The Trombone Tree
The Trombone Tree is located on the corner of 4th and Gregory outside the Armory on the U of I campus. Greg and the MI trombone section would rehearse here, outside, whenever they could. Greg's friends Lisa M. and Wally S. were instrumental in coordinating the effort between the band students and the university to attain the campus dedication as a lasting tribute to Greg..
During Labor Day weekend, September 4, 2004, the Marching Illini Trombones invited Greg’s family and friends for dedicating the tree and reminiscing about their dear friend. The trombone section played the trombone cheer and several other MI tunes for all who attended.
Over the past 19 years friends and family stop by the tree to honor Greg and snap photos.
The plaque reads:
"In loving memory of Gregory S. Vasich - an irreplaceable friend and
member of the Marching Illini, whose enthusiasm for life, love, and
music has inspired us all."
It has been said that Greg had orange and blue blood. Here is a poem written by the 2003 Trombone section. Thank you Wally.
Goodnight Greg
by the 2003 MI Trombones
On the fifty,
There is a Bando
Marching his final
And last show
Goodnight Greg, the man we've known,
Goodnight high fives, in the end zone.
Goodnight shorts in the winter snow,
Goodnight to the most uber guy we know.
Goodnight MI ritual of tossing the ball,
Goodnight friends & family, he'll be missed by all
Goodnight to your smiles, laughter, & spirit so kind,
Forever your image will live on and shine
Goodnight "no problem”, the phrase you used so much,
Goodnight Greg,
From all of those you've touched.
May God bless your soul Greg,
and watch over Jenny and your family.