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Great pic of Bob Kuban, red jacket[60]

In Loving Memory

Kuban, Robert “Bob”

August 19, 1940 - January 20, 2025

“We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Bob Kuban, a St. Louis musical legend who entertained generations of St. Louisans.  Bob died peacefully in his sleep following complications from a stroke.  He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. We encourage those impacted by Bob and his musical legacy to share their memories.”

Beloved St. Louis Musician and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer ROBERT (BOB) KUBAN died peacefully on January 20, 2025, surrounded by his family, following complications from a stroke.

Kuban came from humble beginnings in St. Louis but went on to perform alongside some of the world’s most renown musicians – Chuck Berry, Ike & Tina Turner, Little Richard, The Four Tops, The Temptations, The Righteous Brothers, The Turtles, The Drifters and The Beach Boys, to name a few.

Most notably, in 1966, he and his band, Bob Kuban and the In-Men, appeared on American Bandstand with Dick Clark, when their Top 40 hit, “The Cheater,” climbed the Billboard charts to #12. Kuban said, “That was one of the greatest things of our lives. Every musician… that was your goal, to be on American Bandstand and go meet Dick Clark and perform.”

Kuban was born August 19, 1940, to Dorothy (Shaffer) Kuban, a secretary and at-home typist, who earned one penny per label typed, and Marion Kuban, a milkman for Pevely Dairy.

Kuban, 84, of Wildwood, MO, described himself as “a North County guy” – having lived much of his life in St. Ann and Bellefontaine Neighbors and having entertained thousands of fans at St. Louis institutions like Club Imperial, Gaslight Square and on the S.S. Admiral. Thousands of fans remember the “Teen Town” performances that made him a local celebrity. Kuban’s band played before St. Louis Football Cardinal games and many special occasions for decades at St. Louis Baseball Cardinals games, the annual Veiled Prophet and Fleur de Lis Balls, hundreds of proms and private events, as well as headlined yearly community concerts in the parks where adoring fans enjoyed the entertainment year after year.

Kuban is survived by Juanita Wheeler; Nancy Rickert; sister Madonna “Donna” Kuban; late brother, Larry Kuban and sister-in-law Mary [Schuerman] Kuban; granddaughter Finnley Hope; great grandchildren Stella Hope and Edison Drier; and nieces and nephews, Andrea (Hoeferlin) Winslett, Derek Hoeferlin, Chris Kuban, Bryan Kuban, Kelly (Kuban) Mitchell, friends and adoring fans.

Kuban attended Ascension Catholic Church in Chesterfield.

Bob Kuban Historical Background Information:

At age nine, young Mr. Kuban had an early interest in music, particularly drums, but school music programs didn’t exist in those days, and the family couldn’t afford private lessons. He had never touched a musical instrument until CHUCK BERRY visited his school and asked whether anyone in the auditorium could play drums. Mr. Kuban’s friends volunteered him. He took the stage and played for 10 minutes.

Afterward, Berry said, “You did a good job! How long have you been playing?” Mr. Kuban responded, “10 minutes.”

That recognition from Chuck Berry launched a career that would last decades and which landed Mr. Kuban in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a “one-hit wonder” for his hit single, “The Cheater,” recorded by his band BOB KUBAN AND THE IN-MEN.

The band’s 1966 hit record, “The Cheater” went all the way to number 12 on the charts. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honored Kuban and his hit as part of their permanent exhibit of One Hit Wonders.

When asked whether he considered that designation a put down, Kuban responded, “I don’t regard it as a put down because / say I would rather have one hit than no hits. / would rather be a one-hit wonder than a no-hit wonder. There’s a million groups out there that are no-hit wonders. That sort of shuts ’em up right there.”

From 1963 to 1970, while “The Cheater” made him famous, Kuban taught music to high schoolers and was the band director at Bishop DuBourgh High School.

“It was kind of neat,” Kuban recalled in an interview with music historian Gary James. “The kids were all knocked out by the fact I had a Top 40 hit song, and here it’s their band teacher. Stop and think about it: Band teachers in Rock ‘n’ Roll, that was kind of unheard of. I was sort of blazing the trail and then to come out with a hit record to boot. … It was all new. The administration didn’t know what to do about it. I showed up for work every day. I was never late. I didn’t fall asleep during class.  We were working a lot back then. If we were traveling, I would fly out on, like a Friday, and we’d play a gig in Chicago or L.A. I’d be back in time on Monday morning.”

