Local musicians, former band mates, and friends of the late Andy Immel will host the second annual GooseFest on Sat., Jan. 12, 2019 at Les & Jim’s Lincoln Lanes, 1208 Central Ave., Merrill, according to a news release issued by the group.

All money raised will be donated to the Wausau Conservatory of Music, a non-profit music school with the mission of transforming the lives of students through access to high quality music education in central Wisconsin.

Andy “Goose” Immel lost his life on April 6, 2017 in a car crash, leaving behind a daughter and fiancee. Immel was an avid guitarist and multi-instrumentalist playing in several bands throughout Wisconsin, including the group A Break in the Storm. He also enjoyed motorcycling and four-wheeling, skateboarding, and — of course — listening to music.

His greatest joy, however, came from being a loving father to his daughter, Emma Grace.

Ben Lee, an organizer of the event, said his friend found comfort and acceptance in the local music scene.

“It felt like a place where we could truly be ourselves,” Lee said. “Andy would spend hours practicing, writing, and performing. He was a true master of his craft and it was an honor to not only be his friend for many years, but to be a part of writing sessions with him, working on the songs that would eventually become A Break in the Storm. He was having fun and doing exactly what he set out to do.”

The event kicks off at 6 p.m. A suggested $5 donation at the door will help the Wausau Conservatory provide financial assistance to students in the organization’s annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Summer Camp and will also be used for students seeking music lessons.

“Join us for a night of music and drinks as we celebrate the life and memory of our friend Andy Immel in the only way we know how: music and guitars,” the release reads. “We couldn’t think of a better way to honor Andy than to raise money for kids seeking to inspire their lives through music, as many of us have.”

For more information, visit the event Facebook page.

Top image: Andy Immel Facebook photo