The Emporia and musical communities are mourning the loss of renowned drummer and Emporia native Jack Mouse.
Mouse passed away Thursday afternoon at KU Medical Center with his wife Janice Borla by his side. Mouse began playing drums at the age of 4 and would go on to become a legend in the Jazz world alongside Borla to whom he was married for more than 30 years.
Longtime friend Karen Sommers spoke with KVOE News following Mouse’s passing and says he was a “true child prodigy.”
Mouse’s cousin Lindy Whetzel says he was an extremely passionate person.
Following his graduation from the College of Emporia Mouse spent three years as a featured soloist with the Air Force Academy’s official jazz ensemble the Falconaires. Mouse’s career would also see him share the stage with the likes of jazz greats Stan Kenton, Clark Terry, Herb Ellis, Joe Williams and many many more.
In 2016, Mouse and Borla launched their non-profit organization Flashpoint Creative Arts which promotes understanding and participation in the art of improvisation on a global scale. The couple were also mainstays in the local music scene organizing and performing in several concerts in Emporia over the last several years for Emporia State University, the Emporia Granada Theatre and the Emporia Arts Council.
Mouse was inducted into the Emporia High School Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Frank A. Beach Hall of Distinction. Funeral arrangements are currently pending.
