George Roeder Obituary

I'm very grateful to have met and studied under George Roeder, who has turned out to be an enormous influence on my life as an artist and teacher. All who had the good fortune to meet him will surely miss his warmth and generosity; those who know him only through his writing will miss his brilliance and insight. My prayers for his family.

George Roeder’s life greatly and positively affected me. I first met George one-on-one in the Fall of 1997 when he served on my writing critique panel at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. His critical and tender insight toward my writing proved invaluable. When the opportunity arose a year later to become his teaching assistant, I knew I would be foolish to pass up the chance to work for this special and remarkable scholar, writer, teacher, and person.



I TA’d for George during his "Artist in Society Class”. I had no idea what path my life would take after graduation, even though I knew I needed a job that could economically support me while nourishing my literary art. Working with George opened the world of teaching to me. His enthusiasm toward teaching, scholarship, and writing wrapped itself around my soul.



George was more than a great writer and scholar; most importantly, he was a great person. While many people go through life thinking only of themselves, George gave of himself countless times in countless ways. Here are a few small personal examples. After I graduated, George continued to write letters of recommendation on my behalf for writing fellowships and teaching opportunities. However, his overall humanity shined the most brightly in my eyes (as well as in the eyes of others). Despite the spring month, the April day of my nuptials proved freezing. Wardrobe-wise, I was ill prepared because my wedding dress was not designed for Chicago's lake-effect wind. But George saved the day by covering my shoulders with the coat he was wearing. That photo of Bill and me kissing on the steps of Holy Name Cathedral shows George's coat around my shoulders and serves as the picture for my wedding album’s cover.



George gave me insights into my own writing and life. Despite my lack of self-esteem toward my literary and teaching abilities, George continued to believe in my work and me. What he gave me can never be measured or adequately expressed. I am truly blessed to have known George as a friend as well as a mentor; I terribly miss him. Heaven is lucky to now include George Roeder as one of its saints.

George was a wonderful teacher. He made the subject matter come alive. I was blessed to have him as my teacher. He will be missed by many.

George was, and is in my mind, an effervescent presence, someone whose broad capacity for life was both enviable and daunting to those who would try to keep up

Everyone that ever met George will never forget him. His love of family, friends, learning, and life was boundless.

We will miss him dearly.

George Roeder was a one-of-a-kind person who loved life and lived it, his way, to the fullest. I will miss our vibrant discussions together. He will be with us in fond memory at many future family events.



PLA