ABOUT ROD - News, October 26, 2006: "Wingnut" Loses Cancer Battle

Most of you will remember the guy from the crew who got up and played harmonica during 'Wonderful World' and 'Sweet Little Rock 'n' Roller' during the show on Rod's last tour. His real name was Jeff Gilreath but he was known as "Wingnut" to Rod's band, crew and Rod himself.

"Wingnut" worked for Rod for 20 years or more and his job as part of the crew was as Head Carpenter. He was responsible for making the curtains that dropped when Rod played in the round 10 years ago.

Sadly "Wingnut" died in September from cancer. He had an inoperable tumour of the liver. He leaves behind a wife and family, plus his beloved dogs, in Cincinatti where he was from. Pat (Boiler) recently told Smiler that "the Winger may be gone, but he will definitely never be forgotten by Rod, the band and especially his long suffering workmates".

(Story by Marilyn Kennedy)