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Joseph C. Crupi

Joseph Crupi Obituary

Crupi, Joseph C.
Bradenton, FL/Horseheads, NY: 80, died May 20th. He is survived by wife Patricia; son Mark (Deborah); daughter JoAnn (Elissa Gielen); grandchildren Melani, Susanne, Alex and 3 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Rochester Democrat And Chronicle on May 24, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Crupi

62 Entries

Jean & Trafford Doherty

June 18, 2024

I sang in the chorus from 1964-66 in high school - but thanks to Joe Crupi, I met my future wife! After college, Joe happened to meet me in the grocery store. He needed a baritone soloist for an upcoming opera concert, and enlisted me on the spot. My future wife was also a soloist for the same concert and the rest is history. Joe was a great choral director - in high school and beyond - and a great person. We will never forget him.

Patty Campbell Dontje

February 11, 2010

Well, leave it to me to be one of the last persons to sign this guestbook. My thanks to the anonymous person for keeping this Web site active long enough to allow absurdly late folks like me the opportunity to express my deepest sympathy to the family and my sincerest admiration for Mr. Joseph C. Crupi. My older sisters, who graduated from Horseheads in 1966 & 1968, sang in his choirs. Even back then, Mr. Crupi made recordings of his groups. I’d spend countless hours in my bedroom singing with those records and trying to imitate the tone, texture and finesse that Mr. Crupi weaved into every song. (I also recall my sisters yelling at me to please shut up. It was a small house after all and I was only 10 years old at the time.) But my goal was to one day become good enough to sing with Mr. Crupi’s Chamber Singers. Fortunately, practice and perseverance paid off and I was invited to join the Chamber Singers in 1973 as a sophomore. We went to Europe that year (Vienna, Budapest and Prague) to participate in The Festival of Three Cities. I had never been on an airplane before so that was some trip! I graduated in 1975 having spent three glorious years with Mr. Crupi and his Chamber Singers. The musical appreciation and training I received from Mr. Crupi has remained with me to this day. I will never forget the friends I’ve made and the wonderful musical experiences I had in those three short years. Today, I have the albums from my years with the Chamber Singers and can revive those glorious memories. JoJo, I hope one day soon we will have that Chamber Singers reunion and get the chance to express our sympathies and admiration to you and Mrs. C in person. It also will be interesting to see how much we’ve all changed after 35+ years! Warmest regards, Patty Campbell Dontje

Seamus Jones-Lantzy

July 20, 2009

I wanted to take a moment share our deepest sympathies but to also thank you all for your influence and Joe's exuberant inspiration throughout the years. There is not a day that your positive influence is not felt in Orla’s and my life.

Growing up I consider myself extremely lucky to know you all, including Joe. He ensured that I have and do appreciate the who'sywhatsits of life. He taught me so much more than music. His ability to enjoy life, family and time with friends is something which the Jones-Lantzy’s benefited greatly. Some of my favorite memories from Chautauqua are sharing time and laughter with Joe and each of you. Even your dog…so much so that I even now have a Sheltie of my own.

Where there is good music, great food and friends gathered I know that Joe is present.

Seamus & Orla Jones-Lantzy

Justin Jones-Lantzy

July 14, 2009

Dear Pat, JoJo, and your family,

First of all thank you for your friendship, guidance and fun from me and my entire family. I was honored to be able to meet you and Joe on my very first day of my summer job at the Chautauqua Amphitheater crew. I was completely overwhelmed, excited and scared at 14, to be working in such a place, and I was lucky enough to meet Pat and Joe upstairs after choir practice and they quickly became friends of me, my little brother Seamus, and my mother and father, Jeannie and Phil.

Joe was always kind and great mentor and quick to laugh! Some of my best memories are visiting with your family, or meeting up at the Amp to watch the shows from the balcony seating with your family and ours.

Thanks, seems not adequate to describe the effect that you and your family had on all my family, as you were and are great friends some 20+ years later. You will be missed, but I am sure the heaven's choir has a great leader in Joe.

