121 replies to this topic

[Carolyn Tillie]

It is with tremendous sadness that I report the passing of our beloved friend and brother, Winesonoma (Bruce Frigard). Several weeks ago, he caught the cough that has been going around and it settled into his lungs. He was in the hospital in Sonoma for a week right after New Years, still reading the boards and staying in touch via his computer. A week later, he was transferred to UCSF and, having been put on a list for a potential lung transplant, succumbed on Saturday, January 14th.

I met Bruce just over two years ago, during the planning of an eGullet potluck at my house in Napa. Bruce was a Sonoma local who, during the planning of that event, offered extra tables, stoves, tables, etc. In that planning, when he learned I worked at an historical winery, dashed up to meet me in person, do some barrel tastings, and a great friendship was born.

At the potluck itself, I fell madly in love with his girlfriend, Patricia, and it was not hard to see their mutual attraction and high regard for one another. Bruce brought caseloads of his self-produced wine to the party for all to share. He often cajoled me to join him in a game of Petanque (yes, Bruce, I regret that I never once had the opportunity to play a game with you!) and regailed me with stories from his past and present. He loved to talk about his time working on the Golden Gate Bridge and although it was never confirmed, we both believed that we met twenty-some years ago via his ex-wife.

We met occasionally at this bar or that on the Sonoma square and the last time I saw him -- happy and enjoying food and wine -- was at The General's Daughter on Thanksgiving. I was pleased to be able to send over and share some vintage Champagne and we toasted each other, in thanks.

This evening, as I open a good bottle of St. Clemet Oroppas and nibble some fine cheese, I invite you to share your memories of Bruce Frigard, Winesonoma. His love of life was an inspiration to me and I shall miss him deeply. I am sure he touched many people here as well, through his obvious passion and love of food, wine, and life.

[omnivorette]

Oh, my. How very very sad. I will raise a glass to him this evening.

[rancho_gordo]

This is about the saddest thing imaginable.

Carrie- will there be a local service we can attend? Please keep us posted.

[mongo_jones]

this is such terrible news. i was hoping to give bruce shit about his "buy a mac" schtick for years to come. carolyn, do convey our collective condolences to patricia.

[GG Mora]

What a shock. I can't even think of anything reasonable to say. Very sad. Thanks for letting us know, Carolyn.

[Chef/Writer Spencer]

From what I read the guy was the real deal. Very sad loss indeed. May he be tending a great vineyard in the sky.

[tanabutler]

How dreadfully sad.

Rest in peace, Bruce. I'm sure you're surrounded by Macintosh users in heaven.

[Steven Dilley]

Very sad news indeed.

[9lives]

I'm so sad to learn of this. Peace and good wishes to his friends and family.

[hollywood]

Damn. Helluva nice guy. Offered to send me some wine, but apparently couldn't due to me being just a citizen and not having some kinda permit or license or some such. He wasn't that old, was he? Bruce, here's to you!

[Melonious Thunk]

Sad. That is a beautiful tribute you wrote.

He wrote of his condition in a thread on OA about quitting smoking. Carolyn, what does it mean "he caught the cough that is going around?" I had no idea it was potentially lethal. I know a couple of people who have had a severe cough for weeks now. This worries me.

[Squeat Mungry]

This is such terribly sad news.

Bruce was a terrific guy with a wonderful attitude, terrific sense of humor and strong character. He was of great help to me at the eG picnic I organized in Golden Gate Park. I am deeply saddened by this news.

So long, Bruce -- I'll miss you.

RIP

PS Carrie, do let me know if there is a service. I'd like to try to be there if I'm able.

[Steve R.]

Terrible unexpected news. I was looking forward to many more years of bantering back and forth & even to spend some time arguing in person during his threatened trip back to Bklyn. Rest in peace Bruce. We'll miss you.

[foodie52]

Oh no.

[bloviatrix]

This is so sad.

Carrie, please offer my condolences to Patricia. I'll raise a glass to him tonight.