Robert W. Canzoneri

40 years ago Bob was one of my favorite professors. He was interesting and interested and his fiction writing classes were fun to be in. I wish I had gotten to know him better, but I did run into him occasionally over the years in Westerville and even at one of his and Candy's Greenhead events. I enjoyed his book Potboiler and a piece he wrote in the Smithsonian magazine about awkwardly meeting a famous person.

As one of Professor Canzoneri's students, I was flattered by his support of my work. When Peter Taylor and John Ciardi came to Ohio State, at different times, he made a point to introduce me to both writers. I had a long talk in private with Mr. Taylor, who happened to be one of my favorite short story writers, and his encouragement played a large part in my decision to continue my writing endeavors. Rest in peace, Professor Canzoneri.

I didn't know Bob...about the only things we have in common are...I have my degrees from OSU and I was a college professor for 34 years. However! Bob, your novel: Men With Little Hammers, remains one of my all time favorite books, which, to this day, sits on my bookshelf, many years after my own retirement from teaching. Rest in peace, Bob.

Candy, I don't know you, and I didn't know Bob, and I don't know if you even will check this page so many years after Bob's death, but his "Potboiler" is one of my favourite books of all time. I reread it every summer and every year, it means something different to me, as I get older and understand life more clearly. I wish so much that I had got in touch with him and with you when he was alive, to thank him. But at least I can thank you.

I chanced to meet Robert Canzoneri about 40 years ago when he was teaching a course at Louisiana College entitled "Advanced Composition". I had no idea when I signed up for this class that it would change not only the way I write, but the way I think and the way I live.

My favorite professor at OSU. He encouraged a love of writing that continues to this day. Jay Osborne Columbus

In his eyes, there was depth,
In his word, there was wisdom,
In his heart, there was joy,
Bob & Candy, thank you for existing! :-)
From your Memphis Side >

Candy, Bob will always be a legend in my own heart which I have passed on to Ali as well as copies of his books that I had. Hardly a week goes by that I don't tell someone a story about all the good times, conversation and adventures we shared. Much love, Becky Canzoneri