Salve Debatable Lands,
By now, most of you have heard of the passing of Master Remus Fletcher (Ron Schwoegl), or as he liked to be called, Uncle Remus. He died Friday, December 18th, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer, at home with his beloved family.
You can read his lovely obituary, which includes some SCA notes, here: https://obituaries.post-gazette.com/obituary/ronald-michael-schwoegl-1081267348
Remus was one of the first people we met when we became active in the Debatable Lands, in the late 90s. His presence and voice would fill the room, and he was always eager to lend a helping hand wherever needed, but especially to us newer folks. He had a keen wit, and his eyes rarely stopped sparkling, looking for the next sly joke or terrible pun. Hilda remembers him introducing himself as “Remus T. Fletcher… the ‘T’ stands for ‘the’…” followed by his full laughter. Her favorite memory of him is the moving and romantic aria he sang as the processional to his wife, Mistress Amaryllis’, Peerage elevation ceremony. Brandubh remembers his great love of music. He was always happy to fill the halls and Courts with music.
We would be remiss if we didn’t remark further upon Remus’ incredible influence here in the Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands. For literally decades, he was crucial to the substantial musical community here in the Barony – and also the Kingdom and Pennsic. His actions helped found our musical ensemble, the Debatable Consort, and encouraged many an individual to follow their own love of joyful noises. He was quick to share and let folks play his myriad and oddly wondrous collection of period instruments. His powerful singing voice filled every hall. And who can forget the spinning plates and the bear suit?
Remus filled our Barony, our feast halls, the Courts, the dancehalls, the Loud Band, our camps… and most especially our hearts… with a unique and awesome beauty. Our world is dimmer, and more silent, without him.
Our hearts, thoughts and wishes for peace go out to his wife, our friend, Mistress Amaryllis, and to his son Daniel, daughter-in-law Nicole, and all his family and friends.
As stated in his obituary: “Ron was very adamant that everyone remains safe during the COVID pandemic and therefore there will be no visitation hours. A Latin Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 22, 2020, 10:00 a.m. at St. John Baptist Catholic Church in Plum.” Please see the link above for more information on donations. The Mass will be live streamed for all who wish to attend, likely at this link: https://holyfamilypgh.org/weddings-funerals-covid-19
Rest In Peace, Uncle Remus. We will miss you.
In Caritate,
Baron Brandubh and Baroness Hilda
