Steven E. Layton
April 27, 2011
Part 2:
Over the past 10 years Steve was best known for his playing of the bagpipes, either with the Mackenzie Highlanders, with his piping buddies, and sometimes as a soloist. Steve spent countless hours and drove thousands of miles to play at celebrations, ceremonies, and funerals, to honor members and Veterans of the United States Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, and others who Steve believed needed to be honored for their service. Many times over the past 10 years on September 11th, Steve would take the day off from all of his other activities to put on his uniform that honored his Scottish heritage, and take his bagpipes and play on the steps of the local police and fire departments, to honor those members of the public safety profession who lost their lives on 9/11 and to honor those who continue to serve in professions that continue to protect our communities.
Steve stated during an interview that if the bagpipes are played at a person’s funeral they didn’t really die because every time someone heard the bagpipes after that the person’s memory lived on. Now Steve’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends every time we hear the beautiful melodies of the bagpipes.
“Guid cheerio the nou and see ye efter!” (Goodbye for now and see you later!)
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Steve Corson - Waverly, Iowa
04/29/2011
Stacy and family,
We have never met, but last Saturday, April 23rd I had the opportunity to meet Steve last as he played the bag pipes for Spc. Donald Nichols service in Waverly. I was the funeral director in charge of Donny's service, and when Steve arrived at the Waverly-Shell Rock High School gym, he wanted an order of service, as he wanted to make sure everything was just perfect for this young soldier. I was very impressed with the way he wanted to honor Donny and his family. Even at the graveside service - after the military service was over, Steve walked up to the tent and knelt down in front of the family and said, You know, when people hear the bagpipes they normally think someone has died, but look around you there are over 700 people here today and every time they hear the bagpipes again they will remember Donny and he will live on. I will never ever forget Steve saying that to the family. Now Steve's memory will live on forever. It's not "Goodbye" It's "See Ya Later"
Take care and God Bless.
Steve Corson (Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home, Waverly, Iowa)
Mark George
04/29/2011
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Steve. Met Steve when he played at Scott Nisely's services in Marshalltown, IA. What a great service he provided to many. God Bless!
Mark
Paula Kruthoff..PGR
04/28/2011
There just doesn't seem to be the words to find in ones heart to tell you how sorry I am for your lose. He touched so many..he gave comfort to so many.He will missed always and never forgotten.