Yesterday, August 29, 2011, my nephew Danny, son of my beloved sister Meg Wiedlin, and brother of my amazing niece Gena Inkeles, took his own life.
Daniel Robert Inkeles was born February 13, 1986 in the middle of a huge El Nino storm. Danny grew up in Topanga and Malibu California and spent the last 4 years in Oregon. Danny was a delightful child who loved hiking, surfing, tide pooling and dirt biking. Danny’s biggest passion in life was music. His first band, at age 5, was Dragon Fire, which involved fake instruments and ninja costumes. When Danny turned nine he started playing drums, and began his life as a musician, playing in many bands, including the critically acclaimed band The Hills. His last band was King Ghidorah, which truly highlighted his talents as a drummer. Watching him play music was a joy.
Life’s trials and tribulations became difficult for Danny, but he met some of his greatest friends as he struggled with sobriety and depression. He had many people who loved him and supported him in his efforts to live and love his life. Ultimately, Danny chose to end his life on August 29th, 2011. All who loved him will miss him.
If you have a loved one who is battling with depression and/or drug addiction, try to take the necessary steps to help them but know it’s not always possible to save them.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to MusiCares, a non-profit organization that provides critical assistance to music people in time of need. Please donate HERE.
Oh, Jane. I am so sorry.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your sister Meg and your families.
Be strong and know that your fans are thinking of you and Meg in this time of tragedy.
I lost my best friend to suicide when I was 16.
That was very touching Jane, it brought back memories of a friend of mine many years ago who took her life. My thoughts are with you…
Hi Jane.
I am Freddie and Hannah’s mom.
I am heartbroken about Dan – he was such a sweet spirit and we all loved him deeply. I will miss his sweet smile and hugs and being called ‘Mama Lamb’.
My love and hugs to you and your family.
Amy
As well put as anyone possibly could. Thank you, Jane. I haven’t been able to reach the family, but feel a little more connected reading your post. My heart goes out to all.
Stephen and Ilyse’s Cousin Bendan
Jane,
I am so sorry to hear about this tragic loss. It makes me even more proud of myself for living through the harder young years when I honestly never thought I would.
I hope your sister and his sister are handling it as best as they can.
Portia
Jane and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I lost my niece this May in a tragic murder/suicide and from one loving aunt to another, this is gonna be rough. But you’ll make it through remembering Danny and all the good things he brought to your life. ((hugs))
So sorry to hear about this Jane. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Best regards, Vince (from the Aspen show)
Jane –
My sincere and heartfelt condolenses. Words cannot express I know. And trust me I do know. Takes strong people to get through difficult times and YOU ARE TOUGH. Stay close to your loved ones.
pk
There are no words at a time like this. Please take care of yourself and your family, and let others take care of you.
Jane this is so incredibly sad!
What a buzz kill after such a successful summer tour. So terribly sorry!!!
Jeff
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
So sorry, I understand him though. I am not brave enough for that. Love you, pixie lady
I am so very sorry. I came to your site after watching Drag U and found this very sad news. I hope for a lot of strength for yourself and your family. Please be well.
Dear Jane, I ‘m sooo sorry for the loss of your nephew. I can only imagine the painthat you and your family are feeling. My heart goes out to you. With much love.
Dear Jane,
My son, Joe Noval was the bass player with The Hills. My family and I had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with Danny when the band briefly reunited here in New York in 2009. Danny was one of the most kindest, caring, and compassionate people I have ever met. He had a gift when it came to interacting with others. He was always quick to tell you a funny story or to help you out in any way – I found him loading my dishwasher one morning! He didn’t know any of us when he arrived but by the time his stay with us was through, he was a member of our family. My husband, my daughter, and Joe and I want you to know how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Danny was a very special person to all of us and we will miss him terribly. We will keep you and all of Danny’s family in our prayers.
God Bless,
Marilyn Noval
Jane,
I can only say, you are very, very loved at this time, even much more then usual.
Your beautiful pixie like spirit, the epitomizes you, and who you are, will pull you thru.
Peace and love,
Frank
i really hope it’s not true, what i heard dan! if it is, i am very sad to hear that someone as good as you, would take your life. it also makes me so angry. i’m so, so sorry for you and your family, who loved you sooo much. i hope it’s okay with you, that i will now carry you on my shoulder through my journey of life. i miss you and will always remember the good times we had together.
i just posted this on my fb today jane, because i just heard the terribly news. please call me, i lost your number. 310-924-2256. so very. very saddened by this and my thoughts and loving prayers go out to you, meg and steven!
craig ell
stewart records!