Justin Jones-Lantzy, and entire family

Elizabeth Haley

June 24, 2009

I was lucky. Mr. C. was "just the Music Minister at my church". The international presence he had created, the influence he had on high school students, the entertainment he had created for an entire community--was unknown for me. I sang with him on Wednesday nights, that was all. He was just a very friendly, albeit talented member of "my church". How funny that is isn't until after you leave an area that you realize the impact others have made. I still have pictures of Chuck Mangione when he sang with our choir, memories of traveling with Chamber Singers and always yearning to hear "The Lord's Prayer" arrangement that he penned for "my church". It remains the only version of The Lord's Prayer that I know. As a youth, I was certain it was the only version and that this was how all other churches and choirs sang it. In a way I was right, in my mind and heart it is the only way I hear it sung. My realization of Mr. C's contributions to my life, church and community are much more developed now. But I wish I had realized earlier the greatness of one man was simply wrapped up in the humbleness of the same man. What a wonderful opportunity to have crossed paths and read music around that old grand piano in the choir room of First United Methodist of Horseheads.

Monica Russ

June 23, 2009

My sincere condolences to Mrs. Crupi, Mark and Jojo. You must have those memories of him that are so vivid and real, you have the sensation in your body as if the moment is happening right now. Here is mine: I'm 7 or 8 years old, sitting cross-legged on the hard floor of my elementary school gymnasium, looking up at Mr. Crupi conducting the Chamber Singers, completely enthralled. Full of magic and wonder. Knowing from that moment that I want to be part of that someday, and to create that same feeling in others. I feel incredibly lucky and so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from him and to be part of this larger community he inspired. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jack Coapman

June 17, 2009

It was fate that I opened a newspaper in Rochester, NY while visiting my Mom and learned of Mr. Crupi passing away. Like many have written, I have a hard time singing in choirs (yes, still singing thanks to Joe) without thinking of his teachings. I have a daughter that is doing her student teaching next Fall to be a music teacher and I frequently share stories of my time in Chamber Singers. My thoughts and prayers go to the entire Crupi familiy.

JoAnn Crupi

June 17, 2009

Hi everyone this is JoJo Crupi and I have been reading all of these e-mails. You have said such wonderful words about my father. It really is great to read all of them. I did have a great dad and it was so cool that he gave you all so much joy. I now teach music but to Primary school kids and everyday something comes out of my mouth just like my dad would say. He even has composed music for my second grade choirs and then he would come up and play the piano on concert night. They thought he was Beethoven. I am so pleased that he touched so many of you. He would be so humbled to read all these great messages. Thanks. Look for a Chamber Singer reunion for the years 1952-1984. It may be happening next summer. Again, thanks, JoJo Crupi

Marie Roller

June 8, 2009

Dear Mrs. C & Family,

I am very sorry to hear of Mr. C's passing. He brought joy to all that he did and made you want to do your very best for him.

Kathy (Dunbar) Malpass

June 6, 2009

Dear Pat, JoJo, Mark and families,
What beautiful memories I have of singing with the Chamber Singers! We had such a great trip to Europe in 1973, and to Boston in 1974. Singing with Chuck was an experience I will never forget. I will always treasure the friendships I made as a member of the Chamber Singers. I am so glad we were able to find many former singers for the reunion years ago.

I feel fortunate to have learned so much from such a wonderful teacher and director. Mr. Crupi fostered my love of music which has now been given to my very musical daughters, ages 7 and 12!

We now know "How long you gonna stay here, Joe. You gotta go, I know." You will be missed greatly, but what a great life he shared with all of us!

Annette Ungvarsky-Murray

June 3, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers go to your family for your loss. I also sang with Mr. Crupi in the 1970's and one memory clings to me. When we were acting like we were bigger that our britches, he would remind us that we were "big fish in a little pond only to become little fish in a big pond" when we left high school. Somehow I believe when he left this earth, he was still the "big fish"! Such a gentleman cannot be replaced.

zada and Bill Riordan

June 3, 2009

We knew and appreciated Joe's many musical talents..He was truly gifted ..but we'll miss Joe ,the wonderful person he was, even more ...He would brighten up the room just by coming in and saying hello.and smiling at us...He would very gently correct us by offering suggestions that might work better than what we were trying....So long Joe....Zada and Bill riordan......

