Today members of Lotus made official statements after the search for percussionist Chuck Morris and his son, who went missing on Thursday, March 16, turned from search and rescue to recovery. Following a statement from the band outlining the logistical challenges of the search and collectively sharing gratitude for words, stories, and emotional and financial support, individual members have now made statements.
Lotus bassist Jesse Miller wrote: “We spent over 20 years in a band with Chuck. We lived through parts of it together, traveling across the country and across oceans, feeling the joy of performing in front of thousands of fans and the pain of sleeping on the floor and trying to fix a broken trailer in the middle of nowhere in a thunderstorm. snow. It was a journey, and it would not have been the same without Chuck bringing his unique mind, energy, spirit and smile.”
Fellow percussionist Mike Greenfield added: “One of the greatest achievements for a musician is finding your own voice on an instrument. Chuck’s distinctive personality was so strong that he shone in his musicianship, as he did in all elements of his life. I can easily say that Chuck was the most unique person I have ever met, and it was fascinating to see how his dynamic energy created opportunities for him at all times. As a percussionist, comedian, computer programmer, family man, fixer of everything that broke, and of course, as our beloved ‘joker,’ no one did it quite like him.” Greenfield went on to say, “Chuck was my brother who played the drums. Over the past few days, I’ve been listening to some recent shows where Chuck and I explore rhythmic banter together in exciting and crazy ways. The deep level of connection we had could only come through years of touring and living together. Over the past two decades, we have watched each other’s families grow. Chuck, you are a wonderful father and friend. I will always treasure our time together.”
Lotus guitarist Luke Miller said of Morris: “Chuck was a beast on percussion and in life. He brought an energy each night that fed the souls of so many people. He joined Lotus in a small town in Indiana: Goshen. Our small band from the rural Midwest ventured out into the world to play music. If our tour van broke down, or our shared band house needed repair, Chuck was always the first to get to work.” Miller went on to talk about his Morris family about him. “I was there when Jenny and Chuck brought Charley home from the hospital. And we watched him grow into an incredibly smart and talented young man. I traveled with Chuck to all corners of the United States, to Japan, Amsterdam, the Dominican Republic, Mexico and so many other places. He was always ready to have fun, make new friends and play music. He brought a bright-eyed spirit of adventure wherever he went. Chuck was really one-on-one. He and Charley are incredibly missed. Rest in the percussion / Rest in the power / Rest in peace”.
Little information has been shared since the father and son went missing, as there was little to report. However, the outpouring of support from Morris’s friends and fans has been ongoing since news of his disappearance broke. A vigil was held at Lost Bridge on March 18, and online communities have planned other virtual gatherings as well.
Former Lotus guitarist Michael Rempel wrote a letter to Morris days after his appearance questioning what Morris would advise: “I imagine you wish we were comforted instead of writhing in pain. I imagine you’d want something like, ‘Just be there for each other.’ Let this moment be a heart centered moment. May this moment remind you of the preciousness of life. May your fears and your tears take you deeper into your humanity and clarify your vision so that you see clearly the beauty that is your existence.’ This is how I imagine your wish for us, all of us who love you.
Morris’s wife, Jenny Thompson, released a statement saying: “Please know how grateful our family is for all the support. Chuck absolutely loves the Lotus family and fans and was so inspired after coming home from this latest tour. You make his life have so much meaning, and we are grateful for that. Please continue to keep my lovely husband and son in your hearts and prayers.”
Morris and his son are currently presumed dead; recovery is still ongoing.
Donate to the Morris family here.
