Paul Mark Thorpe

I wrote my very first composition for Paul while we were at Interlochen together in the mid/late 1980s. Disjunct Doodles for Paul and His Tuba was my Opus 1 and I am filled with deep sorrow learning of his passing as well as pride knowing his musical life was so rich and shared with others.

Paul was a beautiful soul and I know the angels are rejoicing having him closer to them.

Paul lit up a room when he entered it and we know he lit up the lives that he touched. It took only a few minutes for James and I to know how special he was and that only someone like Paul would be the right one for our Jim.
Paul, you will be missed by so many whose lives you crossed paths with. We hope your spirit of giving and friendship will live on in those you so enriched.

Paul and I sang with the Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus in San Jose, California a long time ago. I remembered his warm personality and great smile. I'm so sad to learn of his sudden passing away. My deepest condolences to his partner, Jim, and their families. Paul will be dearly missed by many.

As parents of a child Paul introduced to strings through the music program at Valley Springs in the too brief time he was there, we will say that his passing is a great loss. His gift with those kids was something truly remarkable and which we as parents valued greatly. Our daughter developed a love for music and what a good teacher was like which will bless her throughout her life. Our condolences to Paul's family and friends. He will be missed.

I'm so terribly sad about Paul's passing; too young, too soon. All you can say is, he was one of the great ones and his passion for music will live forever in so many people he taught (including me). My prayers and condolences to his partner, Jim, their families and everyone who basked in his light while he was with us.
Ashley Madden Wigglesworth

Paul was a wonderful person who I will truly miss. I'm grateful that Char and I were able to spend time with him and Jimmy before his passing. I will never forget his kindness and warmth.

I was shocked to hear of Paul's accident. He and I had many conversations about public education while we poured wine in the Biltmore tasting room. His smile and spirit lifted the world!

Paul inspired me.