary human being. God Bless You Kyle. Darla June Bear Dayton, Ohio

September 22, 2009

My sincere condolences to the Woodring Family. I was so sorry to hear about Kyle's passing. May God Bless you all during this very difficult time.

~Brenda Samson, Mason, MI

September 21, 2009

My heart goes out to the Woodring Family. I remember Kyle playing back in the 6th grade and junior high at dances and his talent was unbelievable. He is a very special person that I will always remember. May God be with you all at this time of loss.

Tammie (Borseth) Koehler

September 20, 2009

My thought and prayers are with your family. Kyle worked with my husband, Phil Bonanno, on many projects. Phil passed away April 24th, 2007. I had the privilege of meeting Kyle while they were working with an artist, Nikki Lee. He was an amazing drummer and again, the music world has lost a great person. He touched many, many lives and through music, he will live on. God Bless your family during this difficult time.

Pamela Bonanno

September 18, 2009

My condolences to the Woodring family.

Al LaRivière

September 17, 2009

Dear Woodring Family,

I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news about Kyle. He was an excellent drummer and kind human being who, on several occasions, supported a band I was in while living in Chicago. He always offered encouragement and helpful advice and recently, I had the joy and honor of visiting with and listening to him play for the first time in over three years! As usual, his drumming was right on and his attitude was that of hope, curiosity and excitement. He spoke about his love for his son and I felt inspired by our visit. My heart goes out to all of you. The Woodring Family must truly be a special lot to have had such a gifted and heartfelt brother/son/father in your midst! Thank you for sharing Kyle with the world; his kindness, adventurous spirit, friendship and music will not be forgotten! May God Bless you with peace, love & comfort during this difficult time. Sincerely,

Melissa Rose Ziemer

September 17, 2009

Condolances to the Woodring Family.
Kyle is at Peace now.
I was a schoolmate of his at MHS & was in awe of his ability at everything.

Christine Weaver-Cimala

September 15, 2009

Dear Woodring family - we (the family of Gene and Pat Lewis of Mason) want to express our deepest sympathy to you all. Yes, our prayers of comfort and peace having been sent to the heavens for you all. Kyle was an inspiration to so many, brave enough to step out and reach for the stars. He will be great missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Nancy Lewis-Sinnaeve

September 14, 2009

September 14, 2009

September 14, 2009

September 14, 2009

It's sad to hear the passing of such a talented musician. The first time I heard him was in a high school talent show..of course there was a standing ovation for him at the end. You made your mark here in this world, you and your talents will be missed and for that I give you a standing ovation. God be with your family.

Shawn Tew

September 14, 2009

Kyle was a star to us all when on earth, now he is a star shining down from heaven. Thoughts and prayers to Mr. & Mrs. Woodring, Tabor, Kendra and family.

Debbie (Diamond) Yerks

September 14, 2009

September 14, 2009

September 14, 2009

Kyle was such a beautiful person. He will be missed so very much. My prayers are with you Tabor,Uncle Ken, Aunt Kay, Kirk, and Kendra. With all my love.

Carmen

September 14, 2009

Since hearing of Kyle's death, my heart has been in constant prayer asking God to grant his family comfort and peace.
I went to school with Kyle from first grade until graduation. The first time I heard him play the drums was the last day of school in fifth grade. He and others played "Schools out for Summer". It was amazing. I knew then he would make his mark on the world.
Kyle, you are finally at peace. I am sure you are a Guardian Angel to your family now.

Prayers and Blessings,

Kelly (Morgan) Heslip

September 14, 2009

Thoughts and prayers go out to the Woodring family.

Kyle was a dear friend since the early age of 4. Growing up in a small town like Mason, we all knew he was going to make it big. He had such a gift to give, not only with his music, but a true passion for people. You will missed!
God Bless you ~

James Guarnaccia

September 14, 2009

To the Woodring family and everyone who knew Kyle, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I was blessed to call Kyle my friend and priviledged to work on his solo cd, "A Child's Gift". Kyle was a beautiful, special person and a loving and doting father. You will be missed my dear friend. I wish I'd listened longer and louder.
With deepest sympathy, Darla June Bear Dayton, Ohio

September 13, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve the loss of your dear son, father, brother, and friend. He will be truly missed by those who ever had the privilege of knowing him, and by everyone who was ever touched by his exceptional life and talents.

Barbara & Joe Wohlfert

September 13, 2009

Kirk, Kendra, Tabor and all of Kyles Family,

Kyle was a jewel of a person, his qualities as a human being are unmatched by anyone I know. He was a very dear friend. A man who lived life to its fullest, no reservations. Even though he achieved fame on so many levels, he was the most humble, straight forward person I know. I am very honored and lucky to have met him years ago and become one of his friends.
He will be so missed by all of us that knew and loved him. I cannot imagine the sadness experienced by his family, especially Tabor. He loved you so much. Everytime we talked, he always talked about you, and how much he loved you.
When my wife was pregnant with my first son, I had given Kyle a ride to Midway Airport. He told me something that not a day has gone by since that I dont think of his words, regarding having a child of my own, they are :

"The love that I have for my son cannot be described in words. The amount of love cannot be compared to anything Ive ever experienced, its just incredible to have so much love in your heart for that little one, you'll soon see what I mean."

He told me this just a couple of weeks before my son was born in 2001. As i said, not a day has gone by since that I dont think of what he said and how he said it. He is an angel now, shining down upon us from a concert in heaven. God Bless you Kyle, Tabor, Kirk, Kendra and all of Kyles family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jeff, Maria, Michael and Matthew Anderzunas
Richard-Midway Funeral Home
Chicago and Palos Heights, Illinois

September 13, 2009

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