“The Cheater” rose to #1 on the Australian charts. The band planned a nine-city tour in Australia, but the Draft board told Kuban that his status as a high-school teacher had earned him a draft deferment. If he were to tour, that draft status would change to 1A, meaning he’d be drafted.

In his book, My Side of the Bandstand, Mr. Kuban recalled in an interview, “I have no regrets. If we had become another Rolling Stones, you never know. Apparently, this is the way it was supposed to be. I’m thankful. I have a nice home. I hope to play ’til the day I die.”

He did have two other top 100 hits: “The Teaser” peaked at No. 70; and a remake of the Lennon-McCartney song “Drive My Car” went to No. 93. Bob Kuban and the In-Men performed for the Opening Ceremonies of Busch Stadium on May 10, 1966; and The Bob Kuban Brass performed before the last regular-season baseball game at the old Busch Stadium on October 2, 2005.

SERVICES:  Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Road Affton, Missouri 63123) Wednesday, January 29, 2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated to Ascension Catholic Church (230 Santa Maria Drive Chesterfield, Missouri 63055) Thursday, January 30, 10:00 a.m.  Private interment at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The BackStoppers, Inc.

Funeral Mass will be live streamed at:  https://youtube.com/live/G8-THEoWZtY?feature=share

 

Condolences

81 thoughts on “Kuban, Robert “Bob””

  1. Too many memories of this talented man and his band to tell. We celebrated so many occasions to the music of the band. I had an occasion to meet him once and he was humble, warm, and kind. Thanks for the music and the memories!

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  2. Bob Kuban is the sound of St. Louis. Bob Kuban and the In Men were part of every young person’s life in the 1960s and 1970s New generations appreciated his music for the next 50 years!
    His music is a timeless gift. St Louisans are all so proud and grateful to his music legacy. Heaven has just been blessed with a great musician to the ethereal choir. God bless him and his family. Especially his sister Donna❤️

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  3. Mr. Kuban was a St. Louis legend. I remembered him playing for Mehlville High School dances in the early 70s.
    KXOK (630 AM) made a big deal of his song, “The Cheater”. Also, it was cool hearing his music played on giant powerhouse stations like 89 WLS, Chicago.
    As a late 70s and 80s DJ, I remember playing “The Cheater” and how young audiences loved that song, especially the beat.
    Now and then you can hear his hits on 60s Gold on SiriusXM.
    What a talented individual and an ambassador for St. Louis.

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  4. I was lucky enough to be a student at Bishop DuBourg while Bob Kuban was the band director. The girls all secretly swooned over him! I remember him playing at the teen towns too. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family.

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  5. Bob booked my band “Quintessence” for many, many years. He would often come to our gigs and sit in for a few songs. He was a great musician and a true friend. Rest in peace my friend!

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  6. My Grandmother was a backyard neighbor of the Kuban’s in Bissell Hills. I remember going to visit my Grandmother and listening to a young Bob Kuban learning to play the drums on his parents enclosed back porch.. As a teenager, I lived in Berkeley and had the opportunity to listen to Bob Kuban and the In Men playing their hit single at the Jackson Park Dances. Such great memories of a St. Louis Icon!

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  7. Enjoyed him and his band at Club Imperial, Presentation, Jackson Park, Starlight Ballroom and a few other places I can’t recall.

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  8. In Sept.,2015 the class of 1965/Pattonville had our 50th class reunion.We hired Kubans band for our reunion. It turned into a night of dancing and reminiscing for our classmates. Kuban made it a night to remember. We filled the dance floor every song. May he rest in peace and his family I know are proud of the thousands of people he entertained for 60+ years. Thanks Bob

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  9. My thoughts & prayers go to ✝️🙏Bob Kuban🙏✝️, his family, the many musicians friends that have played on stage with Bob and the many that Bob has influenced-

    I was fortunate enough to play with Bob Kuban and The In Men in the early 70’s – it was the pinnacle of my “🎹 music career” !!
    I kept up with my 🎹 playing during my career in industrial marketing . . . and it was when I referenced that; “. . . I played with Bob Kuban in the 70’s” that gave me credibility that I DO PLAY 🎹keyboards – because almost everyone nationally, and internationally was aware of BOB KUBAN and/or the song THE CHEATER. Thank you, thank you Bob for this great gift & opportunity you’ve given me throughout these 40+ years to maintain and strengthen my passion for playing keyboards and the motivation to keep improving.

