Andrew G. Carrigan

Andy introduced me to the world of poetry at Forsythe and Huron. He shared his poetry and taught us to share ours. He brought in Galway Kinnell, Donald Hall, Ted Berrigan and more to make poetry human and personal for us. You opened the eyes of a generation of your students.

Bart Johnson, Eugene Oregon

I was a student teacher under Andrew Carrigan in 1967 at Forsythe Junior High. I've never forgotten him -- he was truly an inspiration. He arranged for me to practice teach in his English class for gifted students as well as direct a special study class for a small group of struggling students. I also worked with the students producing the school yearbook. He was a marvelous mentor and I treasure the insights I gained from him.

Andy and I met in Ann Arbor in 1970 through Donald Hall. We got on, and Andy asked me if I'd come and read and talk to some students at both Huron and Pioneer High Schools. His enthusiasm, his affection and care for his students, his generosity with his knowledge and his time, all impressed me. We were friends for more than forty years. I often saw him during his year teaching in England (with a side trip to Germany to buy a BMW which he took back to the US), stayed with him in Saline; and...

Mr. Carrigan was my English teacher at Forsythe Junior High School in about 1965. Fifty years later, I still remember some of the creative writing techniques he taught us. He was fun, interesting, and caring.

Andy (I never called him Andrew) was an English teacher at Huron when I was a novice and completely inexperienced educator. What I will remember most about him is his laugh, his wit, his bringing Galway Kinnell (poet laureate of Ireland) to Huron -- he loved the word, the wit and the wisdom of literature -- and he convinced more than one reluctant reader to enter the magic of story -- Liz Gray

Happy memories of a lovely guy. Much love to his family. still read his work, always will.

Dear Sue,
Sorry to learn this sad news, remembering you fondly, thinking of the twinkle in Andrew's eye, the dear partnership you shared for all these years, and the sanity, cheer and life you both brought to those who shared your universe . . .
May the road rise up to meet you, with stars light to your way.
Much love,
Dina

Just a note to say what a pleasure it was to have known Andrew. My son Jeff and I golfed with him on many occasions and always enjoyed his company and his insight into the crazy game that we all loved to play.