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Isaac “Ike” Wiley

September 14, 1953 - April 23, 2023
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Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service
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Isaac “Ike” Wiley, age 69, passed away on April 23rd, 2023.

Sheila Wiley left a message on June 6, 2023:
Thank you to everyone for your love and heartfelt condolences. It warms my heart to see the love expressed for my beloved brother Isaac. I miss him so much, and I will probably cry for him until the day we meet again. ???
Nick Smith left a message on May 10, 2023:
When I got the news that Ike Wiley passed away, I was devastated and extremely heart broken. Ike was an amazing father, a great husband, a cherished friend, and an incredibly amazing, multitalented musician. Ike was not only a best friend he was my brother in all but blood. There are not enough words to describe the connection and our friendship. Ike had an amazing spirit—I loved the enthusiasm he displayed as he learned and shared music. As I write this, I get very emotional because I have to accept that he is no longer here—and that knowledge hurts my heart.   As a young musician growing up in Cleveland, I had the pleasure of working with many great, talented musicians. Ike Wiley was brought to my attention by various musicians that complimented his abilities. We finally met at Joe Simone’s studio as the Dazz Band was rehearsing. Ike and I instantly connected. I was extremely happy and proud of Ike and the Dazz Band because they positively represented Cleveland. The Dazz Band was an amazing band that was co-founded by Ike and Mike Wiley.   One day, The Dazz Band performed an amazing show at the Front Row. Ike played an incredible drum solo—I will never forget—that solo rocked the house! Ike was definitely a true inspiration.  It’s a shame that band disbanded. Years later, Ike and I saw each other at Rhythms Jazz Club—George Duke was performing that night. When Ike and I talked, his words to me were, “Man you need to hear me play!” My response was, “Ok, let’s get together.” We got together and when I heard Ike, I was super thrilled because Ike was still an amazing musician and I felt in my bones that me and this brother were going to grace the stage together.   Many of you know Ike, the musician, I knew Ike, the musician, AND Ike, the man. I know of the pain and difficulties Ike experienced. Especially the loss of his brother, Mike, and the unfortunate situations with the Dazz Band. I saw the way he loved his beautiful wife, Beverly, and I saw how he loved their kids. I did not know his first wife, but Ike always spoke highly about all of his kids. He knew some of my family and I knew some of his.   Over the years, our working relationship and our friendship became very strong. Before I left and moved to LA, Ike and I would attend shows together. Hanging out with this brother was always a joy—especially when we went to see musicians that Ike really admired and was influenced by. One of the shows we went to together was at the front Row. The band was Najee, Billy Cobham, and Stanley Clarke. At the show, I introduced Ike to Najee and Ike gave Najee a video (before cell phones with videos were popular). Not too much later, we were supposed to play a show, Ike called me to tell me he could not do the gig. The gig we were supposed to do, Ike went to play with Najee. See, when Najee listened to the video of Ike playing, he called Ike and over the phone he immediately hired Ike to play. I was happy for Ike he truly deserved that opportunity.   After I moved to California, I got the opportunity to perform with Stanley Clarke and eventually I became Stanley’s musical director. I was so happy and when I shared this news with Ike his response was, “Man, you have to get me on that gig!” My response was, “Bruh, you need to come to LA.” Ike came and the situation worked out perfect! Ike was hired to play with Stanley. That was one of the happiest and best moments of my life—to have the honor and pleasure of playing with my brother and friend, Ike. I felt that Ike truly deserved that type of gig because Ike was an amazing drummer.   There are not enough words to describe how I will always cherish our friendship, the fun we shared on the road, the late-night conversations—the times we shared, laughing and teaching each other music. Ike played various instruments other than the drums—he played the guitar, bass guitar, and the saxophone. Ike also had an amazing voice—man, this brother could sing. I would teach him piano and he would teach me techniques for playing the guitar.   Ike wrote some incredible music. I’m honored he let me play on his music. We were working on songs for a collaboration CD. To honor Ike’s memory, I’m going to finish that project. The songs we worked on will be on the next CD. I vow to finish and dedicate this future project to Ike.   Ike, I will always love you. My friend and brother, I’m definitely going to miss you. I’m going to miss your laugh, your sense of humor, and you telling me, “Come on Nick, you’re killing me!” whenever I said something you thought was funny. May you RIP and create some beautiful music in the Heavens with your brothers Mike and Andre.   Prayers, Condolences and Sympathy to the Wiley family.   Love always, Nick & Annette