    Bob you ARE and WILL CONTINUE TO BE an icon of the St Louis 🎵 music 🎵 scene . . . 👍
    🙏RIP BOB KUBAN🙏
    You’ve Done Well -❤️

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  10. Rest in Peace Bob.
    I lived 4 doors up from you in Florissant and we sued to sit out on the sidewalk and listen when you have band rehearsal. We would dance and enjoy.
    As I grew and began to dance the Imperial, we would go on the Admiral and dance all night. So many wonderful memories. You are St. Louis sounds for sure and the best!

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  11. I will miss Rocking and Rolling with Bob. I was looking forward to seeing him at the North County Reunion. I am sure he will be teaching the good Lord to Rock out.
    May God forever hold him and his sticks in the palms of his hands.

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  12. RIP Mr Kuban
    I first heard of Bob Kuban when going to the Admiral with CYC church group when I was 16. It was a great time! Later after I divorced I attended the single dances with my mom at various places (Heart of St. Charles being one of many places he played). Mr. Kuban was always very kind to talk to and request various songs from at the dances. He use to live up in my neck of the woods back in the day, but I’m sure then I didn’t even know him bc I’m 20 years younger than he was. In ending he was a very kind person.

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  13. My favorite highschool memories were dancing to Bob Kuban’s music. When I was a freshman at Bishop DuBourg highschool my locker was across the hall from the music room. I can still see the young Mr. Kuban strolling down the hall with a sheaf of music under one arm. I have the original Cheater album. Hope you’re playing some drums for the angels, Mr. K.

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  14. Lifting up the family and Loved ones-
    Bob kuban band played on the president river cruises- I worked in the gift shop on board- was Always a pleasure to hear them play- Always a packed crowd!
    A very well known band in St Louis and will not be forgotten!

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  15. Bob Kuban was the entertainment for my senior prom, 1983-Bishop DuBourg, held at the Frontenac Hilton.
    Of course, when they played The Cheater, that was the highlight of the night for me.
    It’s never easy when STL loses one of its own.
    “If there’s a rock and roll Heaven, well you know they’ve got a hell of a band.”
    They just got a new member….
    ##RIP BOB🙏🏻🎶🕊

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  16. My sincere condolences for family. I am so pleased to have both seen Bob play (with
    Walter Scott) and meet him through Chris at St. Raymond’s and elsewhere. A kind and generous man.

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  17. My deepest sympathy to the Kuban Family and friends.
    I was priviledged to have Bob Kuban as my music teacher in my sophomore year at Bishop DuBourg Highschool (class of 1966). He was a special teacher to us all. He was so kind and wanted to make sure we did our best in class. I, too, was one of his followers at the dances and whenever we heard “Kuban’s playing”, we couldn”t wait to get there to hear him and his band. We were guaranteed a good time.
    Wonderful memories. Thank you, Mr. K.

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  18. I was lucky enough to live down the street from the Kuban family home in North County. Larry , his brother was best man at my wedding and I at his. Bob and I were good friends these 50 + years. Besides being a great drummer he was an even greater and kind human being. God bless your soul!

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  19. I always enjoyed dancing to the outstanding music that Bob and his band performed.
    My most precious memory is that Bob Kuban and I always enjoyed dancing with each other to the DJ music before his band took the stage. He said he can’t dance while he is behind the drums, so this was his best time to dance. I’m so glad he chose me to dance with him.
    Bob and his music was a big part of my life and he will be in our thoughts forever.

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  20. I always enjoyed dancing to the music that Bob and his band performed.
    My most precious memory is that Bob Kuban and I always enjoyed dancing with each other to the DJ music before his band took the stage. He said he can’t dance while he is behind the drums, so this was his best time to dance. I’m so glad he chose me to dance with him.
    Bob and his music was a big part of my life and he will be in our thoughts forever.

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  21. I seen him and his band play many times on the SS Admiral when it use to go up and down the Mississippi river in the late 1970’s. He will be missed by all. Rock on Bob!

