John Gelsomino Obituary

Won´t ever forget Jack and his many talents! His support of the performing arts and the motivation he shared with fellow artists was outstanding! Bravo!

I am many years late here, but my sympathy to all of Dr. Gelsomino's family is no less sincere. I am sincerely sorry for this huge loss. Dr. G. directed me as the lead in "No, No Nanette" in my junior year at Curie, 1974. I remember being this scared but semi talented little junior, my first year at Curie, and how he gently showed me that I WAS Nanette! I can still envision him broadly smiling up at me from the pit while conducting our very first dress performance of Peach on the Beach. What a glow he had! What an encouragement to this scared insecure kid. He was so proud of us all, he was tough love incarnate, he never lowered the bar on his expectations of us, and I'm quite sure that not a one of us from Curie's very proud first graduating class didn't benefit from the faith he had in us, and the love for music that he instilled in us all. I'll remember him as someone who paid you a compliment, and you were on cloud 9 for days. That is what you did for me, sir. And for so many more. I thank you. Job very well done, rest well, Dr. G. Impossible dream accomplished, sir.

"Mr. G" was bigger than life to me at Kelly HS. He was the most talented musician I have ever known. Whether it was the Marching Band, the Concert band, or the Jazz Band, he was equally inspiring. I was just thinking fondly of him as I was listening to my newly digitized album "Somethin' New, Somethin' Old" from 1971, that he recorded. Unfortunately, the record and my trombone, are the only connections I still have to that wonderful time in my life.

Four years of music with Gelsomino, and also the opportunity to work next to him as a teacher taught me and many others

John Gelsomino's genius, shared exuberance for music and the performing arts lives on in the students he taught and myself.
I have warm memories of performing in
My Fair Lady as an Ascot Lady and one of the Maids. Secretly wanted to be the lead in that play and the one that followed..
The Man of LaMancha where John Gelsomino played the lead role. Beautiful lyrics!

I had a wonderful time going to the Orange Bowl, being in the Parade and participating in a Gatorade commercial. I have to apologize for leaving the band's music behind in Miami. As one of the file clerks for sheet music, once I got to Florida, all bets were off!
I hope you got the box of sheet music back somehow!

Chorus was also a joy! Cindy Bates Howe, Kelly 1971

I particularly enjoyed the time I had with John in Scouting activities. He & I shared many of the same opinions and could discuss various issues at length. In addition to my appreciation of his skills & dedication, it was obvious that many others had the same opinion.

I posted the following note on the Kelly message board on Classmates last July 3rd. "I was in beginning band at Gunsaulus with Mr. G and then involved with the music and drama departments at the Main the remainder of my years at Kelly. What a shock! His presence used to intimidate me, perhaps I was just in awe of his greatness. He no longer has to fight those windmills. And I'm sure he not only dreamed the impossible dream but lived it as well. May he rest in peace."

Dr. Gelsomino eased my re-entry into the Chicago school system by enabling me to fill in as a couple of years (1976-78) as the director of the Curie girls' choirs because of my theatrical background. Consequently, I had some of my most rewarding and enjoyable experiences with CPS. I loved his enthusiasm and advocacy for all things musical. His spirit will be greatly missed.

I am truly saddened and even a bit shocked to hear of the passing of our beloved "Mr G". As a member of the Kelly H.S. band from '68 through '72, he was THE driving force behind many of my dreams, and later, my accomplishments. Mr G always had a way of making you know you COULD do whatever you truly dreamed of doing. And then he would take the step most avoid...he would actively HELP you, inspire you, support you, chastise you when you got a bit off-track, and then be the loudest of the cheers when you got things going right!
Mr G was, simply stated..my hero. I loved him like no other teacher (and almost no other adult) in my high school days. My days under his wing in Drama, and in the band will always be among my most treasured memories.
Get ready, God!! The new band director has arrived in heaven...and the band is in for a bang-up concert!
My sincerest condolences for your loss and ours...one of the greatest men I've ever known is gone.

Tommy Dee Walker
(baritone horn, 1968-72)

I just found out that Mr. Gelsomino passed away and I am deeply saddened. My condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues.