Ann Rogers

June 2, 2009

My first contact with Joe was when he led about 10 of us in the UU Review, a hilarious series of songs about life in a Unitarian Universalist Church. His ease at the piano and the joy he brought to his work was contageous and our amateur performance "brought down the house". A few years later, he was hired to accompany our choir at the same Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Bradenton, Florida. I feel indeed privileged to have had the chance to work with him for the past 5 years, ending only this April. We also appreciate the contributions of his wonderful wife, Pat, and send our sincerest condolances to her and his family.
Ann Rogers, choir director, Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

June 1, 2009

I remember the first time I was in the presence of Mr. C's overwhleming musical talent - I was a freshman at Jr. High West. He was at the school "auditioning" students for choirs in the high school. I was so mesmerized by how many different types of genres Mr. C could play this simple song on the piano that when it was my turn to stand there with shaking knees to sing that I forgot the words to My Country Tis of Thee! From jazz to classical - it simply astounded me. My fondest memories of high school center around the musical program with Mr. C and Mr. Rae and all the many friends made and events that happened because of Mr. C's talent and desire to teach music. Chamber Singers was my first experience with a unique kind of team work. Mr. C's foresight was way beyond his time. He touched so many lives with such warmth. I can still sing O Come all Ye Faithful in Latin .... because of Mr. C. My deepest condolences to Mrs. C and his children and the rest of the family. Heaven's Choirs now have a truly gifted director to lead them! He was loved and will be missed by many. Kelly (Kilburn) Cardi, Class of '78

Kevin Bruns

June 1, 2009

To the friends and family,

I have posted several other pictures from 1975 at the web site below.

http://brunsgallery.smugmug.com/Friends

Diane (Knispel) Gibbons

May 31, 2009

My deepest sympathy to Mrs. C, Joanne and Mark. Like so many here, Mr. Crupi touched my life in a profound way. No other High School experience had such an impact on what I would become- from him I learned to push for excellence, to love music, and how to let go and become part of something bigger than myself. I treasure those concerts, the travel, but most of all, the rehearsals. It was in the rehearsing that we all learned how to work and persist and lay the groundwork for those magical times when we got on stage and the music flowed. He was a teacher and mentor who has affected so many lives. I am grateful.

Will and Lois Ruliffson

May 31, 2009

We remember Joe, not just for his musical genius, but also for his great warmth and humanity. We loved the stories he shared with our MUUF choir about his many extraordinary musical experiences, and we loved the man for his patience and support. He will always have a very special place in our hearts.

Immediatetly before we went on stage in St. Louis in 1975

Kevin Bruns

May 31, 2009

To Mrs. Crupi, JoJo and Mark, all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Mr. Crupi touched many lives and in many ways, beyond the musical experience. My singing career ended not long after my Chamber SIngers days, but the lessons I learned from Mr. Crupi about discipline, respect and hard work I still carry with me. When I get together with former Singers, we marvel at the indelible impression he made on us. He was bigger than life.

How so very lucky we were to have crossed paths with him.

Andrew Bruns

May 30, 2009

I was quite saddened to hear of Joe Crupi's passing. I had lost touch with Mr. and Mrs. C many years ago. I was a member of the Chamber Singers from '72-'74, which included the trip to Europe. What an experience for a 17 year old from Big Flats, NY. I count my tenure with the Chamber Singers as one of my life's most memorable and enriching experiences...and one that shaped my thinking and being over the years to come. I sang, I guess well enough to get into the select choir, but I can't say that I was a "muscian". But that did not matter to Mr. C. We came to learn that we all had something to contribute to the success of the choir...and how he shaped the pieces into a single voice was one of his many talents. It was later in life that I recognized how that experience with Mr. C and his lessons in life had impacted me as I became an adult and a parent. Mr. C's passion and unbending standards which often led to hours and hours of practice to "get it right" and his admonitions to always do your best no matter how exhausted you might be stayed with me all these years. My love for music, which was largely a result of my time with Mr. C, spilled over to my children who learned to love and appreciate all kinds of music and excelled as vocalists, beyond my imagination. I bet Mr. C would never have thought when he was back in the music room of HHSH that he would someday touch the hearts and souls of so many of the children (and grand children) of the teenagers standing before him. I thank you. My children thank you. My sincere condolences to Mrs C, JoAnn and the rest of the family.

