Gary Konow

Decades ago, I was a young adult student of Professor Konow's at Aquinas. Looking back on this time, so many things come to mind. But, the 1st and most consistent memory is a word: "agape"; a Greek term for love. The internet provides a good definition for it: "Agape love involves faithfulness, commitment, and an act of the will. It is distinguished from the other types of love by its lofty moral nature and strong character. Agape love is beautifully described in 1 Corinthians 13."

Ingrid and Kristina,
Just found out about your dad's passing. I still hold fond memories of times visiting in your home with your mom and dad, of all their good work with Right to Life and UM Renewal. Your dad helped me edit a piece I wrote for national publication on Right to Life issues. His faith,wisdom,and sense of humor made a difference to so many! Our prayers are with you, friends in Christ.

Kris and Ingrid,

Pam and I were so saddened to learn of your Dad's passing. To be sure, "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord," and he is now with your Mom again. But that doesn't remove the hurt of your losing him, and for that, we grieve with you.

You Dad was a dear friend and a wise counselor to me during my years at the Leighton UMC. I will always be grateful for the many ways in which he encouraged and helped and, yes, exhorted me. What an amazing...

Kris and Ingrid, your dad was such a great guy. He made an significant difference in my life. He was COACH, but to me he was so much more... showing understanding during a time of life when I was pretty much a mess. I was so fortunate to have spent so much time at the Carriage House as the department secretary and student of the theater. I will always hold a special place for him in my heart.

With my second time around with Finnian's Rainbow it was Gary Konow's insight and brilliance which allowed me to play the black Mayor in that musical. My second time around was a much more substantial chance to display some acting and singing skill.
I will always be grateful for that opportunity. IT was an ingenious way to avoid the stigma of racism, and it was all cleverly done to everyone's delight and amazement. There was no fuss and that was as it should have been, and so it is quietly...

Coach WAS The Carriage House. It was our home, and he was so happy to be overseeing it. I loved hanging out in his office and talking about jazz and... whatever. I was so comfortable working with him as an actor -- and he would cast me WAY against type -- that he gladly agreed to reverse the roles, acting in the film I directed that got me accepted into NYU and onto my path as a filmmaker. But I will never forget the atmosphere he created and fostered in that funky little theatre, and the...

Say Professor,needed to have you know I picked up a Wyandotte no.85 Hydro Jet water pistol 1950 rare.The Poet let me know today of your passing but you will forever be alive with me in our bond and brotherhood of Wyandotte Toy's.I've heard that heaven is full of mint one's.Kathy can help collect and organize till we all get there.With love to you and gratitude to a great,great friend..The Painter.Deepest regard's and love to Kris,Ingrid,Mike and the kid's

Kris and Ingrid,

Dick McClain just sent me a message telling me or your Dad's passing. I am so sorry to hear the news. I really enjoyed getting to know all the Konows during my time at Leighton. I always enjoyed talking with your Dad whenever we would visit your home - he was so easy to talk to, and so full of knowledge on a myriad of subjects.

I hope both of you are doing well. It doesn't seem like over 30 years have gone by since I left Caledonia.

Please know...

Ingrid and Kris, I can't help but think of your dad Gary every time I think of Aquinas and my wonderful years working with him. He talked so proudly of you both. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Becky Stewart-Gross