It appears that both Ferlin Husky and Mel McDaniel are entering the final phases of their lives. Ferlin has congestive heart failure and colon cancer and Mel has lung cancer. It was recently announced that both are now utilizing home hospice care.
I've been a big fan of both. Ferlin had some great songs and seems like an all around great guy and entertainer. It is unfortunate that his HOF induction didn't come until last year. "Random Memories" has some great recollections on Ferlin.
Mel's music was always listenable and very infectious. He enjoyed a very long run on Capitol records and while he should have had more top 10s than what he did, his biggest records remain country standards today. Always gracious towards his fans, he used whatever strength he had over the last year to record a final album that will be released shortly. It's a thematic collection detailing his health battles. There are pictures on the 'net of his appearance in January at the Opry. Although thin and frail, his smile is as present as ever.
Prayers to both and their families.
