Chuck Lundeen Memorial Fund

As we approach the 40th anniversary of our first concert, the Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus is happy to announce the creation of the Chuck Lundeen Memorial Fund in support of special projects for the RGMC. John Williams, husband of the late Chuck Lundeen, has provided the following special message.

Chuck Lundeen loved the Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus! Chuck was a longtime member of the RGMC bass section and one of the original Rochettes. The RGMC was an important part of Chuck’s life and a significant early connection with the LGBTQ community when he relocated to Rochester. He developed many longtime friendships from among the singers and volunteers. It was when he was singing and I was a volunteer (we were called B Sharps!) that Chuck and I met. That led to 32 years of partnership for the two of us. When we wed, members of the RGMC sang at our wedding.

Chuck enjoyed introducing people from all walks of life to the Chorus, especially straight allies. We often gathered groups of people to dine before Chorus concerts and attend together. Even after he was no longer singing with the Chorus, Chuck was a loyal and enthusiastic audience member.

Together we made the RGMC a philanthropic priority and encouraged others to do so as well. The RGMC honored us by having the RGMC Artistic Directorship be named after the two of us. 

I will always remember how Chuck remarked that his life would have been so different if, while growing up in northern Minnesota, there had been a gay chorus in his community. He grew up in a time where there were few outlets beyond the bars for socializing.

And aren’t we all pleased and proud that Rochester, NY DOES have a gay chorus - and a terrific one!

How wonderful that Chuck is being honored by the RGMC in this its special anniversary season. I know that Chuck is smiling to think that his legacy lives on and that support for the Chorus continues.

And here’s a special note. For the first $2,000 donated to this Chuck Lundeen Fund, every

dollar will be matched dollar for dollar by donations from me, Robert Neale and from loyal

RGMC supporter Norman Horton. Every dollar counts.

Long live the RGMC! Here’s to the next 40 years of music making and community service!

Please consider making a donation today by returning the enclosed donation form with your payment. On behalf of the entire chorus, we thank John and Chuck for their generous support over the past years and for many more years to come.