Dr. Gary H. Toops

Gary, we lost touch decades ago. But in going through possessions while downsizing, I came across a change-of-address card, and I decided to look you up. Sadly, I found you'd changed address again, to one where I can't reach you. Had I been able to contact you in person, I would have said thanks for your friendship in a time when I was undergoing a dramatic change in my life. And I would have thanked you for the incredible favor you did for me in Luxembourg, helping me to locate someone I was...

Dr. Toops. Gary. Wow, he had a real impact on my life and life experiences, and I owe a lot to him. One of the most challenging and difficult professors I ever had, but because of his demand for excellence and (near) perfection in my Russian studies, I can say I lived in Russia and beyond, and am proud to have called him my professor and later, a friend. I am a better person because of Gary Toops.

Truly very sorry. Too long time ago we met last time, yet memorable.
Ivana Bozdechova, Prague

I'm sorry to hear of the death, so young, of a fellow Slavic linguist and language teacher. I knew him only from occasional conferences, but liked and respected him.

Remember some good times with that dude...RIP my friend!!

Dr. Toops changed my life. He kept me motivated and in school during a very hard time in my life, and he never expected less from me or treated me like I was his inferior. He went out of his way to make sure I had every opportunity to succeed in all 7 classes I took from him. I loved his sense of humor, his blazing intellect, and his demand for excellence from any and all students. It is so wonderful to find a teacher who thinks enough of you to push you to reach farther and strive harder...

Without a doubt the most talented and knowledable professor I have ever had.Thanks to you I learned a great deal of Russian. Thanks to you I was able to get into graduate school.LarryThank you for everything Dr.Toops.

A remarkable linguist, and an interesting conversationalist: your expertise was highly valued, and your intellect will be missed.G?????????? ?????????????? ? ???? ???????? ????.

I was in your first class at WSU on your first day. I never looked back. You were great and I would never have completed a minor in Russian if not for you. I treasured your friendship and your sense of humor still makes me smile. I will miss you. God bless.