Classical, Pop and Jazz Harpist, scholar, teacher, daughter, and sister. Born September 13, 1957, Mt. Vernon, N.Y. to Roger and Vivienne Himmell of Dayton OH. Died September 25, 2016.
She was preceded in death by her beloved uncle Leaonard Meisel, grandparents Ben and Julia Himmell, and Catharine (Kitty) and Michael Meisel.
She is survived by her parents, sisters Catherine (Michael) Aharon and Amy (Tom) Lynch, both of New Jersey; niece Emily Aharon, nephews Max Aharon, Ian Lynch-Himmell, and Aidan Lynch; and a third sister, Ubolrut (Lek) Hanpanit (Toei) of Thailand and Art and Pim. She is also survived by dear friends Tish Triplet, Elizabeth Motter, Kay Thornton, Marilyn Piccioni, and devoted friend and caregiver Larry Jones and family.
Michelle was a graduate of the Miami Valley School, Case Western Reserve University, Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, Northern Kentucky University, and was one Lecture/Recital shy of a DMA from CCM.
As a member of Musician’s Union Local No. 1, the American String Teacher’s Association, Mu Phi Epsilon music sorority, and American Harp Society, Michelle played the harp from 1982 -2000 at Covington’s revolving restaurant, then for 13 years at the Cincinnatian, many thousands of weddings and events, as well as numerous orchestras, ensembles, recording sessions, and many popular and jazz combos, including The Beach Boys, Three Dog Night, Dionne Warwick, Tom Scott and others. She taught the harp and music at SCPA, NKU, Wyoming Fine Arts, and N Ky. School of Music.
Michelle loved playing music with others, riding her horse, and travelling.
Burial service at the grave site Saturday, October 1, 2016, 11:00 a.m. Highland Cemetery, 2167 Dixie Hwy, Fort Mitchell, KY. Flowers to be sent to Linnemann Funeral Home, 30 Commonwealth Avenue, Erlanger, KY 41018 (859)727-1250 Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society or the Kenton County Animal Shelter.
Highland Cemetery
Address: 2167 Dixie Hwy Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017Until We Meet Again
“Goodbyes are not forever, Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I’ll miss you…Until we meet again.” My deepest condolences to Michelle’s family over your loss. Michelle will always be close to the hearts of all who loved her. May the peace of God be with you during this difficult time. May your cherished memories bring you comfort. 1 Corinthians 15:21-26; Revelation 21:3,4; Matthew 6:10. Heartfelt prayers are with all of you.
A great loss
Michelle’s passing is a true loss to our city. She was an excellent musician who brought us peace and beauty through her love of her instrument and its music. The few times I had the privilege of performing with her will be happy memories.
Paul Welch
Hard to Believe
I just can’t believe that she is gone. She was so full of life. We hadn’t seen each other in a few years, but we were at CCM together and dated guys who were friends – and became friends. Did tons of weddings together. Where does the time go.
My deepest condolences to her family and friends. You are all in my prayers.
Wonderful Memories
I am sorry for your loss. Michelle played at a Paper Show we call the Smelt Fry for as long as I have been here (28 years) and longer. She was a fixture, and she made a “nice” event – a very “classy” event. She is now truly playing Stairway to Heaven on her harp! Thoughts and prayers
Mike Davoran – Millcraft Paper
Fond memories
My heartfelt condolences to Larry, Michelle’s family, her extended “friend family,” and her many students. She has left an amazing legacy. I miss her so much. The photo is from a trip we took to a lavender farm last June.
In memory of Michelle Gwynne
So very very sorry for your loss! We will keep Michelle and all her family and especially Larry in our thoughts and prayers!
Sorry for your loss
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dear loved one, please accept my condolences during this painful time. Losing a loved one is distressing and as comfort is needed from family and friends, it is my hope your family will find comforting the promise at Isaiah 25:8 where we are assured that soon “death will be swallowed up forever.” It is my hope your family will find the strength to endure during the days ahead.
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