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Lester Goldman Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Lester Goldman
Edna Campbell
January 16, 2006
I am so pleased to have one of Lester's paintings which was a gift when I retired from the Art Institute in 1989. We were treated to a brunch in the Goldman home which was such a pleasure. I remember when we went to leave your young daughter showed us what a sandwich hug was. I was fortunate to become good friends with Mr. and Mrs Topp and shared many lunches with them when they would come to the city. I was happy to see that Mrs. Topp is with you Katrin. Lester touched many lives, not only with his art work but the kind of person he was.
Jennifer Fox
November 28, 2005
To the Goldmans,
My sister, Alison, and I came across the announcement of Lester's passing in the KCAI Fall 'O5 Alumni Notes. My sister had the privilege of being a student of Lester's in 1992. She tells me he was instrumental in helping her look deeper within herself for inspiration and meaning in her artwork. He was kind and patient.
My family also had a connection with the Goldmans through Bryant Elementary. Alison and I went to school with Chris from a young age.
Our thoughts are with the Goldmans. And it is very clear that Lester left a deep imprint on the world around him and will not be forgotten. Take care, The Foxes
nicole emanuel
October 6, 2005
I was Warren Rosser’s assistant in the early 1990's and enjoyed Lester in staff meetings and around the Painting Department. One particular memory is when we were having a Department “Review” process meeting, which was quite tiresome in some regards. While we were discussing the history of the Department and its future, Lester began to play with his retracting measuring tape, lining up various little objects on its surface. He suddenly pressed the release and all the objects shot up into the air bouncing around like a Rube Goldberg effect. He is a playful, imaginative being.
Lester's influence on the KC art scene runs deeply through his students and friends. He will be greatly missed by many people. Respectfully,
Nicole Emanuel
Chris LaValley
October 5, 2005
Lester was my painting and drawing instructor my senior year at the Tute (89 grad). He had a tremendous influence on how I look at my work and my creative process. His passing will be greatly felt in the art world. He will be missed.
Dan Oliver
October 5, 2005
Lester was really a parental surrogate for me during my time in Kansas City (the late '80s). Being in his class felt like being in a family. One time, I even had a classic Freudian slip by accidentally calling him "Dad." With his contagious enthusiasm, Lester taught me to love to work. He had a concept he called "plork," which is the combination of play and work. I have introduced this very Goldmanist idea to my children. One day, while helping Lester move some of his work in his studio, I noticed one of his plaster reliefs and told him I liked it very much. He said, "Oh that? I never finished it. Why dont you take it and finish it?" —which I did. Thank you, Lester, for all that you have taught me about art, and about being human. I'll try to live up to your example and pass it on.
Mark Greenberg
October 1, 2005
I was lucky to be at KCAI when Lester was an instructor. His presence on campus was a huge positive force, one that I felt and benefited from even before taking his drawing class. Lester was full of energy and joy and this translated to his work, to his conversations, and rubbed off on his students. He is and was a big inspiration for my friends and me, one we will not forget or keep far from our thoughts. Thank you Lester!
Mary Livoni
September 30, 2005
I was a student of Lester's in the mid-80's. I remember Lester telling me about watching the mummer's parade in Philadelphia as a kid. I remember him telling the story of the 55 gallons of blue laughter.(this involved Stanley Lewis and a shipment of blue pigment)I remember that he loved to dance and would improvise funny and beautiful movements. I could list many, many other happy memories. I remember him as full of curiosity, intelligence and wit. I remember how generous he was in spirit.
Sarah Fitzsimmons Gier
September 29, 2005
I am so fortunate to have known Lester and to have been his neighbor. It was wonderful to be around him, to enjoy his sense of humor and to see his talent in action. I send my prayers to Kathrin, Chris, Jakob and Amanda.
Claire Fitzsimmons
September 29, 2005
I can't tell you all the wonderful memories I have of Lester. Being next-door neighbors to Lester and Kathrin for so many years, it was a joy to watch the kids grow up. The Goldmans couldn't have been better neighbors - and people. Lester will be missed.
Laura Fitzsimmons-Keeling
September 29, 2005
To all the Goldman's.
I was so sorry to hear about Lester. The kids and I have so many wonderful memories of all of you, especially the turtles (we have one too.) Take care.
Maureen Fitzsimmons
September 29, 2005
Dear Dear Goldman Family, I was so saddened to hear about Lester's death. My entire family (who were next door neighbors for years) is grieving for you and my thoughts are with everyone. Lester's kind heart and fun and zest for life are what I remember. So patient and kind and tolerant of our nutty large family. I spent much time at your house and found it so warm, inviting and intriguing. Good thoughts to you all.
Maureen
Mary Linford
September 29, 2005
I was a student of Lester's and am deeply saddened by the news of Lester's passing. There is now a hole left by his wonderful spirit and personality. I feel lucky enough to have a piece of his art, and it will now have even more meaning. I will never forget what Lester taught me, "you work with what you have, and you make what you have work" and "no excuses". His teachings still guide my daily life. Thank you Lester, you are missed.
Janet Reimer
September 28, 2005
I was a student of Lesters back in the 70's. It is with deep regret that I learned of his passing. His family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Keith A. Gaston
September 28, 2005
Although I never really had him for a class, when we saw each other in passing, he would always show warm greetings. My blessing to the family.
Holly Fisher
September 28, 2005
Sending my thoughts and much love to the Goldman family, and remembering the Goldman home, in which I felt such a warm community of friends, family, artists, and students like myself.
David Rolston
September 28, 2005
Lester was one of my painting professors at the Kansas City Art Institute. I admired his energy, ability and his sense of humor. One of my fondest memories during that time is that I was confiding in him about a time of indecision I was having.
His reply was "FOLLOW YOUR HEART".
I will never forget that. Thankyou Lester
David Rolston
September 28, 2005
Lester was one of my painting professors at the Kansas City Art Institute. I admired his energy, ability and his sense of humor. One of my fondest memories during that time is that I was confiding in him about a time of indecision I was having.
His reply was "FOLLOW YOUR HEART".
Thankyou Lester
craig bruns
September 28, 2005
What a crazy and wonderful spirit he expressed in his work, certainly a gift to the world like none other. Oh, could he paint!
DST Friends of Chris
September 26, 2005
Our hearts go out to the Goldman family.
carol meunier
September 25, 2005
To the Goldman family, my heart goes out to you during this time of sorrow. Lester, will be included in my prayers.
I always admired Lester's talent and his very kind nature. He was a wonderful person.
You now have some special memories to keep forever, of a delightful and good man.
My sincere sympathy,
Carol A. Meunier
Judith Sanazaro
September 25, 2005
To my dear colleague and friend, I'll miss you.
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