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Nick Smith left a message on May 9, 2023:
Memory Of Issac Wiley, When I got the news that Ike Wiley passed away, I was devastated and extremely heart broken. Ike was an amazing father, a great husband, a cherished friend, and an incredibly amazing, multitalented musician. Ike was not only a best friend he was my brother in all but blood. There are not enough words to describe the connection and our friendship. Ike had an amazing spirit—I loved the enthusiasm he displayed as he learned and shared music. As I write this, I get very emotional because I have to accept that he is no longer here—and that knowledge hurts my heart.   As a young musician growing up in Cleveland, I had the pleasure of working with many great, talented musicians. Ike Wiley was brought to my attention by various musicians that complimented his abilities. We finally met at Joe Simone’s studio as the Dazz Band was rehearsing. Ike and I instantly connected. I was extremely happy and proud of Ike and the Dazz Band because they positively represented Cleveland. The Dazz Band was an amazing band that was co-founded by Ike and Mike Wiley.   One day, The Dazz Band performed an amazing show at the Front Row. Ike played an incredible drum solo—I will never forget—that solo rocked the house! Ike was definitely a true inspiration.  It’s a shame that band disbanded. Years later, Ike and I saw each other at Rhythms Jazz Club—George Duke was performing that night. When Ike and I talked, his words to me were, “Man you need to hear me play!” My response was, “Ok, let’s get together.” We got together and when I heard Ike, I was super thrilled because Ike was still an amazing musician and I felt in my bones that me and this brother were going to grace the stage together.   Many of you know Ike, the musician, I knew Ike, the musician, AND Ike, the man. I know of the pain and difficulties Ike experienced. Especially the loss of his brother, Mike, and the unfortunate situations with the Dazz Band. I saw the way he loved his beautiful wife, Beverly, and I saw how he loved their kids. I did not know his first wife, but Ike always spoke highly about all of his kids. He knew some of my family and I knew some of his.   Over the years, our working relationship and our friendship became very strong. Before I left and moved to LA, Ike and I would attend shows together. Hanging out with this brother was always a joy—especially when we went to see musicians that Ike really admired and was influenced by. One of the shows we went to together was at the front Row. The band was Najee, Billy Cobham, and Stanley Clarke. At the show, I introduced Ike to Najee and Ike gave Najee a video (before cell phones with videos were popular). Not too much later, we were supposed to play a show, Ike called me to tell me he could not do the gig. The gig we were supposed to do, Ike went to play with Najee. See, when Najee listened to the video of Ike playing, he called Ike and over the phone he immediately hired Ike to play. I was happy for Ike he truly deserved that opportunity.   After I moved to California, I got the opportunity to perform with Stanley Clarke and eventually I became Stanley’s musical director. I was so happy and when I shared this news with Ike his response was, “Man, you have to get me on that gig!” My response was, “Bruh, you need to come to LA.” Ike came and the situation worked out perfect! Ike was hired to play with Stanley. That was one of the happiest and best moments of my life—to have the honor and pleasure of playing with my brother and friend, Ike. I felt that Ike truly deserved that type of gig because Ike was an amazing drummer.   There are not enough words to describe how I will always cherish our friendship, the fun we shared on the road, the late-night conversations—the times we shared, laughing and teaching each other music. Ike played various instruments other than the drums—he played the guitar, bass guitar, and the saxophone. Ike also had an amazing voice—man, this brother could sing. I would teach him piano and he would teach me techniques for playing the guitar.   Ike wrote some incredible music. I’m honored he let me play on his music. We were working on songs for a collaboration CD. To honor Ike’s memory, I’m going to finish that project. The songs we worked on will be on the next CD. I vow to finish and dedicate this future project to Ike.   Ike, I will always love you. My friend and brother, I’m definitely going to miss you. I’m going to miss your laugh, your sense of humor, and you telling me, “Come on Nick, you’re killing me!” whenever I said something you thought was funny. May you RIP and create some beautiful music in the Heavens with your brothers Mike and Andre.   Prayers, Condolences and Sympathy to the Wiley family.   Love always, Nick & Annette
Kenny and Betty Davis left a message on May 6, 2023:
In memory of Isaac “Ike” Wiley, Kenny and Betty Davis lit a candle
Stella S Byrd left a message on May 6, 2023:
Although I never had an opportunity to really know my cousin Ike, my condolences to the family. May your fond memories of him last forever and leave you smiling in your heart. Love, Stella & Wade Byrd ( Cousins in Michigan)
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Lois Harris left a message on May 6, 2023:
My prayers will continue to be with all .
