KRISS THOMAS KRISS, age 63, passed away on May 6, 2013 after a 2.5 year battle with cancer. He is survived by his brother, Richard, who now resides in Puerto Rico. Tom spent most of his life as a musician, notably as the original bass player for the "James Gang." For the past 20 years he worked for Tri-County Painting. His crew supported and treated him like family until the end. Per Tom's wishes, future royalty earnings from his recordings will be donated to the local Animal Protective League. Friends are invited to a MEMORIAL LUNCHEON CELEBRATING TOM'S LIFE on SATURDAY, May 18 at 2 P.M. at Mavis Winkles, 5005 Rockside Rd., Independence (Crown Centre, West of I-77). ARRANGEMENTS BY RYBICKI & SON, A GOLDEN RULE FUNERAL HOME. www.RybickiFuneralHome.com
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What a Bass Player! When I first heard Tom Kriss play bass on "Lost Woman " I knew he was among the greatest. I wish his time on earth would have been longer but nonetheless he made his mark. Thanks Tom.
Tony Lucena
June 29, 2023
My friends and I saw Tom with the James Gang at Chesterland Hullabaloo night club many times as teenagers. The memories of the great music they produced live and on James Gang "Yer Album" have always been vivid for myself and my buddies. We talk about how super talented all 3 musicians were to this day. "Yer Album" remains one of my all time favorites. Know that he is not forgotten and his music lives on.
RIP Tom.
JB Bornstein
Other
May 11, 2023
To the family and friends of Tom Kriss: I am a contemporary of his generation, born in Detroit and having lived here virtually all my life. I did not know Mr. Kriss, but I've been a follower of the James Gang for a long time. Recently, I discovered the amazing tune "Stop," and, although I don't know what part he might have played in creating it I do know his bass riffing there is some of the finest I've heard. My condolences on his untimely passing, even though many years late. Perhaps I'll meet him some day in the next world of rock and roll! Joe Shemke, Livonia, Michigan
Joseph Shemke
Other
February 12, 2023
My buddies and I saw Tom and the James Gang at Chesterland Hullaballoo many times in high school. I remember what an awesome musician Tom was and what a smoking great band they were! I listen to the James Gang albums often to this day.
JB Bornstein
Friend
May 11, 2021
Tom was soooooooo underrated as a bass player. Dale Peters was a shadow of what Tom did on the bass
Paul Stanitz
Classmate
October 13, 2020
I saw Tom with the James Gang a few times playing at Chesterland Hullabaloo when I was in high school. Stupendous. I have several copies of "Yer Album" which remains one of my all time favorite albums. I keep a CD of it right on the top of my favs to play. May his memory always bring comfort and joy to you. He was a legendary great musician; brings continued joy when I hear him on record and think of the great memories having seen him play!
John Bornstein
May 11, 2020
Like many others I discovered Tom on "Yer Album" were Tom became one of my influences. I also recently discovered that I own the same model Gibson EB-3 Bass that Tom used in the James Gang. I loved his playing and as I've played for over 50 years now I know a great bassist when I hear one and Tom's improvisory abilities have continued to awe me all these years.
Byron Stoehr
Friend
October 18, 2017
It's been many years, but I thought of Tom just a few days ago. Sorry to hear of his passing, and thanks for the memories!
Neil Gould
Friend
March 11, 2017
Paul Pope Band 1979
Used to see Tom with the Paul Pope Band.
Awesome bass player! RIP My sympathy goes out to his family.
Tom Anderson
February 9, 2014
Knew Tom from "The James Gang", and the local band "Sheriff". We were always joking with each other upon meetings, getting a laugh. Haven't heard from him in years until this notice. I've noticed Tom was omitted from many books on rock, about his involvement with the James Gang. I have no idea why, because he was a part of that group! RIP my friend! Ritch
Ritch Underwood
May 25, 2013
Great musician and a great guy ! Condolences to your family .A fellow Firebird and one of your "roadies"
Al
May 22, 2013
Still remember those great nights at the Mentor & Chesterland Hullabaloo back in the late 60s. The James Gang were Cleveland's best band and Tom was a large part of it. "Yer Album" is still my favorite JG album. RIP, Tom. You will be missed.
Joe Korosec
May 20, 2013
Saw Tom with James Gang while in high school. Gifted musician. His work on "Yer Album" remains one of my favorites to this day. So sad to hear the news.
J.B. Bornstein
May 20, 2013
While never having met Tom personally, I followed the James Gang during my High School days in Cleveland Heights and to this day, he remains one of the best Bass Players I've ever seen. A true inspiration to me.
Michael Resnick
May 20, 2013
I have not seen Tom many year. I have fond memories of him from that time. Thank you, Tom!
May 19, 2013
I was sorry to hear the news about Tom' s passing. I have so many fond memories of seeing him play in the James Gang dring my High School and college years. My condolences to his close family and friends.
Kathy
May 19, 2013
Knew him from the Paul Pope Band a lifetime ago. Very sad news. My prayers go out to his family.
May 18, 2013
Richard, Very sorry to hear about your brother Tom. He was one of the best players. Hope things are well with you. Peace,
Rich Dix
May 18, 2013
The James Gang rocked!
Sympathy to the loved ones of Tom Kriss.
Tracey
May 17, 2013
We never met but I certainly knew who he was because our names were similar and I was mistaken for him many times. My most sincere condolences to the family.
Tommy Chris
May 17, 2013
R.I.P. Tom
Billy Sullivan
May 17, 2013
Thanks for the great music! My most sincere condolences to the entire family.
a music fan
May 17, 2013
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