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  22. I cherish my Surprise Sweet 16 Birthday Party My dad was friends with Bob & He played at my party while Andrieno chef from Al bakers catered the dinner It is one of my cherished memories I lost my dad 20 years later He was just 49 & killed I was promised with Bobs golden record The Cheater unfortunately never received it . Bob left a lasting memory being so kind & of course so talented . I thought of him often wished I would have reached out as I often desired to . Vernon Horr -Suburban Service on Bellefountain Rd was my DAD ❣️
    🙏for all Bobs loved ones & my deepest condolences. God bless

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  23. I first heard Bob Kuban when he played New Years Eve for Hussman Fuss company in North saint louis, Have followed him every since. Loved the Sax sound in the song ” the cheaters”

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  24. My Ode to Bob Kuban

    From St. Louis streets to stages bright,
    A drummer’s heart, a guiding light.
    Bob Kuban rose, a local star,
    His beat transcended near and far.

    A humble boy with rhythm’s call,
    No lessons taught, no drums at all.
    Yet Chuck Berry’s faith gave spark,
    To light a flame, to leave his mark.

    “The Cheater” climbed the Billboard crest,
    With Dick Clark’s stage, he passed the test.
    A one-hit wonder, some might say,
    But oh, what wonder in that play.

    At Club Imperial, Gaslight’s gleam,
    On riverboats, a city’s dream.
    Teen Town swayed to his brass delight,
    A soundtrack to St. Louis nights.

    A teacher by day, with baton in hand,
    By night, a leader of his band.
    From proms to parks, the faithful came,
    To revel in his timeless name.

    The Cardinals cheered, the Veiled Prophet called,
    His music filled grand banquet halls.
    Each note, each beat, a life well-played,
    In melodies, his legacy stayed.

    Though now he rests, his rhythm flows,
    Through hearts of fans, his music grows.
    Beloved Bob, your song lives on,
    A star of St. Louis, never gone.

    Rock the heavens, where legends meet,
    With golden sticks, keep time’s own beat.
    For every soul who felt your sound,
    Your legacy remains profound.

    Great Music from a Great Guy .. The KIng of Teen-Town @ Mary Magdalen Parish Center

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  25. In 1965, ’66, and ’67, I was lucky enough to be in a CYO in Illinois where our CYO had Bob’s band play many times for our CYO dances. In 2014 Bob’s band played at the Belleville IL bicentennial where I was again lucky enough to get to talk to him and thank him for making great memories for so many “kids” my age in that CYO. Bob was humble and genuinely glad to hear we still remembered him with joy. So once again, on behalf of those kids from the old St. Martin Of Tours CYO in Washington Park IL, Thanks BOB, you made so many people happy playing your music.

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  26. To the family and friends of the “Great Musician Robert “Bob” Kuban”; I am so glad I made it to St. Louis to have a lunch with you at the Olive Garden this past year and really get better acquainted. I remember several times making trips to some dances and to several concerts in the parks just to listen to those beautiful sounds of your band; often with one of my favorite friends. I cherish the picture of us from one of the summer concerts of us that you autographed for me when we met for that lunch. I did not know that we were so close in age. I had an unfortunate accident this past year that has landed me in an assisted living situation here in Columbia, Mo and I am sooo looking forward to meeting you once again! Although, after the life I have lived and God having his chance so many times…..plus my “cremation is arranged and paid for”……I probably will not end up with you up there?! I am sincerely sorry to hear of your passing but so glad and proud we became friends.

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  27. You made St. Louis famous Sir.
    Your musical contributions will long be remembered.
    May you rest in peace knowing how much you were loved.

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  28. I was sad to find out that Bob had passed away. I’ve been thinking about him quite a bit since I heard the news.

    I have a lot of good memories from my time being in the band during the 80’s and 90’s. The band was family. Bob put together some awesome musicians, we made some great music and played a lot of great quality gigs. Playing opening day outside the stadium for the baseball Cardinals was always one of my favorites. Bob was the ultimate professional and made sure on gigs that we were as well.

    After I left the group and he would see me out playing with another band, he’d always come up and say “hi” and ask how things were going.

    He was a good man and was more than just a band leader to all of us. I’m proud to say that I was one of the musicians that had the opportunity and the privilege to be part of the Bob Kuban Brass and that I had the chance to know him personally.

    Rest in peace, Bob.

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  29. RIP Bob, I know you are in a better place. I often think of our times together fondly and the fun times when we danced on your breaks. You were a lovely person and I valued your friendship. Will see you soon where the music never stops and we can all party on.

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  30. Great memories of Bob and the band on the SS Admiral floating the great Mississippi river. Rest in rock and roll Peace our friend .

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  31. I had the honor and pleasure to play in the DuBourg High School band under the direction of Bob Kuban 66-70. Mr. Kuban was a great man who truly cared for his students.

    Rest in Peace Mr. Kuban.

