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Chris Folk Obituary
Dr. Folk, 80, of Charlotte, died September 23, 2010, at his home. He was born April 6, 1930, in Charlotte, son of the late Chris Edwin Folk and Lula Evans Folk. Chris was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who was kind and compassionate and always greeted people with a warm smile. He loved his family very much - his wife, Mitzi, their four children and nine grandchildren. He created many family traditions that will be cherished by his family for generations to come. Chris enjoyed vacationing at the beach and mountains and treasured time with his grandchildren. He coached, played and watched sports, closely following the Duke Blue Devils and Boston Red Sox. He cared deeply about others, often delivering food to the homebound or caring for the elderly. Chris was extremely active at Covenant Presbyterian Church, where he was a charter member and Elder Emeritus, chaired and served on many committees and provided many years of faithful and loving service. His values and character were shaped early in life. Chris attended public schools in Statesville and Charlotte and graduated valedictorian in 1948 from Central High School in Charlotte. He graduated from Duke University in 1952 with BA degrees in English and Education and was elected to the Phi Beta Kappa national honorary scholastic organization. After receiving his Master of Education degree from the University of Texas in 1953, he served for two years in the United States Army.Chris had great passion for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, where he worked tirelessly as a teacher, principal and administer for 37 years. His former students, staff and educators were like a second family to him, and they remained in close contact. Eager to make a difference in the lives of young people, Chris began his career in 1955 as an English and journalism teacher at Central High School. In 1958, he moved into school administration and, four years later, earned a Doctor of Education degree from Columbia University Teachers College. He was a tremendous advocate for the school system and helped lead through the consolidation of city and county schools and school desegregation. From 1977 until his retirement in 1992, he served as associate superintendent with responsibility for school policies, school calendars, community relations and communications. Over his career, he worked closely with 10 superintendents and numerous school boards (he attended more than 1,200 school board meetings). Upon retirement, Chris was described in The Charlotte Observer as the 'gentlemanly father, meticulous expert and tireless conscience' of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School system. Among his numerous professional awards and recognition: the Charlotte Public Relations Society's Infinity Award, Phi Delta Kappa's Continuous Outstanding Service to Education Award and honorary grand marshal in the Carolinas Carrousel Parade. Following retirement, Chris often spoke to the media and community groups about school history, particularly the tough days of school desegregation. He continued to volunteer in the schools until late in his life - tutoring students in Communities In Schools, reading at Highland Renaissance Academy, answering parent e-mails through the school system's website and serving as a judge in The Charlotte Observer Regional Spelling Bee (for over 40 years). He was active in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Retired School Personnel Association, Phi Delta Kappa, North Carolina Association of Educators, Right Moves for Youth, Friendship Trays, United Way, Arts and Science Council, Foundation for the Carolinas, Charlotte Duke Alumni Advisory Committee and other organizations.
Chris is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mitzi Plonk Folk; four children, Chris Evans Folk Jr. and wife Gina of Charlotte, Robert Glenn Folk of Charlotte, Thomas Mark Folk and wife Kim of Charlotte, and Margaret Ann Hunter and husband Luke of Hendersonville, NC; and nine grandchildren, Thomas Hayden Folk, Claire Olivia Folk, Connor Alexander Folk, McGuire Stevenson Hunter, Virginia Grace Folk, Woodson Marvin Hunter, Christopher Allen Folk, Chris Evans Folk III, and Ellison Motley Hunter. He also is survived by many cousins, including Dettie Piper of Greenville, S.C., Woody Woodham and wife Judy of Columbus, N.C., Nan Alexander and husband Glenn of Georgetown, S.C., Harry Evans and wife Pat of Pendleton, S.C., and Donald Moore of Charlotte.
The family extends grateful appreciation to Polly Durham and the wonderful neighbors who delivered regular meals for the last year. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, September 26, in the Fellowship Hall at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1000 East Morehead St. A memorial service will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 27, with the Rev. Robert W. Henderson officiating. Following the service, a reception will be held in the Fellowship Hall. A private interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1000 East Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28204; or to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Schools Foundation for the Chris Folk Leadership Fund, 600 East 4th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.
Harry & Bryant Funeral Home is serving the family.
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Memories and Condolences
for Chris Folk
George Grubbs
January 18, 2014
Dr. Folk, You were one of the best teachers and best persons in my life. Thank you for that and more.