I was fortunate enough to have Mr. G as my band director at Kelly High School. Thanks to his tireless leadership, I have indelible memories of playing in such places as the Civic Opera House, Erie Crown Theater and Orchestra Hall. Though he rarely spoke to me directly, Mr. G, nevertheless made me realize that I can accomplish anything if I try hard enough. He demanded my very best, which in-turn made me realize just how easy it really was. Even though I was merely a mediocre French horn player in his band, he nevertheless overlooked my small mistakes and focused instead on my efforts and commitment to the group. Luckily for me, Mr. G always had enough respect for his students that he never embarrassed anyone individually. As a band though, he never hesitated to give us a “piece of his mind”, but that is what made the band great. No one in band ever spoke ill of Mr. G no matter how hard he pushed us. I guess way down deep inside, we all sensed his deep commitment to the band and his genuine concern for us....though we were not able to put it into words back then.

I will never forget that at concerts, he would always humbly step aside during the applause and give the honor to the band despite the fact that it was always his tireless efforts that got us there in the first place. And quite often, in parades, he would imitate Robert Preston proudly, and comically, leading the band just like in the musical “Music Man”.

I never again saw or spoke to Mr. G once I graduated from high school, but he will forever live in my heart as one of my best high school memories. Thank you Mr. G for allowing me the opportunity to accomplish something I never thought I could and for believing in me way before I believed in myself.

Patricia Carey (Haro)
Class of ’72, Kelly H.S.

Jack, I'm sorry but I just discovered your passing. You were a great teacher and friend whom I have never forgotten. I am saddened that we never got back together after I graduated in '67. May you find peace, dear friend.

Sincere Sympathy for John's Family, It was always fun talking with him about gold and silver rare coins, I grew to know him very well over the last few years.

God bless Him :>)

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved husband and father. "Mr. G" as I knew him during my 1967-1971 high school band days at Kelly was a true inspiration. His lessons in perserverance and hard work have guided me through life.

Dear Gelsomino family, I worked with Dr. Gelsomino at Curie for all the shows for my junior, senior, and then some. I was a member of the kiwaniis with him. He really inspired a huge number of students who were in the performing arts. His talents, his humour and personality will surely be missed by all. The world has loss a truly remarkable man. I wish I would of known of his death sooner, as I would of attended his funeral. He meant a great deal to me and my family. Our sympathy is with you at this time.
Sincerely, Thomas Wagner and family Curie class of 1975

My first year at Curie was my sophmore year. I will never forget that he allowed my to sit in the orchestra pit to assist in "The Sound of Music". It was wonderful watching him conduct and direct at the same time. My prayers are with you and you family.

I so enjoyed the 4th of July concerts at the Historical Society & was glad I talked to him last year after the concert to express thanks & ask him something. I am saddened at this loss, but know that God is in control.

Sincerely yours,
D. Tsakiridis, Lakeview neighborhood, Chicago, Illinois

The 1969–1970 school year at Kelly will always be remembered, by those of us who were students then, for multiple high points; concert band and jazz band championships and that incredible trip to the Orange Bowl. It was the music geeks who were the school's champions, not our sports teams, all under Jack's direction. As a member of the Kelly Band and Drama Club and later as an instructor for the Dist. 12 Performing Arts Center I have to say that Jack and I weren't always on the same page. But, his organizational skills, commitments of time and energy, and ability to get students to perform and deliver can never be denied. Jack, along with his then Kelly cohort Bob Quin, helped so many of us realize that even coming from our blue collar backgrounds, the performing arts were there for our taking.

Mrs Gelsomino,

Your husband made a huge impact on me as a young kid at Curie (1972-76), and an even bigger impact as an adult. My heart goes out to the family and my hat goes off to a superior man who has truly made differences in lot's of our lives. Kudos! And smile for he's still looking down and smiling.

