Final Cadence

Harold M. Molter ’57, of Auburn, MA, passed away unexpectedly February 24. He was 75. Molter worked as a psychologist in the Bridgeport, MA, public school system. He earned his BS from the University of Pittsburgh and his Ph.D. from Michigan State University, and also studied trombone and arranging at Berklee. During the 1960s, he led his own jazz orchestra in the Pittsburgh, PA, area. He is survived by a sister and brother, two nieces, and a nephew.

Norman Campbell Cross Jr. ’69 died suddenly on March 6 in New Haven, CT, from pneumonia. He was 62. In addition to studying at Berklee, Cross attended Skidmore College, Stanford University, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. He was a gifted artist and musician who, despite poor health, inspired himself and others. He is survived by his mother, Sally Manny Cross; wife, Cynthia Woodin Cross; and sons, Campbell P. and Cole N. Cross.

John Francis Dougherty Jr.’69, died at his home in Las Vegas on March 12. He was 67. Dougherty was a guitarist, and author of three music books. Dougherty performed with James Brown, George Benson, Kool and the Gang, Jack McDuff, and Pat Martino. He is survived by his wife, Jean Dougherty of Las Vegas; a son, Shaun Dougherty of Wilmington, DE; and a daughter, Stephanie Marlar of Austin, TX.

Dennis Taylor ’74 passed away October 17, 2010 after suffering a heart attack. He was 56. Taylor was an accomplished session and touring saxophonist. He authored a series of instructional books in which he analyzed other players’ styles and offered tips for emulating and understanding work from the masters of the instrument. After a lifetime of working as a sideman for such artists as Buckwheat Zydeco, Kenny Rogers, Delbert McClinton, and others, Taylor completed his first solo album in 2010. Unfortunately, he passed away before his debut, Steppin’ Up, was released this past February. The album fulfilled a longtime dream of Taylor’s to make a solo album. Taylor is survived by his wife of 22 years, Nashville singer/songwriter and music publicist Karen Leipziger.

Kim Hamer ’75 of Brookline, MA, passed away on February 27 after a brief illness. He was 58. Hamer was an avid jazz fan and played vibes, piano, and drums. For the past 20 years, he worked as a project manager in the electronics-manufacturing field. He was most recently employed by Star Engineering of North Attleboro. He leaves his wife, Helenita; daughter, Florence; son, Carl; and a grandson.

Michael R. Lee ’75 died on October 30 in Ventura, CA. He was 59 years old. Lee was born in Pasadena, CA, and began playing guitar at the age of six. By the time he reached high school, he was playing gigs. He studied guitar, arranging, and composition at Berklee. After graduating, Lee performed with many jazz, pop, and rock musicians. During the 1980s, he worked for several years in Las Vegas performing at the Hilton, Circus Circus and other downtown establishments. Over the course of 25 years, Lee also taught guitar and frequently offered jazz clinics. He was a skilled composer and lyricist and a passionate artist who enjoyed helping people. He is survived by his mother, Joyce Davis of Ventura.

Russell Norkin ’79 of New York City died suddenly on February 1. He was 55. Norkin studied guitar at Berklee and played professionally. He was completing a CD at the time of his passing. For many years, he worked for the law firm of Willkie, Farr & Gallagher.

Devin “Dabbo” Caucci ’10 of Glens Falls, NY, died unexpectedly on January 11. He was 23. Caucci earned his a degree in music education from Berklee in May 2010. He is survived by his mother, Florence Nolan.