May 4, 2011
Dr. Folk was a special man. He was so nice to me while I was a teacher in 1976 in the CMS schools. He is greatly missed by so many people. May God comfort you during your time of sorrow. Ruth Alford, Lumberton, NC
Sandra Cook
November 4, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
November 1, 2010
I'm sorry to hear about your lost. I remember Mr.Folk back in the third grade at Windsor Park.He always had something to say to everyone.He treated all of us kids like he was our daddy.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Rick Barber Mineral Va
November 1, 2010
I'm sorry to here about your lost in your family.Mr. Folk was a great principal back at Windsor Park.He always had nice things to say to everyone.He will be missed but not forgotten.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the whole family . Rick Barber Mineral Va
Janet McGrant
October 18, 2010
Our deepest sympathies for the passing of a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Assocation Educational Office Professionals (CMAEOP) Icon. Dr. Folk was a CMAEOP pioneer who will truly be missed.
October 15, 2010
Our deepest sympathies. I'm glad we got to meet you both at the party celebrating our wedding. Chris Delay & Ellen Hager
David Snepp
October 14, 2010
As a former education reporter with WBTV in the early 80s, Chris was not only one of the finest professionals, but one of the finest men I have ever known. He cared deeply about the students of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, the institution and its history. Always kind, even when antognized at times by pesky reporters, Chris was a true educator who devoted his life to Charlotte and its campuses. As was his trademark sign-off, I'd like to thank him for not only calling, but being such an outstanding part of the city's fabric for so long.
October 9, 2010
Mitzi and family, I had the privilege of working with Dr. Folk for 22 yrs. It was always such a plesure to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Christale Norwood
Buncy Kelley
October 9, 2010
My memories of Chris and Mitzi and their family are wonderful times spent at the beach in summers past.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers and I know you each and ALL have special memories of Chris and his special place in your lives.
most sincerely, Buncy
Elaine Nelson
October 4, 2010
On behalf of my family, I would like to express our sincerest sympathy at the passing of this kind, intelligent and thoughtful man. He was a dedicated professional and a "teacher" in every sense of the word. My late father, Charles B. Sigmon, and Mr. Folk were friends and colleagues for many years at CMS. Chris Folk was highly respected by everyone and we are very saddened to hear of his passing.
L. Ellis
October 4, 2010
Sincere condolences to the Folk family!
As you grieve your loved one, remember Jehovah God's promise to resurrect the dead to life again in Paradise.
Mat 6:10 Job 14:14, 15
Alesia Broome
October 3, 2010
My Deepest Sympathy goes out to the Folk Family. I was a student at AG with the son of Chris Folk (Chris). Mr. Folk was a great inspiration at this time in Charlotte's Education System.May God Bless and Keep the family of Mr. Folk. Alesia Broome and Family
Edward Mathis
October 2, 2010
Sincerest Condolences,
Sue Knight
September 29, 2010
My sympathy to Chris's family in the loss of the great man who loved his family best. Chris was my mentor when I became CMS Testing Director in 1988. He taught me so much. About gentleness and about how it's not about the test scores, it's about the people. Chris and I had a bet every year, based on whether or not there were any "snow days" with school cancelled. If there WERE snow days, I took Chris to lunch. If there weren't "snow days," he took me to lunch. I know that Chris and Tom Bradbury, who died last week, are having a great time re-hashing events in heaven, and then moving on to organize and comment on their new reality. Chris was just an all around great guy who will be missed AND who made his mark on so many who are still here. He will live on.
the former Sue Henry
September 28, 2010
Dr. Folk was always the voice of tranquility and reason in a sea of tumult and confusion that was Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. I absolutely adored him for his dedication and calm demeanor. I worked with him through Dial-A-Teacher, and I taught his two sons at AG, who both exemplified his love of learning. My sincere condolences to his family. He will be greatly missed.
Barbara Hall (Sills)
Ocean Isle Beach, NC
Brenda Collins
September 28, 2010
My mother, Rachel Byers and I have your family in our prayers. My father, Alexander Byers, was so fond of Dr. Folk. You have our deepest sympathy.
Brenda Byers Collins
September 27, 2010
Please accept sympathy from the Central High School Class of 1956. Dr. Folk was always so kind and gracious to attend our class reunions. He was an outstanding teacher to his students and continued to teach and inspire the entire community.