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  32. RIP to a GREAT musician and a GREATER human being!
    Blessed to know you for 50 plus years and blessed we got to “talk” just before you passed. God bless you and your many loved ones being fam and friends and fans! You made your mark and contributed so much to so many! You will be long remembered my friend.

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  33. A great musician and neighbor who entertained the neighbors during the summer at the pool.
    Always took the time to stop and talk to us “kids” as he referred to us.
    In our hearts a memory will always be. May eternal rest grant unto Bob.

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  34. Over 65 years since my husband and I enjoyed dancing to the tunes of your band. at Starlight ballroom and Club Imperial where Chuck Berry, Ike and Tina Turner played!’ What a fun teen years we had because of professionals like you all!!!
    Rest in peace- you are sadly missed and fondly remembered!!

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  35. I’m so proud to say I was part of his band for nearly 25 years. So many treasured memories. Bands are like families. I was so lucky to be a part of his. ❤️ We have lost a St. Louis Icon.

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  36. R.I.P. our condolences to Family friends and Fan s we attended many concerts over the decades A true St Louis memory Michael Crosswhite and L. jON Atkinson

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  37. Bob Kuban and his band were from my error in the sixties up into a few years back seeing him at the park concerts. The thing to do if you were a dancer was to follow the bands from Gaslight Square, Club Imperial and to wherever you could hear good music. What found memories of my youth and how safe it was to go to places that maybe were a little risky but not like it is in today’s world. We grew up in the best of times. What memories.

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  38. I am 73 years old myself right now but I have hundreds of memories of times involving Bob Kuban. Bob was always a class act. I am sure that others also feel this way. Bob and his great bands were everywhere. So many times Bob Kuban brought in the New Year with his bands. They were a St. Louis Institution. I have to say that I was also lucky enough to meet Walter Scott when he was with Bob Kuban and the In Men when they were playing at the Grog Shop at the old Clarion Hotel Downtown or what ever it was called before that. The Cheater is a Great Song.

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  39. May Bob Kuban Rest In Peace and Enjoy playing his drums forever for the Lord and his new Band of Angels. I will be praying for the family during this troubling time and sad time. Just remember the great times and you have to smile. The fun times on the Admiral and at the Ballpark and at the parks and at so many other venues to numerous to mention and so many weddings and private parties. Yes Bob you have earned a Heavenly Rest and just know that we all Loved You and will Miss You Forever.

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  40. Im from oklahoma city home of huge 50k watt stations KOMA and WKY As a lad i would play my drums along with The Cheater.Fastforward 55 years living the dream in Nashville..I now lead my own band The Jack Propps Band from behind my drum set Meeting Bob was an inspiration like his meeting with Chuck Berry, I’m saddened Bob isnt with us anymore but he is in a great band in heaven.

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  41. I called Bob Kuban when I was 20 years old and asked him if I could audition to play trumpet for him. He booked me to play a few Cardinal games and while I wasn’t immediately in the band I was on the sub list eventually.. I played maybe 25-30 jobs over the years. Great band leader & wonderful talented musicians and singers.
    Bob was always good for a music biz story or anecdote and always drove the equipment truck always loaded his own drums even when was way to old for that.
    I am grateful to have known him, to have had a very small part of his musical life. I play in bands for he sheer joy of it and I think why Bob did it as well.
    Thank you sir for all of your work in the world of live music in our wonderful city.
    A life well lived on the bandstand!

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  42. I had the honor of knowing Bob kuban
    I played with bob when I was 16
    You will be missed you were truly a st louis mo treasure I also had the honor of playing at the first Danny Thomas show at keil auditorium first jude

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  43. Our deepest condolences to the whole Kuban family and his friends and fans. We all have many good memories of him and will miss him dearly.

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  44. Bob Kuban was so versatile as a music teacher at DuBourg High School. When I was a new freshman he patiently taught me how to play the cello one on one so that I could play it capably for several years with the school orchestra. In 1967 his band The In-Men performed wonderfully at our DuBourg High School Senior Prom at the very height of their national fame and success.

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  45. So sorry to hear this sad news about a St. Louis icon, hitmaker, a towering giant in live music performance, and a just plain nice guy.

    He did more to promote local musicians and their craft than any ten people you could possibly name. I don’t know a single St. Louis area musician (myself included) who wasn’t somehow touched and benefited by Bob Kuban.

