Dear Zimfest community,
We write with heavy hearts to acknowledge and honor a member of the community who has recently passed away: Marian Grebanier (1935 – 2026) joined the ancestors on July 15 surrounded by her loving family of children, grandchildren, and great grandchild. We offer heartfelt condolences to her family and many friends, both within the Zimfest community and beyond, as Marian, with her gentle Elder’s wisdom, touched so many during her years with us. Those of us on Facebook were especially grateful to Marian’s daughter Melanie and son Benno who first posted on her profile page that she was in the process of transitioning one week earlier, and invited all to post comments and memories to be shared with her. You may read the many Facebook messages posted by Marian’s friends (on the Marian Grebanier page), as well as a wonderful tribute and life story posted by Benno on behalf of her extended family.
Marian became a beloved elder in this community she helped to build, having brought Zimbabwean marimba and mbira playing to the Portland area. She formed Boka Marimba in 1987 after hearing Dumi Maraire and his Seattle band. Mbira playing came later, and her group Njuzu is remembered fondly by many Zimfest goers. She hosted many visiting Zimbabwean musicians in the ensuing decades. Marian carried the spirit of Zimbabwean music within her and mentored many others who came into contact with her. When Zimfest was hosted at Reed College in Portland, she assisted the organizing committee and joined the Board of the Zimfest Association, contributing greatly to the functioning of the board as well as the annual festival.
Marian playing mbira at Zimfest 2016
(Photo by the late Karen Wolf)
Marian will be deeply missed by many, and we salute her. Nematambudziko.
Zororai murunyararo – Rest in Peace, Marian.
Claire Jones on behalf of the Zimfest Association Board of Directors
Post a Reply