Sue Haney for the Central High Class of 1956
September 27, 2010
Lynn and John Moreau feel as though we have lost a family member. Chris was such an outstanding educator, mentor, and friend to so many people in the Charlotte area and to the Graduates of Central High School from the class of 1958.
He loved his family and loved sharing stories and accomplishments of his grandchildren.
May God grant you peace and understanding and comfort as you reflect on his life and celebrate his life.
John and Lynn Moreau
September 27, 2010
Mitzi: what a wonderful legacy Chris leaves: a tireless public servant, the consummate family man, an individual possessing incredibly strong integrity, & a constant reminder to all that each child amongst us is a child of God & deserving of a quality education. He will be missed, but hardly forgotten. Bob Henderson did a beautiful job today of capturing him. I was glad to be there amongst family & friends, & I was even more glad to have had the opportunity to serve alongside Chris. What a positive influence he was. And it is wonderful to have Bob following in his footsteps, not to mention your other children (& grandchildren!). Warm regards to you.
John Tate
September 27, 2010
Please accept my deep sympathyI am very sorry to read of your loss. It is so comforting to know that sickness and death is not all there is to life. Death is not the end of it all. (Psalm 37:29)
Susan Fenton
September 27, 2010
A great loss for the city of Charlotte... so much he gave! I send love and sympathy to Mitzi and her family.
Susan Wellons Fenton
Grace Ammons
September 27, 2010
How proud we are to call you family and how much we will miss this exceptional man. Mom asked me to convey their deepest regret that they couldn't be at the service as dad is dealing with some memory issues that make extensive travel more difficult these days. But our thoughts, prayers and love are with you.
Phyllis Sidebottom
September 27, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
September 26, 2010
Dear ones,
We stand with you in the grief of losing a beloved father, and in the joy of knowing our fathers lived a life that made a difference in the world. All of us Bilgers are grateful and honored to call him--and you--kin.
with love,
Mary Lou and Mike Pendergraft
September 26, 2010
In Central High's last year, I was privileged to be editor of The Rambler and made smarter, I believe, and more sensitive by the guidance of Chris Folk, our advisor and teacher. At graduation from high school and later college in 1963, I was often asked why as an English mnajor I didn't want to teach. The answer is simple: I couldn't be as good as Mr. Folk. But I did enjoy a wonderful career in journalism -- and I thank him for his encouragement in that persuit. God rest his soul.
Becky Boswell Smith, Greensboro, NC
Janice Deane
September 26, 2010
Dr. Folk was the kindest, most compassionate man I have ever met. He was a true friend to the teacher assistants of Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System when I was a member of the teacher assistant association, NCATA. He listened with a caring heart and helped us achieve the recognition that we deserved. Dr. Folk will be missed by so many people. I hope that you find comfort in the knowledge that he left such a wonderful legacy. May God bless you and comfort you.
Chris Evans
September 26, 2010
We were sad to hear the news of Chris's death. My father William was his first cousin, and my mother Mary Ellen always told me of how much she admired Chris. My name is also Chris Evans, from Anderson, SC, and I enjoyed knowing him. He was a very quiet and humble man, a quiet but strong leader in his life. He will be missed, and we send our condolences to his family.
Hugh Romine
September 26, 2010
It would fill tomorrow's Sunday paper to describe the impact that Dr. Folk and his entire family have had in my life. When everyone around me had given up, Dr. Folk opened his heart and his home to me and insisted, daily and sometimes hourly, that neither he nor I would be giving up as easily. The risks he took, and the sacrifices he and his family made on my behalf were nothing short of life-saving. Beneath his quiet manner was a strength of character and honesty of heart that most of us can only aspire to. Clearly he was highly respected in his professional endeavors. To me he was awesome, in every sense of the word. May he rest in peace and may his family take comfort in all the goodness he leaves behind. To the entire family, my condolences and ongoing appreciation.
Hugh Romine
Danny Sells
September 26, 2010
My sincere condolences to Mitzi and his family. Chris was a man of integrity and character ---- and quite honestly, my idol as person. I graduated from Central in 1957. Chris played a most important part of my high school years. He was the advisor to our school Key Club. We played a lot of golf together. Chris taught me much during my high school years and put me on track toward an education and a productive life. I am thankful that I spoke with him a few months ago and expressed my sincere appreciation for everything he did for me.