    I’d bet that St. Peter had a set of red Ludwigs ready for Bob, and the Heavenly Band has finally rounded-out the rhythm section.

    May God’s peace be with all those who were close to Bob. His name will live on.

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  46. A Quote taken from an “ABBA” song for Bob :

    Thank you for the music, the songs I’m singing
    Thanks for all the joy they’re bringing
    Who could live without it, I ask in all honesty
    What would life be, without a song or a dance what are we?
    So, I say thank you for the music, for giving it to me.

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  47. A talented musician and great St. Louisan. I danced to his music on the Old Admiral, and was very fortunate to book him at our historic Casa Loma Ballroom. Bob shared many stories and ideas with me. He always drew a big crowd. I’m sure he’s playing to another big crowd right now. We are all so fortunate to have been able to know and enjoy him. He will not be forgotten.

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  48. Deepest condolences to the Kuban family and friends.

    As a teenager I danced to songs played by Bob Kuban’s band at local south St. Louis Teen Towns in the 60’s. We were fortunate to have this St. Louis Icon at Bishop DuBourg.

    For many years on the first summer Sunday in June Bob Kuban and his band played for our Carondelet Community Betterment Federation concerts in Carondelet Park. The park was packed with loyal followers who sang along and danced to favorite songs.

    RIP and bring your toe tapping music to the Angels above.

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  49. My thoughts & prayers are with Bob’s Family as well as his musical family! I had the privilege to work with him as a female vocalist & percussionist in 1974 with many fond memories including a whole summer on the Admiral cruising up & down the muddy Mississippi 5 days a week. It was great working with him. He was smart, kind, very gracious with a great sense of humor. His music he shared with so many for so long will continue along with his legacy. His music is played all over the US as I have even heard “The Cheater” loudly playing from a speaker at Bubba’s Burger joint in Kauai Hi! I look forward to greeting him in the resurrection. Thanks all for the music & the memories you’ve shared.

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  50. In 1966 I fell in love with The Cheater in far away Australia. That huge sound burst through my tiny transistor, threatening to blow the speaker apart. It finally left the charts, and then magically returned a week later because Sydney just wasn’t ready to say goodbye to a song they had come to love. I was beyond excited when I heard Bob Kuban and the In Men were going to tour Australia. After incessant pestering I had finally convinced that, at twelve years of age, I was old enough to go. I waited and waited, but they never came. This haunted me for over thirty years, until 2001, when I received a scholarship which allowed me to travel to the US. I tracked down Bob Kuban through the new fangled internet, and arranged to meet. He invited me to watch him play at Chuck Berry’s 75th birthday bash, where he was playing drums for Chuck. Over dinner we talked about that missed tour, and I finally heard the story. The warning that if the band left US soil they would be immediately drafted. That was their one real shot at an international breakthrough. Australia was totally in love with Bob Kuban and the In Men. Bob was the most gracious of hosts, and the most wonderful, generous man. A man who could’ve been bitter, but was the total opposite, grateful for everything life delivered him. I have never forgotten my time with Bob Kuban, whether through a tiny transistor, or that one magical day I spent with him. He was the greatest of men, and I came to understand why people regarded him as “Mr St Louis.” He did his city proud, and he’ll never be forgotten.

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  51. Rest in Peace my dear friend. I always enjoyed the many talks we had about music in St.Louis from the early days on. Bob booked our band Mirage for many years. Bob also was a host of a cable show in Florissant in the early 80’s called Spotlight on Entertainment. I had been invited by Bob as a guest drummer/artist. Bob played many years down on President Boat. Bob had accomplished so much and had done so much for the music scene in St.Louis. Bob, you will be missed my friend. Deepest condolences to the Family. God Bless

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  52. You became part of my life from 1967 – 1970 while I was with your singer Don Hill. It was an honor to have known you and call you friend. Rest in peace.

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  53. Bob Kuban had a moment of fame in the Pop Charts and a lifetime of fame in St. Louis yet he was always approachable and kind to his fans. He loved performing for our region and seemed to never tire of the grind of assembling young tallent night after night to make us all feel a part of something special in our community. Mr. Kuban was a friend of Florissant for decades and The Bob Kuban Brass performed many summer concerts and fall festivals for the citizens of Florissant and for countless charitable fund raising events in our neck of the region and for that we are gratefull. Thanks for the memories Bob.

    Retired Florissant Mayor Tom Schneider

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  54. Bob was my neighbor, my friend, my ride on Friday nights to Club Imperial. He played for many King Richard Club events. He was always fun and very patient. So many good times and so much fun. Most important he was such a good person. Thanks, Bob, for all the good memories.

