Leo Hamalian

I was a student in the late 60's eary 70s. He was awesome. Here it is, 2025 and I just gave my New Black Play Wrights Anthology by Couch to an ex-student of mine who is now a professor and dear friend. The memories of the class he and Frederick Karl taught where they brought in famous writers: Kozinsky, Adreienne Rich, Ginsberg . . .just flooding back. I think they brought us to see Memories In Dark Old Men (in the anthology) and we met the author. CCNY . . . absolutely the best...

Not only was Leo a loving grandfather to me, but his enthusiasm and interest towards my school studies and aspirations encouraged me to succeed and always strive for my best. I will always carry that enthusiasm with me, along with all of the cherished memories. I feel very fortunate to have had him in my life.

I loved Leo because he was my grandfather. I will always remember his card tricks, candy drawer, and disregard for the "don't feed Daisy people food" rule. He taught me the importance of reading and education, and the importance of keeping your fingers away from moving engine parts. He was amazingly accomplished and I thank him for what I feel was his greatest success, my mother. I will miss him dearly.

I loved Leo because he loved Linda. He enriched her life and made it more than it would have been. He obviously did the same for many others also. I know they all will miss him.

Linda and Leo had a wonderful, exciting, rich 30 years together. I was fortunate enough to take part at times. Not everyone is so lucky!