In Memoriam: Derrick Plourde (1971-2005)

Kris Roe of the Ataris has posted that drummer Derrick Plourde, formerly of the Ataris, Lagwagon, Bad Astronaut, RKL and Mad Caddies shot and killed himself on March 30th.

Kris wrote this for Derrick:

I would like to extend my love and respect to all of Derrick's many friends and family, Joanne, Joey, Jessica, Snodgrass, Derrick's Brother and Father, pretty much everyone in every band in Santa Barbara, just anyone who loved and cared about this guy as much as I did. This is one of those things in the back of your mind you kinda somewhat think could happen anytime then suddenly on the day you get that call it just doesn't really seem real. We defintely take some things... some friendships for granted while we are alive, and then suddenly they're gone. Derrick, I can assure you that tonight in Santa Barbara, Goleta and the rest of the world there are many glasses raised in your honor, Be well and we all love you always.

Longtime label, Fat Wreck Chords had this to say:

March 30th was a sad day for the Fat Wreck Chords family as we learned about the passing of Derrick
Plourde. Derrick played drums on the very first Fat release, Duh, and we consider him one of the founders of the
label as well as a great friend. His profound talents can be heard on all of the early Lagwagon albums and also on
recordings from Mad Caddies, Ataris, and Bad Astronaut. Above all, Derrick was a great guy who will be sorely
missed and will always remain a member of the Fat family.

Sheila Plourde also wrote this message:

Derrick was the most precious talented drummer that I ever heard. I got to spend the last few days with him, his father and I
found him in our bedroom was the worse nightmare you could ever imagine. Bless all of your hearts he will be in my heart
forever, his fathers and so many others. Love you Derrick rest in peace. And know how much so many people loved you and how you touched their lives.

Our deepest condolences go out to Derrick's friends and family.