Dear Gelsomino Family,
I went to Farragut High School and graduated in 1961. Thanks to yur husband, father, my last year there was wonderful. We had the best time ever in Girls Chorus and it was a proud moment to all dressed in formal attire singing 'Its A Grand Night For
Singing' at Harrison Highschool's Auditorium. He had big shoes to fill replacing Mrs. Marie Muench who had been there forever, and he did so with grace and dignity.
Thank Yous to him.
I am so sorry for your loss. He did a lot in a short time.
Sincerely,
Sharon Klatt Novotny
Orland Park IL

My thoughts and prayers are with his family. I remember Dr. Gelsomino from my high school days at Curie. Whether it be with the Curie band or working behind the scenes with plays, his door was always opened whenever we needed something. His knowledge touched many young lives then, and continues today.

Dear Mrs. Gelsomino and family:
My deepest sympathies go out to each and every one of you. I have known Dr. G since 1977 and could not have know a better person.

He started by getting me into Curie so I could be in the choir and shows. (I was supposed to be at Kelly) Then he took me under his wing and I worked int he office for him and with Ms. Thompson. He truly knew how to bring out the best in a person and make them rise to a higher level of performance. I will never forget the time he turned me from a 1st Soprano to a tenor in a scene from My Fair Lady. I was also a part of the summer programs with him at Curie. My fondest memories are the concerts in the parks that we used to do, but more than that was the way only he could sing "Ol Man River". Just thinking about it I can hear his voice clear as day. He was a great teacher, musician, and leader. God truly has a new person to lead his heavenly choir.

May God bless and keep you in this sorrowful time.

Brenda "Powers" Novak - Curie Class of 1981

Dr. G is responsible for creating some of my most cherished memories at Curie. Through his high expectations, I discovered I was always capable of more than I gave myself credit for. He had a special way of making us feel so proud of our efforts, while it was he who was doing so much of the work! He was a talented man who blessed us all with his presence. His family will be in our thoughts at this difficult time.

I am deeply sorry for your loss. i had just found out about Dr. G passing away. He has a special place in many of the hearts of his former students. He always made sure to make everyone feel that they can do anything, and gave many an opportunity to do so. He will be greatly missed by all.

I am profoundly saddened by this loss and for to all that knew him. Dr. G, as we fondly called him, along with Sue, made some of the very first musical and theatrical impressions on me, and countless others. His departure is indeed a loss but yet his legacy a blessing to all that were privileged to work with him.

Trevór L. Mitchell

My heart sank when I was informed of Dr. G.'s death. I'd just e-mailed him on June 10th to join us as a surprise guest at our upcoming Curie Drama Club reunion.

The man was truly legendary in the Curie Performing Arts Department! He was a great talent (I used to love to hear him play piano in the auditorium) and musical conductor. I will always remember him, baton in hand, gazing up at me from the orchestra pit during our many performances. He knew every nuance of each score, and would sing the various instrumental parts while he directed. Furthermore, he treated us high school kids like professional actors, always bringing the best out of our performances. Those musicals at Curie, to this day, were the highlight of my life. I thank him for making those times so special and wonderful.

I know he made the most of his life by touching so many with his gift of music. May his heart lie peaceful and calm as he's laid to his rest.

God bless the family as they mourn this great man--a treasure to all who knew him.

Love,

Kathleen (Bigness) Bedrio
Curie H.S. 1980-84
Chicago, IL

I just found out about G and I was shocked. Like so many entries I have to say that he was responsible for the way I have lived my life. He was an amazing man I am sorry for his loss.

I was one of many band students that were honored to be under the direction of such a good and positive role model when it came to music and just being a good person. He inspired many to become a better person both, in music and as a good citizen in the community. I only got to know him while attending Kelly High School, but for this short time, he allowed me to grow by bestowing the honor of being the Student Director of the Marching Band. Our band performed at just about every Chicago Downtown Holiday parade, and when I approached him about taking our band to a higher level, he encouraged me to go ahead and think outside the box. I was part of getting the invitation to march in The Orange Bowl parade in 1970. Under his tutelage we became a music power that made an impact here in Chicago and representing the city at this special event. This is just one of many success stories that he helped create.
I know that we all will miss him, but will always have great memories of him and how he touched each and every one of us with his passions of music, and respect for his fellow man and community. To his family, our prayers and heartfelt thoughts go out to you. Please know that he was loved by us all.
Lawrence R. Huerta
Class of 1970

I am shocked and saddened by the news of Jack's death.Jack was a wonderful colleague when I was principal of Foreman and he of Kelly. I especially remember a city soccer championship when our schools squared off against each other. We had an enjoyable rivalry which we carried over to District meetings. He was a special man and he will be missed. Please extend my deepest sympathy and prayers to your family

I am very saddened to hear that Mr. G passed away. I played Aldonza in Man of La Mancha with him and it is still one of the most memorable roles I've had. He got us the "New York" costumes which gave our characters so much more! What a great performer and teacher! My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Gelsomino while out of town last week.

