Claude Stephenson Obituary, Death – Our hearts are heavy with sorrow as we receive the news of the passing of Claude Stephenson. Claude’s deep connection to our Matachines group, which he joined after the 1992 Smithsonian Folklife Festival, made him an integral part of our community. It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to a remarkable individual who contributed immensely to our cherished tradition.
Claude’s involvement in our Matachines group was a testament to his passion for preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage. Unlike many in our group who have familial ties to Bernalillo, Claude was one of the very few outsiders who embraced our tradition wholeheartedly. His commitment and dedication left an indelible mark on our community.
One of Claude’s most significant contributions was his meticulous work in documenting our dance tunes. He took it upon himself to write down each of our intricate melodies, ensuring that the essence of our tradition would endure for generations to come. His dedication to preserving the musical heritage of our Matachines was invaluable, and we are forever grateful for his efforts.
As we bid farewell to Claude Stephenson, we do so with a heavy heart but also with deep gratitude for the immeasurable contributions he made to our community. His legacy as a talented violinist and dedicated documentarian of our dance tunes will continue to enrich our cultural tradition.
Claude’s memory will always be cherished, and his spirit will live on through the music and traditions he helped preserve. Descanse en paz, Claude. May you find eternal rest, and may your passion and dedication continue to inspire us as we carry forward the beautiful legacy you have left behind.
