James H. Lauffer

May the Lord Bless You

Mr. Lauffer's music class was the best part of my high school experience at a very lonely, depressed time for me. By singing in the choir I was introduced to music and composers that have stayed with me thence forward -- specifically the Coronation Mass and the works of Benjamin Britten and Randall Thompson. Attending the memorial service was a rich experience -- exquisite music by his talented family and others, and the opportunity to know him better. Thanks, Mr. Lauffer and family and...

Mr. Lauffer was a wonderful man, teacher, and mentor. Our deepest sympathy goes to the Lauffer family. I know he will be missed. He had such beautiful clear blue eyes, I loved his smirky smile, and humor. You knew he was nearby because he was always humming or whistling. His passion for music was contageous. He was instrumental in teaching me to love music, especially singing. He helped me find the gift God gave me and taught me how to share it with others. He encouraged me in a way...

By the way, the service was overwhelmingly beautiful. There was no better way for his family to show their love than to talk, sing, and play as they did. Extraordinary.

I have happy memories of being in the midst of the Lauffer family when they super-supplemented the Choir at UUPrinceton. Jim always had us laughing. My best wishes to the family at this time of sharp transitions.

As has been mentioned in many previous posts, Mr. Lauffer was an amazing teacher, director and mentor. Even after 42 years I still can see him putting everything he had into our summer theater productions and if he was giving 100%, you'd better be doing the same. But he made you want to give it your all to make him proud and put on the best show possible.
For a kid to give up every weekday night in August to rehearse, there's got to be a major motivational force driving that desire and...

Jim Lauffer was one of those teachers that you never forget. A great sense of humor, a passion for music, and a great interest in all of the kids that he taught. He was an inspiration to me in many ways. He will be missed.
My sympathy to his family. Carla L. Gaiser

We'll miss you, Jim. Peter carries on your legacy.

Let me add my gratitude and my condolences. Music was a huge part of my time at Lawrenceville -- Mr. Lauffer made it both challenging and rewarding. I'm lucky to have been his student.