What: Dave Sheet Memorial Foundation Fundraiser
Who: Whole Lotta Led
When: Monday, Feb. 13
Where: GLC
The Garibaldi Lift Company took precautions to stock extra Crown Royal with friends and family toasting well-loved, dearly departed Dave Sheets at the Three Sheets to the Wind fundraising bash with Whole Lotta Led Monday, Feb. 13 at the GLC.
The local ski racer could always be found behind the bar at Uli’s Flipside, fly fishing in the Birkenhead River or coaching ski racing on the mountain. Sheets died Feb. 13, 2003 after a tragic collision on the mountains he loved.
His memory lives on with the Dave Sheets Memorial Fund, which raises money for critical care equipment for the Whistler Heath Care Centre. Over the years, more than $16,000 has been raised for the cause, including the purchase of a vital sign monitor.
"We would like to see a CT scan purchased," said Chris Quinlan, event host.
"The idea of the fund is that we don’t want to lose anymore friends. If we can save one person, Dave didn’t die in vain. People can come out to rock and roll for an old friend."
For three years, Whistler’s own Led Zeppelin tribute band A Whole Lotta Led has packed out the fundraiser – Sheets was a close friend to A Whole Lotta Led bass player JP Trottier.
However, Trottier is busy tuning skis for the World Cup Team in Europe, so bassist Mike Wilson is stepping in for the show, along with band staples Creekside Phil, Grateful Greg and Tom Rimmer.
Don’t expect a lookalike band. Frontman Grateful Greg a.k.a. Greg Reamsbottom would have to shave his beard and dye his hair blond for starters, but close your eyes and listen, and you’ll see why this favourite local band keeps the audience coming back time and time again.
"For us, it is all about trying to really nail it musically," Reamsbottom said. "Led Zeppelin fans know the music note for note. If you make a mistake, they'll hear it. It inspires you. That's the fun and challenge of covering the band."
Reamsbottom likens the music process to the recreation of the Mona Lisa.
"It is the subtle details that turn the art into magic," he said. "That is one benefit of having a couple of years behind us. We just keep improving…. You shoot for the moon and see how much altitude you gain. With Zep, you can’t hold up, you’ve really got to go for it. It is pedal to the metal. It’s not about interpreting the music, but paying homage to it."
The memory of a great friend will also be honoured, while raising funds for a worthwhile cause. Tickets are $15/$10.