Danny Sells
Peter Relic
September 25, 2010
Chris was a scholar, brilliant educator, devoted member of the community, and a dear friend. I admired, respected, and loved him...and did he ever make me laugh at the right times. My sympathy to you, Mitzi. Peter Relic
September 25, 2010
I was saddened by the news of Dr. Folks' death. He was a splendid man, of great intellect and big heart. It was my privilege to know and work with him when I coordinated the CMS Indian Education Program. He was an honored, respected, and revered member of our profession. He never refused to take on a hard job if it needed to be done. What he preached about civil liberties, he practiced. He fought hard for every cause in which he enlisted, and the causes for which he fought were good and right. I will not forget the courage of his faith, the warm and glowing brightness of his friendship and the kindness in his speech. My prayers are with Mitzi and the family. Rosa Revels Winfree
September 25, 2010
My love and thoughts are with all of you, Betty Barnhart
Joyce Tadlock Hahnenkratt
September 25, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Folk's death. He was a very special person. I was a student of his in his early teaching days (CHS in the 60s) but thought of him often as I became a teacher in both the CMS and the Alhambra schools in Phoenix. Being able to get in touch with him recently was a very special part of my life...just to let him know what an influence he was to me in my career choice. Thoughts and prayers to all in his family.
September 25, 2010
Chris Folk was one of the kindest, most caring and gentle persons I have ever known. I was teaching at Windsor Park Elementary when he came my second year to be our principal. They "broke the mold" when they made him. He and Mitzi are special friends, and I am honored to have been on his school staff that year. The family and Mitzi are in my prayers. We have all lost a wonderful person, but heaven has gained a most special angel. Lynda McGinty Lake Wylie, SC
Romayne St.John
September 25, 2010
Very few words can describe Dr. Folk and who he became for many of us that worked for/with him. We viewed the many sides of this great man and though his frustrations must have been many, his humor kept him strong and always moving in the right direction. He was a great leader and is already missed. Love to the family.
September 25, 2010
So sorry o hear of his passing, but am sure you feel, as I did, that we are glad they are no longer suffering and in pain. My best to all of you at this time.Margaret Scott
September 25, 2010
Dear Mitzi, I'm so sorry to hear about Chris's death. I'll be in touch again later, but just want to extend my sympathy to you and the family and to let you know I'm thinking about you.
Sarah-Ann Smith (Spartanburg SC)
Elizabeth and Carter Mills
September 25, 2010
Dr. Folk's was an exemplary life of dedicated service, so very inspiring. His family is in our hearts and on our minds.
September 25, 2010
Mitzi and family
Chris was a friend and a wonderfal man.I knew him since 1961 and I know no better man. We are in Chattanooga and unable to attend the funeral but know our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Alex and Sonia
Martina Hickey-Laing
September 25, 2010
As a former Fulbright exchange student from Scotland supported by Dr. Folk in the communications department in 1990, I, my husband Dave and our girls will always carry fond memories of the very gifted Dr. Folk. He represents a standard which I try to work towards in every day of my professional and personal being. My condolences to all his wonderful family.
The Hollandsworth Family
September 24, 2010
Mark, Kim, Thomas, Connor and Christopher, Our hearts go out to you and your family during this most trying time. It was always great seeing your Dad come to all the baseball games with your Mom and help to cheer us on. Your father will truly be missed by all.
George Rembert
September 24, 2010
I was one of those fortunate students at Charlotte Central High to know Chris Folk early in his career
as a teacher and, more importantly to me, an advisor to the staff of the school newspaper, The Rambler, of
which I was editor in 1958. It was the final year of public school segregation in Charlotte and Chris allowed the school paper to take the very unpopular stance that the first black student to be enrolled the following year was a move that was not only inevitable but morally correct. As others have noted, he never wavered
in his support and guidance during the following difficult years when his calm leadership at the head of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System prevented the types of public display that inflicted so many parts of the Country.
But more importantly to me he was a friend with whom I played many games of ping pong. He even took a few of us to New York City for our first introduction to the big city and and the new thrill of attending Broadway shows. He was always himself - warm and unpretentious - and he never changed, always giving to the
community throughout his long and successful life.
It is truly the passing of an era.