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  55. Bob Kuban and the In- Men were a mainstay at the CYC dances on the south side between 1966-1970 and provided some of the best memories of my life. Dances were packed with great time by all. RIP Bob!

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  56. R.I.P. Bob Kuban.
    Knew Bob in the early 60’s, before The Cheater. He would have me sit in for a couple of numbers, so he could dance with the ladies. Over the years he was a good friend, musician, and just a great person! Always available to help with booking our group. You’ll be greatly missed.

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  57. sorry to hear bob passed on. bob and his band played at the st. josephs academy father and daughter dance like in 2008 down town st. louis. it was a great time and we had a great conversation with him. so sorry for bobs passing mike and daughter mary ann boyd

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  58. Bob Kuban & his band played at our 8th grade graduation dance at Our Lady of Good Counsel School in 1957. So much fun … so many memories.
    Rest in peace Bob Kuban. 🙏🙂🙏

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  59. Bob Kuban will be sorely missed. I always felt very lucky that Bob would represent our band ‘Hourglass’ by getting bookings for the band. When he had the cable TV show h invited my wife, Barb, and I to present our original recordings to his audience.

    One day Bob called asking if I knew of a singer/guitar player to replace his singer/guitar player, who left town in a hurry. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to help him. But about 2 weeks later he called again asking for the same. When Barb found out who it was on the phone she said “take the job!”. She was 6 month pregnant with twins and was finding it difficult to continue singing that way.

    I took the job and played with him and his truly great band for 3 years. During that time, we played with Stan Musial on harmonica, Susan Sommers, Bowser from ShaNaNa, etc..Truly a wonderful time.
    Thank you Bob. I hope to play music with you again in the after life. R.I.P.

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  60. Bob has been family, not just a friend , since the early 70’s when Buddy joined the Bob Kuban Band. The early days of The SS Admiral , Bob Kuban Lounge , Chase Park Plaza New Years Eves, Football Cardinal Band , Viking Lounge , etc. I had our daughter, Stacey on the band’s only night off. Four years later .,Bob was our son, Jason’s , godfather.

    Bob and Juanita spent the holidays at my parent’s home or ours. My mom and Bob always shared the inside joke , “Cut the cake”! Buddy and Bob talked regularly. Buddy and Bob celebrated their birthdays together every year as we frequented different restaurants. Bob hosted our Super Bowl parties every year. So many great and treasured memories!❤️

    We are all so heartbroken and saddened . 🙏❤️🙏❤️
    The Mannino Family

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  61. We will miss Bob dearly. He was a very nice and caring man. So many wonderful memories at many gigs when Doug was in the band. Great people and friends! The most special one is when Nancy Rickert introduced us to each other on a blind date in 2007 and we never looked back. Wr love you and will miss you Bob.

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  62. “Let’s try it one more time”

    Those were the words I heard Mr. Kuban often say to the woodwinds band I was a part of sophomore year school year of 1965 / 1966 at Bishop DuBourg High School. I played clarinet. When I enrolled in that band class as a follow up to the freshman clarinet class I couldn’t believe my luck. I was in a class taught by the leader of “Bob Kuban and the In Men” who had a hit with “The Cheater.”

    Mr. Kuban would take class time to talk about his career in music when we asked curious questions. He told us his first love was jazz drumming but he sadly admitted that jazz drumming would not pay the bills. Regarding “The Cheater” he said they had done a remix of it after the release of the single which made the instrumentation sound much fuller and removed the tinny sound of the horns.

    At the 1966 Bishop DuBourg Spring Concert the woodwinds band was one of the various band and orchestra configurations that appeared on the program. As a group we were so nervous that we quickly took off in tempo at breakneck speed despite Mr. Kuban’s valiant effort to rein us in. He later related to us that someone told him that they appreciated the comedy routine the ensemble put on. Whether that comment was true or not it helped us feel better about not dealing very effectively with stage fright. It also showed that Mr. Kuban realized it didn’t reflect poorly on his ability to help us prepare for the concert or his directing of us at the concert.

    The highlight of my association with Mr. Kuban was his inviting our ensemble to be part of the dancing audience when he and his group made an appearance on the St. Louis Hop. This was around the same time and possibly a warm up to his appearing on American Bandstand in 1966. They taped two shows lip syncing to their hit. To impress a girl I had recently met and in hopes that it would lead to many more dates I invited her to come with me to the taping. During the interval between tapings I introduced my date to Mr. Kuban. I felt like Mr. Big Shot showing off my connection with a pop star.