He was a principled man whose character, leadership, and principles did not waver with changing times. Jack was a throwback to the times of Teddy Roosevelt and the rough riders. Jack had an indomitable rugged individualism of character that set him apart as a leader in everything he did. Although a leader in the many areas of teaching, music, old time radio and other pursuits I knew Jack best through Scouting. He first called upon me to become a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 92 in Riverside in 1990. I accepted this position with him and became an Eagle Scout under his direction shortly thereafter. I proudly served with him in Scouting and also proudly remember reuniting with him and sharing a homemade Italian Sub at the Italian picnic after I had returned from military service in Bosnia in 1997. Although I have not seen him recently his friendship has always been in my thoughts. I would like to share with you one of my favorite campfire stories that Dr. G told me the last time we were Scouting together.

I walked with Dr. G down to the Michigan lake on a quiet summer night and he told me that someone had once asked him to explain the nature of a Boy Scout field mass while camping. Dr. G quietly pointed out to the lake and said,

"I told the man that the lake was the building and foundation of the church and the trees and animals around us were part of the congregation. Then I pointed to the clear sky and the many stars and said that there was God and heaven and that was the spirit of a boy scout field mass."

Forever onward whenever I look into the clear night sky I know I will see the spirit of Dr. G, a star shining brightly down to all of us from heaven, smiling.

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

I was a nerdy little girl in high school & he cast me as Adelaide in Guys & Dolls. I found my voice & began my life's journey with courage, tenacity & optimism. Jack inspired multitudes that way. He certainly taught many beautiful, inspirational virtues. He was a maestro who was adept with both sides of his brain. God Bless him, & his family.

Jack was Asst. Prncipal when I was at Curie From 73 to 76. I have fond memories of his fairness and encouragement to me. Also his Blue Mark 3 he drove. He had a great spirit, I will never forget him.

Dear Susan and family,
Please accept my prayers at this difficult time. God bless all of you Alice Babi

John was my mentor in High School. He nurtured my raw talent and was a driving force in making me the professional working actor I am today. He was a task master but he insisted on perfection in his Performing Arts productions. It was with his love and support that you wanted to strive to do better. I also remember you Susan playing in the pit of many productions at Dist. 12 Performing Arts Summer programs and band concerts. I just found out today. My prayers are with you and your family.

Dear Susan & Family, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing our prayers are with you and your family. John and I went to Julia Ward Howe grade school together and then on to Austin High School. I saw him again at a concert in Park Ridge about ten years ago. We had a nice chat about our grade school and high school memories. He was a wonderful and kind person and he will be missed. Our prayers are with you and may God bless you.....Joan (McConville) Leander (Lombard,IL)

Jack was our son's Scoutmaster at St. Mary's in Riverside. Rick achieved Eagle Scout status by Jack being instrumental in teaching him respect for himself and others. We also remember Jack and his band playing at the annual Italian Picnic in Stone Park. Jack is a person you have the honor of knowing once in your lifetime . . . our entire family was given that honor. Our prayers are with the entire family.

Mr.& Mrs. Richard Albanese (and Rick, Jr.)
P.S. John, Rick is on vacation with his dad. He will be in touch with you.

Over 50 years have passed since I last talked to Jack. Family ties should not be allowed to slip away, to be replaced by the sorrow of this day. My condolences to Jack's family are offered and deeply felt.
Your cousin Ed Gelsey(Gelsomino)

I can't tell you how upseting this is to me. Jack was my High School band teacher at Austin, my Explorer leader at Austin back in the 60's, and a true friend. I can't believe I just saw him at Lord Baden-Powell University in March. I will truly miss him.