Betty Graham
September 24, 2010
When I began teaching in 1963 Chris was my first principal. What an inspiration he was then and throughout my career in CMS. I am proud to have known and been influenced by such a giant. Mitzi and family my condolences during this time. My hope is for each of you to find strength in all the memories you share.
Elizabeth Williams- Smith
September 24, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Beth Bass Vogt
September 24, 2010
Chris was the ultimate gentleman and scholar. He was always available as a mentor, supporter, and friend. He always had a hug and a smile to share. He will be missed by all who knew him. My heart breaks to think of the loss that CMS, the Charlotte community, his family, and friends feel at this time. Our consolation is that he lives in the legacy of integrity, honor, and love that he leaves.
September 24, 2010
Mr. Folk was my principal at Windsor Park Elementary in 1964-65. He was a wonderful man and he knew all the students and he was our friend. He made a difference in my life.
Mike Griffin
September 24, 2010
Mr. Folk was my principal at Windsor Park Elementary in 1964-65. He was a wonderful man and he knew all the students and he was our friend. He made a difference in my life.
Sandra Hussey
September 24, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Ann Helms
September 24, 2010
I believe I had been covering CMS for about five minutes when a more experienced reporter told me: All historical questions go to Chris Folk. Sure enough, he always answered my questions cheerfully and accurately. This, mind you, years after he had "retired."
It was a pleasure to spend time with Chris and Mitzi and write a profile this spring. Everyone I talked to during and after the reporting of that story sang Chris's praise -- even reporters, who are notoriously reluctant to gush.
He was a fine man in a very tough business, and somehow he never let it grind him down. My condolences to the family.
Ann Doss Helms
September 24, 2010
My deepest sympathies, all my love, thoughts and special prayers go out to Mitzi and the family. What a wonderful man! Dr. Chris Folk will be sorely missed in CMS and the community. A true legend and always a gentleman, Chris was truly loved by all who knew him. What a better place Heaven will be with this wonderful addition.
Much love,
Lisa Miller-Stickley
William Brown
September 24, 2010
Chris Folk was an educational statesman who did all the right things to directly influence the education of children. He loved his school system and gave 110% daily. His integrity brought immediate respect. God bless the family and friends of Dr. Chris Folk. Dr. William L. Brown, Sr. Retired Superintendent, Albemarle City Schools
Linda Long
September 24, 2010
Dr. Folk was always so supportive of CMAEOP our Educational Office Professional Association and never missed an opportunity to say "thank you" for all you do for our chilren. He and Mitzi were always welcome guests at our Administrator's Night and he was made an honorary member of our organization.
I had the pleasure of working with his son Bob in the Cities in Schools Program and want to extend my condolences to Bob, Mitzi and the entire family. A great man has left us to enter the gates of Heaven and our loss is Heaven's gain! God Bless!
Linda Giles Long CEOE (Retired CMS)
I
M. Holmes
September 24, 2010
With deepest sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless
Lauren Susi
September 24, 2010
I had the privilege of getting to know Dr. Folk and the wonderful Folk family when his daughter and I were roommates at ASU. I could always see so plainly the love he had for his family and the kindness he extended to me. I am so sorry for your loss but what a blessing to have known him.
September 24, 2010
My condolences to the Folk family.
I had only a few opportuniteis to meet Mr. Folk while working @ Wesley w/ his son Bob.
Sincerely,
Hal Brown
Independence High School
Connie Knight
September 24, 2010
Chris Folk was the epitome of what a good public relations professional should be. Thoughtful, calm, reasonable, with a strong gift for communicating highly nuanced messages. I met him early in my PR career which began in Charlotte in 1976. He has officially and unofficially mentored MANY, MANY of us and we still put into practice daily what he so generously shared with all of us who were so lucky to call him "friend."
May God bless and comfort your family.
Mona McCullough
September 24, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. What a wonderful man.
Brad Schulz
September 24, 2010
As a reporter for nearly 20 years in Charlotte, I learned that Chris Folk was a rare breed. He was always approachable on the most controversial of subjects - clear, cool headed and at times looking at his work with a laugh and a smile. He never let any of us rattle him and for that we came to respect him for what he worked to do - provide transparent information about the schools, education and how they were trying to teach thousands of students to be better citizens. My thanks to Chris and my condolences to his family.
