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We shared a love for music and I am so indebted to him. So many positive vibes in our last conversation. "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." Long Live Rock! Be at peace, Nick. DJ
Here is the obit which appeared in the Wooster Daily Record, with a further funeral home link which is assisting in private arrangements. DJ
"NICK AMSTER FISHELSON, age 71. Devoted husband of Sarah Jane Buck. Loving father of Eli Fishelson and Claire Fishelson. Son of the late Julia Amster Fishelson and Joseph Eli Fishelson. Brother of Ida Sue Fishelson and David Fishelson (Erana Kratounis). Nick Amster, as he was known to friends and the public, was a musician, actor, arts activist and co-owner of Cleveland music club the Beachland Ballroom. The Wooster native was loved by many and known for his kindness, benevolence and rock ‘n’ roll spirit. His passion was art and he pursued it with vigor and intensity. He recorded thousands of hours of music in Ohio, New York and Jamaica – all places he lived throughout his life. He traveled the world, but his heart always remained in Ohio. Funeral arrangements are private. McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family. Contributions may be directed to Cinematheque, c/o Office of Institutional Development Cleveland Institute of Art, 11610 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 or to NAMI Greater Cleveland, 2012 W. 25th St., Ste 705, Cleveland, OH 44113. Online condolences may be left for the family" at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2020/04/nick-amster-notable-supporter-of-music-and-the-arts-in-cleveland-has-died.html
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Pete Klosterman
By far the most interesting member of the Class of 1967. Lots of great memories, including his bringing anti-war activism to WHS.
Pete
Janice Worth (Nelson)
I agree with Pete. Here's what I posted on FB yesterday:
Nick Fishelson had a powerful effect on me. As I wrote on somebody else's FB page, to a preacher's daughter living in a strait-laced parsonage on the outskirts of town, Nick was difficult, exciting, fascinating--the first time I'd met somebody I thought was "cool." He was into the Beats before I even knew what they were...he was a declared atheist and relished arguing his unconventional views, managing to make all other positions seem embarrassingly parochial. I had a stirring craving for something "cosmopolitan," -- or what we would have called "worldly" back then, and Nick was the first person of my own generation who seemed to embody whatever I thought that was...I didn't keep in touch with him but I'm fascinated now by the remarkable adult he became. I'm not surprised, and I say goodbye to him all these decades later with fondness and appreciation.
Claudia Anderson
Nick Fishelson was walking around with a goatee (Beat) and and guitar and playing Dylan songs (new folk; political activism) before most of us knew about either of these movements - thinking like 1964-5. Very singular person, as everyone has said. Sorry to hear he is gone! Claudia Anderson
Daniel Wells (Wells)
Looking back I'm sorry to not have ever had the chance to tell him he was right about the Vietnam war.
John Carmer
The last time I saw Nickie was at Danny Fisher’s memorial service. Nick was a devoted friend to Dan, and we spent the time exchanging stories about the friend we had shared since our teens.
Nickie’s memory will be with us for a long time
Stephen Cope
Sandy and I just had a long phone call remembering Nick, and how much fun he was to hang out with. And how the heck did he show up with such an expanded consciousness at such a young age? It's quite beautiful to read about his contributions to the music and cultural scene in Cleveland. He will not soon be forgotten!!
William Ross
My first and most vivid high school memory of Nick was at the talent show held I believe during our junior year. There were a number of individuals and groups participating (including Me and the Guys), one of whom was Nick. He strolled out on stage and played a Dylan song. I recall the look, complete with flannel shirt, acoustic six-string, and harmonica attached to an around-the-neck holder; the attitude; and the sound, all of which I thought was fantastic. I was blown away by just how cool he was!
Mary Yoder (Yoder-Williams)
It took going off to college for me to understand why Nick refused to stand for the Pledge of Allegience at high school assemblies. I was impressed at the time by his courage of conviction and only later by his awareness of the world beyond our doorstep. The comments on this page from those who knew him well are a fitting tribute to Nick, and - if he was lucky - indicative of the quality of friendships he enjoyed post-WHS as well. RIP, Nick.
Dennis Clark
Ahead of the times. He was able with to be with his passions and enjoy what he loved. Rock on my friend.