Dear Susan & Family:
I never knew anyone like Jack! Many would say he was a Renaisssance Man-he seemed to do everything and get every thing accomplished-by some effort or means. I was a member of the performing arts program (art dept.) and spent many hours on many plays with him...and he always made it work! He has no replacement. It is quite a loss, however he will be remembered by many. You have my deepest sympathy.

Friend, Bill Erklin, St. Petersburg, Florida

My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. John Gelsomino.

Larry Brown,Kelly High School Retiree

Dear Susan,
John was a good friend and mentor. I learned a lot from him. He will be missed. I pray your strength during this time.

Gwen Boyd

To the family of Jack Gelsomino,
I remember when Jack would allow us Austin band members call him by his first name (something very unusual in the mid-60's). He was always there for us. I lived a block away from his parents' home and would go over to ask for his advice. He brought passion into the school and the Austin HS band was great under his leadership. Years later, I saw him at Kelly HS when he was about to retire as principal. Even though it was almost 40 years later, he remembered me as one of his band students. Thank you, Jack, for believing in us and giving us the courage to strive for better things.

Dear Susan, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Dr. G. We both know
what magic he brought to the Curie Performing Arts Center. I worked for him from the day Curie opened until I retired in 1995.A better boss could not be found. I really feel a loss knowing he's not there any
more. I live on the Canadian border in Minnesota now.
Pat Thompson

My deepest sympathy to your family. He was a great friend and will be missed.

My deepest sympathies during this time for the family. I am a student from Kelly High School 1994-1998. I would just like to say that Dr. G was always a wonderful and caring person to each and every student that was in the school. He always took the time to say hi and ask us all how we were doing and give us that great big smile. He always brightened up our day and we all tried to make him proud by being the best we could be. He made us think positive and get things done in life to make us better individuals. So during this time please remember his happy smile and jolly laughter and it will bring a smile to your faces.

Kim Katello
Class of 1998 Kelly High School

Sue- My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts & prayers are with you.

Dr G.

Scouts, Scouter Leader of men, Veteran, Scouter, ...

Thank You,
WWW
Michael L. Opitz
Chicago Area Council
Scout , ScoutMaster
Student of LBPU

Dear Susan and family,

Dr G's passion for his work was an inspiration to so many students at Kelly HS.

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. He will certainly be missed.

Phyllis (Augustyniak) Kelly
Class of 1971, Thomas Kelly HS

Our prayers and sympathy to all who feel the loss of Jack. He, indeed, brought out the best in us all. For his family, please know that we pray especially for you, as you continue your lives knowing he loved you, and still loves you.

To the Family
Dr John was a inspiration to us all, his positive attitude and his knack of getting the goals accomplished always amazed me personally. I always tried to credit him for what he had done in his years in the Scouting program, but he always shook it off. He truly will be missed.
Thank You for sharing Dr. John with us.

Jim Dunlap
Three Fires Council Camping Chairman
Member of the Area 7 Commissioner Cabinet
Dean of the Lord Baden-Powell University of Scouting

I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you.

I was so fortunate to be part of the magic that Dr. G created at Kelly High School from 1969-1973. It was because of his vision and dedication that we marched in the Orange Bowl Parade. "Theater in the Streets" was also due to his hard work. Who could believe that a high school could perform the plays "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" and "Man of LaMancha." These and so many more memories from high school are because of the tireless work of Dr. G.

Dr. G did indeed dream an impossible dream and made the dream come true. Now I'm sure that he has reached the unreachable star and his influence will be felt for generations to come.

He was my music teacher in 1969/1970 and I met him when he was principal of Kelly at an all years reunion. He did a great job and will be missed. Neil Van Steemburg

Angie and Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your dad. I'll always remember him as the music director of St. Mary's. He used to pat me on the head when my family and I sat behind him at mass (as a kid). I just wanted you to know that my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Know that he is looking down upon you from Heaven always.