Ken Sanford
September 24, 2010
I was privileged to have Chris as a colleague in educational public relations. He was knowledgable and able to share his insights with the community at a critical time in our history. We celebrate his life, but we shall miss a man who stood tall in education.
September 24, 2010
Chris Folk---THE CONSUMATE GENTLEMAN! His behind-the-scenes contributions are many!
A life well-lived!
J. Edward Crutchfield Jr
Cindy and Miller Nicholson
September 24, 2010
Dr. Folk was also a devoted grandfather. For years, we watched him on baseball sidelines keeping stats for Thomas' games when my son played on the same team. In the winter, he kept stats for the boys at the Covenant basketball games. I don't recall that he missed a game. He and Mitzi faithfully attended all piano recitals and school events. He was a gift to Charlotte professionally and truly a gift to his family in his private life. As his neighbor, we will miss him dearly.
dave
September 24, 2010
great man
September 24, 2010
I am a lucky person because I got to know Chris when I was a student in the School System and then I got to work with him briefly as a Mecklenburg County Commissioner.
He was a wonderful and endearing person. I watched his kids grow and saw his wife at many events and got to know them. They and the community will miss him.
It was an honor to know him as a leader and a friend.
Lloyd Scher
County Commissioner
Elizabeth Gronager
September 24, 2010
Mr. Folk was the perfect gentleman. My interactions with him during visits to the Education Center as a school cafeteria manager impressed me like no else there. God rest your soul.
Jimmy Schacht
September 24, 2010
Mark, Kim, and the rest of the Folk family, I am so sorry for your loss. I was very saddened to hear of Chris' passing. He was a great man and I always enjoyed speaking with him at the baseball games. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Becky Kirkland
September 24, 2010
Mitzi,
I just learned from Betty that Chris had passed away. I wish that we were closer to NC, to be with the family. I want you to know that our thoughts and love are with you.
Becky and Bob
Al Vaughn
September 24, 2010
When I first moved to Charlotte I always knew that when Chris Folk spoke, he was speaking from the heart and with honesty, He was a stablizing person during some rough times in Charlotte.Later in life I was fortunate to have meet him many times at Sharon Golf Course. He was the same their as he was in public, a real schlor and most important a Gentlemen. He will truly be missed .
Catherine and Stan Bracey
September 24, 2010
Dear Folk Family -
What a faithful and loving life we have witnessed in Chris’ life among us! He was devoted to each of you. He was the calming voice within CMS in our community's most turbulent times. He led through example and service at Covenant. Our prayers are with each of you in the coming days.
With deep sympathy,
Michael Lockwood
September 24, 2010
Dr Folk was the Principle at Windsor Park Elmentary in 1963 when President Kennedy was killed. I still remember him walking into the 3rd grade class room and calling Miss McGinity out to tell her. He was always such a gentleman and cared for people so deeply.
September 24, 2010
Dear Mitzi,
I am so saddened that Chris' life with you and the children is over, but I know he is with the Lord for eternity.
It was always such a pleasure to reunite with you both at dinner when Jean was here from Hawaii. I had known Chris was very ill and that death would come, but it is still a great sorrow to all who knew him when it happens.
I am sorry that I am very sick myself now and am not able to leave my apartment except for medical reasons. Please know my prayers are with you and your family during the coming weeks.
With love,
Ann Mudge
September 24, 2010
RIP, Chris Folk. You personified the intelligence, personal grace and dedication to Charlotte that has too much slipped away from us.
John Crowell
September 24, 2010
Even though small in stature, Chris Folk was a giant amongst us all. He defined integrity, respect, and quiet dignity and our community is richer for his having walked our way. What a sad week for CMS history this week has been. Bill Self and Chris Folk were positive examples for our entire community during difficult times. May our future leaders walk in the path they placed before us.
Nora Carr
September 24, 2010
When I moved to Charlotte in 1999 to assume the role of CMS spokesperson, everyone I met told me to talk to Chris Folk. The smartest thing I ever did was follow that advice, and Chris became an unofficial mentor to me. The second smartest thing I did was hire Chris to answer all the CMS emails parents and community members sent to our feedback@ account - he was so patient, gentle and thoughtful - a brilliant man who left an indelible mark on CMS, Charlotte and generations of children. He was a gem; he will be missed. His legacy carries on through his wife and family, many friends and colleagues. Thank you, Chris, for making this Midwesterner feel at home and welcome in Charlotte and CMS.
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