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"Known professionally as "Chip" Johnson, James Duerner succumbed to
complications of diabetes and congestive heart failure on Tuesday,June 14, 2111 at his home in Santa Clarita.
He was born in San Francisco, CA. December 23, 1941. Considered a
musical genius he received a Doctorate in Music at age 19 and went on
to lead the San Francisco Orchestra and Chorus. Always with a life
full of music he ventured into various other professions at the same
time including being a world-class poker player. In later years,
upon moving to Santa Clarita, he started the Men's Barbershop Chorus
of Santa Clarita, which is still in existence to this day. He led the
Dixieland Band called "Chip" and the Monks for many years, and about
15 years ago took over the direction of the Silvertone Singers &
Rhythm Review. "Chip" was also on the SCV Senior Center Board of
Directors so the Silvertones became official Senior Center Volunteers
performing at various assisted living and convalescent facilities,
other senior centers and for senior groups throughout Santa Clarita
and San Fernando Valleys. Two years ago he also started the Senior
Center sponsored Orchestron who now perform regularly with the
Silvertones. Chip has received numerous awards and recognition
during his years of musical direction and volunteerism.
Chip is survived by his wife, Cynthia Duerner (aka Chime); his
mother, Frieda Duerner; his brothers Fred, Gary, Ron, and John; his
son, Jim and daughter Erica by his first wife; and son Reagan and
Chime's daughter Nida (and families).
A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 19, 2011 at the Bouquet
Canyon Senior Apts. recreation room, 26705 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa
Clarita at 10am (park at the mall next door). Cards & memorial gifts
can be sent to Cynthia at apt. 349 the same address.
The Signal, Santa Clarita, June 18, 2011
To view and sign the guest book, please visit
the obituary tab at www.the-signal.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Chip had a mission and that was to teach music. He was a tough taskmaster, and he pushed people to perform beyond what they believed they could do with surprising results. He brought the joy of music to many--be they performing with him or an appreciative audience. We will miss his talent and love of music, but we will do our best to continue his legacy of bringing joy and inspiration to others through music. Tom Jones
Thomas Jones
June 20, 2011
Chip certainly brought light into every room he entered, he was quick with a joke and was sure to make you smile - whether you wanted to or not. May he rest in peace. Chime - our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anne DeBusk
June 18, 2011
My sincerest condolences to Chip's family. I feel blessed to have known him. He was one of the most caring men I have ever met, and one of the most fun! There is no doubt that he touched countless lives through music and his generous spirit. He will be greatly missed.
Jessica Parizek
June 18, 2011
Chip was abundantly gifted with musical talent and he shared that gift with many people through the Senior Center and SCV. He also helped/encouraged others to express their love for music and musical performance whether notably talented or just wanting to be heard. The Senior Center has lost a great friend and we shall miss him. If there is a heaven, it's in for some wonderful tunes!
Thank you, Chip!
Diana S.
June 18, 2011
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