Deason Family

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Origin: Birch Hills, Saskatchewan, 🇨🇦
Biography:

The Deason Family was a Saskatchewan-based band hailing from Birch Hills. Active from the 1970s to the 1980s, this talented family released two albums: one pop and one gospel. Both albums were recorded at Ken Singer’s recording studio in Vancouver. The lineup included Paul Deason (bass, vocals), Lorne Deason (piano, vocals), Laura Deason, Maureen Deason, Sharon Deason, and Diana Deason (vocals).

The family band performed extensively across Saskatchewan, traveling in their baby blue 1976 Dodge MaxiWagon equipped with a Traynor PA system purchased from Hal Turner at Gordie Brandt’s. They were supported by a variety of talented musicians over the years. Drummers included Kim Harris, Wayne Rollack, Del Herter, Rand Luhning, and Daryl Lukan. Guitarists who joined them included Larry LeBlanc, Peter LaLonde, Dennis Adams, and Ron Bodnarchuk. Occasionally, Larry Leland played baritone sax, and Doug Berntsen contributed on trumpet. Sharon and Diana also played violin, with Sharon performing with The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra.

The Deason Family became a staple at events like The Prince Albert Winter Festival Variety Shows, the Reign of Grain Show at Buffalo Days in Regina, and numerous exhibitions and clubs, including the Imperial Room at the King George in Saskatoon, The Louis Riel in Prince Albert, and The Coach and Three in Melfort. They were also featured at Kinsmen functions, including New Year’s Eve celebrations at The Sheraton Top of the Inn in Saskatoon, and even hosted a hospitality room for National Kinsmen President Jim Scarrow at the St. Regis Hotel in Winnipeg. Additionally, the family played at the annual Raven Hop in Thompson, Manitoba, and collaborated multiple times with the comedy act Metro and Jacques Strap, performed by Les Pavelich and Neil Headrick.

The Deason Family frequently put on community concerts in Weldon and Birch Hills, and Maureen became known for singing the national anthem at Saskatoon Blades games. Paul also played bass with the local Prince Albert group Charlemagne, while Lorne expanded his musical repertoire, joining Penny Arcade in Prince Albert and PS & Jamie in Saskatoon. Lorne also took on solo gigs in the mid-1980s, including performing at the WK Kitchen in Prince Albert, Tucker’s on 22nd Street in Saskatoon, and the Fireplace Lodge at the PA Travelodge. He accompanied many local singers, including Nancy Olsen, Linda Mackie, Brynn Boback, Rhonda Oftedal, and Connie Ballendine.

Lorne’s career extended into blues and jazz collaborations, performing with Glenn Burrell in the combo Double Gold at The Golden Anchor in Saskatoon. He and Bob Crowe served as musical directors for the annual Legal Follies Show at the Centennial Auditorium in Saskatoon for three years, working with the Gillis Brothers (Richard and Glen, on trumpet and sax) for iconic performances of songs like Stevie Wonder’s Isn’t She Lovely and Chicago’s Beginnings.

In 1980, Lorne Deason released a self-titled solo album that showcased his musical talent and marked a highlight in his career. Decades later, the album has become a sought-after collector's item. In 2025, a copy sold for an impressive USD 500, underscoring its rarity and the lasting appeal of Deason’s work to music enthusiasts. This sale is a testament to Lorne's impact, not only as part of the Deason Family but as a solo artist whose artistry continues to resonate.

The Deason Family also played at Expo 86 in Vancouver in the Saskatchewan Pavilion, a crowning achievement for the group. Today, all the siblings live in Saskatoon, except Lorne, who resides in Moose Jaw. Their story remains an enduring piece of Saskatchewan's musical legacy.