Rolland James DeGard was a musician for 63 years, and a father to his two daughters, Jessica DeGard and Ashley DeGard. Those who knew him always said he was a true musician, and that his daughters were his world.
Toby decided to pick up music after hearing Little Richard on the radio at the age of 11. He described to his oldest daughter, Jessica, that a feeling came through him, and he knew music was his destined pursuit in life. He saved up enough money, and bought his first guitar. Completely self-taught, Toby entered the music scene in his teen years. The rest is history, as he travelled across the Midwest, the South, and the East Coast with his band. He experienced life in the 60s and 70s while on the road. He met the mother of his children, Jeri Vodhanel, while playing for a well-known band called The Riptones. Shortly after, they raised their two daughters together, while Toby continued his music career.
Besides music, Toby was a gearhead, and loved all things speed and adrenaline. If not music, he would have pursued racing professionally, as his father Charles DeGard and uncle introduced him to the sport at a young age. Toby fondly recalled his deep friendships with the Bettenhausens, and his experiences racing with them and his family.
In 1975, many thought Toby’s racing and music careers would come to an end after he fell victim to a parking lot robbery. While escaping from his armed assailants, his right arm was shot and later amputated by Cook County doctors during an emergency surgery.
Being the man he was, Toby’s determination and strong will would not let this stop him. He knew he could still play music and race. He knew he could still do everything he did with one arm. He knew it, even when no one else could see it yet. Through faith, ambition, and loving family and friends, Toby didn’t miss a beat, and lived the best life anyone could have.
He was a loving father to his daughters, and encouraged them to always follow their passions. He was always there for them, and spoke very highly of them to anyone who even began to mention their name. They truly were the success of his life, and his proudest achievements.
Those who were friends of Toby, knew how caring and understanding he could be. He always took an interest in what others were doing, and stayed in touch, watering his friendships like the plants in his yard that he took care of, even to his last days.
Toby will be truly missed.
