Family, bandmate sing praises of drowning victim’s impact on local music community

By MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Managing Editor
editor@sbnewspaper.com

(Staff photo by Ray Quiroga)
Recent drowning victim Kean Koite, the ex-bassist for local cover band Ten Yearz Gone, was remembered by his sister Nellie Koite Gara and bandmate Adrian Gonzalez as a “fun-loving” and kind person. Kean is seen on the bass in this 2008 photo while Adrian takes the lead on vocals.

From Chicago to South Texas, Kean Koite was well-liked wherever he went.

That’s the legacy family members of the 44-year-old musician and Death Metal enthusiast said Kean, a Harlingen resident who previously resided and attended schools in San Benito, left behind after his life was tragically cut short in a drowning incident that occurred Friday, June 6 at South Padre Island.

Kean’s sister, Nellie Koite Gara, 46, described the family’s reaction as one of disbelief upon learning of her little brother’s death.

“We were very shocked, of course,” an emotional Nellie said before pausing to collect her thoughts. “He loved the beach. He was happy when he went to the Island. The sound of the water, the waves… He felt great over there. It (Kean’s death) was a real shock to all of us.”

Want the whole story? Pick up a copy of the June 11 edition of the San Benito News, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.