    I finished that school year, that class and which ended my association with Mr. Kuban. The last time I saw him was several years later when I was on an Admiral evening cruise. He had just finished a gig on the boat and was freshening up in the men’s room in preparation for moving onto his next engagement. I said hello and reminded him who I was. We spoke briefly. I told him I enjoyed listening to him and his band that evening. As he left I reminded him of his non-judgmental way he would patiently encourage that group of high school musicians to incorporate his instruction and direction with his, “Let’s try it one more time.”

    Chris Fuchs
    Cedarburg, Wisconsin

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  63. Bob was such a nice man. He often performed at the Carondelet Park Sunday night concerts. I am grateful I got to see one of his final performances. He was always ahead of the game. Rest in peace and thank you, Bob.

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  64. Most sincere condolences to Nancy Rickert, Juanita, Donna & extended Kuban family, Bob, a true St Louis legend & early golden era Rock & Roll Hall of Famer !
    We are fortunate to have his legacy live on in the memories of the
    many generations his band continued to entertain.
    Always so proud to call Bob my friend. I will miss our occasional lunches with he & Nancy Rickert at Talayna’s. Such interesting conversations about early music days, clubs, classic cars to the world today. I enjoyed Bob’s book, My Side of The Bandstand. I gave many signed copies to family & friends. Attended a packed Faust Park a few summers ago. Great performance for young & old.
    Many thanks to Nancy Rickert for her outstanding dedication to Bob’s healthcare needs & assistance in daily life at his home. Rest in peace my friend!
    needs these past few years

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  65. Bob is surely a St. Louis icon and will be missed by his family, friends and many, many musicians who have worked with him or worked for his agency. I had the privilege of playing with his band several times over the years as a sub for his guitar player. I was amazed at the professionalism and musicianship of Bob and his members. These are memories I will never forget! There is so much more to tell of my bands times doing gigs as Bob Kuban’s Everyday People and those great memories but it would turn into a book!! I’m thankful to have known him.
    R.I.P

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  66. Bob was my music teacher at Bishop DuBourg High School. We are so glad that we followed his band through the years. He was a great teacher and a great guy. Rest in peace, Mr. Kuban…

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  67. Bob was a fantastic musician and man. A few of us who lived a few houses away would sit outside his basement window and listen to him and others play. This was the beginning of his long established career as the #1 band in St. Louis. As a friend he always took the time to welcome me at his venues, at CYC dances, Jackson Park, street dances, Club Imperial and others. He will be so missed and I pray for God to comfort his family. Donna, his sister would babysit 5 of us and was my favorite always. The entire family were special, kind and filled with humility.

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  68. May the light shine upon you, God surround you, grace be with you. And bless you, Bob. With sympathy to your family, to Donna.

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  69. On august 19, 1966, I found out Bob and I shared the same birthday. Although 12 years difference., we had that commen day for the next 59 years. Phone calls every year kept us close. The year later I was sitting in Bob’s band class at DuBourg learning to play the trumpet and trying to get the the D B band. For 3 years it was a glorius time for a teenager to learn from the best. Bob Oldani and Lee Rauhut andI learned from the master. What great time in my life. My condolences to the Kuban family. Larry Kuban used to take our reunion pictures. ( Nice guy)

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  70. When I was quite young my family moved to South St. Louis and I had the good fortune, along with some friends, to attend a dance at one of the Catholic parishes. As the Bob Kuban Band was getting into position on the stage that night and the lights dimmed a dead silence followed. All of a sudden this very well dressed fellow (in a suit mind you) Walter Notheis (Later Scott), suddenly walked out onto the stage wearing sunglasses. He immediately began belting out “Woo Sometimes, Sometimes I Get a Little Worried Yeah But I Want to Tell You It’s Alright Now ” “B-e-c-a-u-se “! ( the lead lyric to the song ” I Got a Woman”). At that very moment, I along with anyone else in that crowd with any future aspirations of ever being a lead singer in a band and the entire audience at this absolutely packed event became lifelong fans, if not already, of “Bob Kuban and the In-Men” and the rest is history. The Bob Kuban and the In-Men cover of “Turn on Your Love Light” remains without a doubt the absolute best version of that song that has ever been performed by any band.

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