Carlton Savage left a message on May 6, 2023:
I will truly miss you cousin Ike. We had a very special rapporteur. Thank you for your generosity and guidance with my musical ideas. Unfortunately due to distance and other logistical reasons we were unable to share a lot of time together but when we did it was very very special. You were indeed the conduit to my connection with my Ohio family. You have taught me a lasting and important lesson in life. Never loose contact with family or friends. No matter how far away or under any circumstances. Rest In Paradise. Until we meet again
Maria Johnson left a message on May 6, 2023:
To my best friend and family. Though words at this time can do little to comfort you may the thoughts and many prayers of all who love you help you at this time. We just have to wait a little while longer until John 5: 28-29 is fullfilled. Love always, Maria.
Aziza left a message on May 6, 2023:
My deepest condolences to the family. May his music, light , and laughter live on in our hearts and homes forever.
Judy Cheney left a message on May 6, 2023:
My Sincerest Condolences to my Cousins in the loss of A Great Husband n Father.. Sending Prayers to you all during this difficult time.. Love you all ❤️??
Hubert Rowe Jr. left a message on May 5, 2023:
So Sorry For Your Loss. Sending My Condolences To The Wiley Family From The Rowe Jr Family
Michael Wimbley's Family left a message on May 4, 2023:
WE WILL REMEMBER ISAAC! The beauty of a memory, is that it’s always there. Like a penny in your pocket, you can take it anywhere. Ease your grief, he is not gone, for in your heart, he lingers on. His smile, his laugh, his special way, will comfort you, from day to day. And when your heart is heavy, and your eyes are filled with tears, you can focus on a memory, and travel through the years. You’ll feel his presence in the breeze, that dances gently, through the trees. And it’s his face that you shall see, when you’re in need of company. Your heart will visit happy times, when laughter filled the air, and the presence of Isaac, will lessen your despair. So, as you travel on through life, take comfort as you go, in a lifetime of “sweet memories” of Isaac’s loving soul! FAMILY LOVE!
Sabrina Hatten Robinson left a message on May 4, 2023:
My deepest sympathy to the entire Wiley family. From childhood to adulthood Isaac was and remained “genuine”. A rarity in life these days. Extremely talented in so many genres, Isaac did it his way! Love and Light Sabrina Hatten Robinson
Herman Ezell Jr left a message on May 1, 2023:
Isaac "Ike" Wiley, was a rare mix of talent, humility, compassion, and patience amongst many other things. Who knew, that when my band Jady Kurrent opened the show for the Grammy Award Winning Dazz Band in 1986 at the Front Row Theater, years later, Ike would became a good friend and mentor. Our love of drums, became the common denominator. He taught me to be a student for life, never stop learning. I used that same concept in my daily life, reaching levels of success that I never imagined. Thank you my friend ... thank you.
Debra Ellis left a message on April 29, 2023:
My Condolences to the entire Family.
Roy King left a message on April 29, 2023:
There were two bands playing an enormous party for theCleveland Clinic in the lodge area of then Jacobs Field. Ike and I chatted before we all started for about half an hour. He told me of being on the road in his car and driving to the next town ahead of the band. to do all the promotional work. Just amazing. I will miss Ike everyday
DeeDee Dannison Brown left a message on April 28, 2023:
You have my deepest condolences.
Brenda Cowell left a message on April 27, 2023:
Please accept our deepest condolences. Isaac was a great friend and an incomparable musician. He will be forever missed. Much love to Beverly and the family. Sincerely, Doug and Brenda Cowell
condolence-image Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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