Sal Bonafede Passes

Sal Bonafede passed away February 14th in Los Angeles.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne, sons Jeff and Chris, and his four grandchildren. Over a career spanning more than 30 years, Bonafede worked with The Doors, Michael Jackson and Neil Diamond, among others. Bonafede was one of the quiet behind-the-scenes giants of the concert industry. In recent years, he traveled the world as the tour producer for Neil Diamond along with Jeff Apregan who often described Bonafede as his mentor and great friend.

Along with Jerry Weintraub and Danny Kaye, Bonafede was part of Management III, a powerhouse company that pioneered the concept of national tour management several decades ago. Bonafede also served as the tour coordinator for several huge Michael Jackson tours.

He attended CIC earlier this month where he had the opportunity to visit with many of the arena and venue managers he has worked with over the years.

Speaking for many, VIP ticketing queen Shelley Lazar said, "He was a legend and the industry will miss him."

Services will be held this Tuesday February 20 at 10:30 am at St. Paul’s The Apostle Church located at 10750 Ohio Avenue, Los Angeles, 90024. Memorial donations can be made in his name to the Lange Foundation, www.langefoundation.com