Dear Sue, family, extended family, and friends:

As the years passed that I grew to know Jack and his manifold facets and interests. His central axis was that he always wanted to do better and that he wanted others within his sphere of influence to do better. This was his philosophy and he created many opportunities for us to do this. This was the rare gift that the Lord had given him and how he expressed his love for others. So, the Everest of good that he has done will follow after him still and the example that he set will be a living memorial. He touched many, many lives. We prayed for "Uncle Jack" with the kids each night. Tonight we will be at peace in the knowledge that he is with our Lord. Heaven had a band concert to be organized and a new school for angels to be managed. The Lord looked and thought, who better than Jack? Ray, Karen, Karl and Kirsten will miss you much.

I have fond memories of Jack when I was a child especially around Christmas time when we would sing carols and roast chestnuts. It sounds cliche but they are memories I will never forget. He is now at peace with my Dad. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

If you met Jack, he touched your life. If you knew Jack, he changed your life. Never a more faithful friend, never a more tireless worker. Jack brought people together and made the unworkable happen as he was the embodiment of optimism. A man of strong tradition & commitment, yet always looking to the better and new. When you think of him, don't weep because he is gone - rather smile because he was with us.

Please accept my sympathy, "Mr. G" made the band fun at Austin High, I will always remember him fondly. Donna DeCicco

Dear Mrs. Gelsomino and family,

Please accept my deepest sympathy and wishes of strength to your entire family at this sorrowful time. Your tremendous loss is the loss of so many people, including mine, whose lives Dr. J. Gelsomino touched by setting an example of how to passionately love life. I will always remember him as a steadfast patriot of this country, as a passionate musician, and as an outstanding educator and leader who had a clear vision and a gift to inspire people. He left way too soon…

Daiva Skuodyte
Thomas Kelly High School, 1993-2008

Dear Sue,

Remembering John as active supporter of our "Music for Young Listeners" . Our sincere sympathy in your hour of sorrow.

Dieter and Magdalene Kober.

My first introduction to John was watching him conduct concerts in Guthrie Park in the early ‘90s. Since then, I’ve always greeted him as “Maestro.” Showman, Veteran, Scout Leader, Educator… he was, without question, one of a kind. As a South Hollywood neighbor, his house glowed with his yearly enthusiasm for holiday lighting displays. I shall miss his booming presence and his quiet friendship.

Our prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time. God bless you. Charlotte Felton and Jean Townsend, Kelly retirees

Jack became a wonderful friend from the moment I was a "Principal for a Day" at Kelly. I worked with him at Kelly, and were friends after his retirement. We will miss his wonderful mind, heart, and quest for the truth in politics. Len Wass, Oswego, IL

Please accept my sympathy on the loss of Dr. John. He was part of my life through Boy Scouts as a commissioner and with the Catholic Committee on Scouting.....God must of wanted Dr. John badly,,,because he only takes the best. He is singing up with God now.

Betty Johnson
Arrowhead District
Boy Scouts of America

Dear Sue,
The band will sit in silent rest to honor a good man who inspired others to not only make music, but to reach for their personal best. Dr G was my first mentor at Kelly HS. He inspired me back then and that inspiration remains an integral part of my life every day since. I owe my passion to always strive for the best possible level of musical and theatrical performance to his guidance and his dedication to teaching. Jack Gelsomino was a true gift to the world. I will miss him as a teacher and friend and he will never be forgotten. My most sincere condolences to you and your family at this time of loss.
Peace,
Wayne P. Messmer (Glenview, IL)

....he was a one of a kind, the consumate motivator and showman...he touched countless lives in a positive way. My deepest condolences to the family.

Kelly '67

We enjoyed his booming voice as he narrated and directed the Riverside Township Radio Players. We will think of him when we see Susan walk his two beloved "boys" through the neighborhood. Condolences to his family. May his legacy live on!

Dear Sue, God bless you and your family, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

The Choirs of Heaven welcomes their new Conductor, Dr. G
His dedication to education sets an example for all to follow.
He is the architect behind the remarkable ressurrection of Kelly High School, which has one of the best I.B. and Bilingual Programs in Chicago.
Dr. G, remember us in heaven!

Christopher Wong

He was a wonderful music teacher, he cared about his student, he tour the neighborhoods with his jazz music, he will be greatly missed.
W.E. Czornyj

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.