From the sounds of it, Bandfest 2023 would have been Mike Gin-approved.
Where else would the tip-tapping of rain give way to a joyous array of martial tunes, Disney hits, jazz swings and parade favorites?
Related: Rose Parade 2024: Bandfest Day 1 comes in loud and clear at Pasadena City College
Bandfest, the Tournament of Roses’ two-day, three-show celebration of bands, welcomed a full-house crowd to Robinson Stadium on the campus of Pasadena City College Saturday. An early-morning rainstorm didn’t pause the music — but one discordant note was the absence of Tournament of Roses member Gin, vice chair of the committee that puts on the event.
Gin, of South Pasadena, died suddenly after a fall on Dec. 16. He was 55.
The Tournament of Roses family of “White Suiters,” to which Gin belonged for 27 years, was heartbroken, said committee chairwoman Ciran Hadjian.
Pipes on Parade: The Massed Pipes and Drums band — making their Rose Parade debut this year — performed a Highland tribute of “Amazing Grace” in honor of Gin.
“Mike was someone who lived like others wished they could live,” said fellow Tournament member Rushmore Cervantes of Altadena. The two spent many days watching USC football games and nights discussing baseball, and community service over whiskey and cigars.
“He contributed to social causes and spent so much time and effort helping others, while also doing a lot of fun things,” Cervantes said. “He was an outstanding character. He touched so many lives in his cool fashion. He went out on top.”
Phil Orozco spent more than 20 years working with Gin on different Tournament of Roses committees. His children called Gin “Uncle Mike.” Gin’s nickname for his friend was “Big Phil.”
“Mike exemplified what it was to be a community person,” Orozco said. “He was always giving back. Last Thanksgiving, he ran a baseball clinic for kids in Echo Park and at the end of it, he gave away all the equipment.”
A newlywed,…
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