Jeanne Brossart

May 29, 2009

Joe was such a blessing to us in the choir of the Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship! His marvelous sense of humor expressed often in a spontaneous burst of music brought smiles and laughter to our rehearsals. I was awed by his ability to improvise. He did more than accompany our choir--he drew from his vast musical knowledge to guide us toward better performances. With Pat at his side turning the pages, we knew we were in the best musical hands there could be. My sincere condolences to Pat, Joann and their families.

May 28, 2009

To The Family of Joe and Pat Crupi. As a member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Bradenton, Florida, we were honored to have had Joe as our accompanist with Pat as HIS personal accompanist, as he guided us with skills he had developed as a lifetime musician. Joe and Pat were more like family members as Joe offered his expertise as he continued to struggle with his own health issues. With Pat by his side to assist with his turning of pages, they rarely missed a rehearsal. I will miss Joe more than my words describe.

Always in my memories,

Leslie Roell Weber

Gail (Plummer) Abbey

May 28, 2009

It is so difficult to express in words what Mr. Crupi meant to me. I have used the lessons he taught me every day of an almost 30 year career in music. I know that he will continue to be with me in my teaching, directing and performing for as long as I continue; and his lessons will also live on in our students and colleagues, who have learned them from our example. But the most important gift that Mr. Crupi gave to me is an overwhelming addiction to choral music. That indescribable experience of being part of an ensemble that is so much more than the sum of its parts. Whether he was directing the Lotti, Crucifixus, Mangione’s Hill Where the Lord Hides, or the whole range of repertoire in between, the affect was always moving, transformative, … indescribable.

Marie Bliss

May 28, 2009

Mr. Crupi was an inspiration to many young musicians like myself. As a young girl in HHDS Junior High, I had many occasions to watch Joe Crupi conduct choirs and play piano. He even let me accompany and sing with one his small choral ensembles in late afternoon rehearsal. He along with Gary Chollet, Mrs. Bowlby and Mr. Ray were wonderful mentors for all the budding musicians back then. My deepest sympathies for such a great loss to our music community. Marie Bliss Ungvarsky

Barb (Hendricks)Bittler

May 27, 2009

Pat, JoJo, Mark, and families,
My deepest sympathies to you all. Mr. C was a great influence in my life during my high school years. I was fortunate to sing in the Chamber Singers in 1973. Although we were far from the talented groups he had had in the past, Mr. C taught us what hard work and determination could do. By working together and believing in ourselves, we were the only choir to receive a standing ovation in Vienna, Austria. The lessons he taught in the choir room carried over into everyday life. I will be forever grateful for having the opportunity to know him. He was such a blessing to so many. The chorus of angels will be swinging with a little jazz beat. Godspeed, Mr. C

Karyn (Said) Sochacki

May 27, 2009

My deepest sympathies to Mrs. Crupi, Mark and his family, and JoAnn and her family.
I have often thought about Mr. C. and I will be forever grateful for how he affected and changed my life.
I was in the Chamber Singers in 74-75. His excellence in music and life touched all of us and I do not believe that any of us will ever forgot it.
There is a special place for Mr. C now..."come with me to a place I know you'll love, where your eyes simply won't believe the beauty of what they see!...

Kip Said

May 27, 2009

To the Crupi family,

I am so sorry to read of Mr. Crupi's death.

I graduated from Horseheads High School in 1973, but unlike most of those who have shared their condolences here, I did NOT sing in any of Mr. Crupi's choirs - I was a band geek. However, I did take music theory classes from him and am a better musician because of that limited exposure to his techniques.

Back then, I was a pretty decent organist (those days are long gone) who had a difficult time finding decent instruments to practice on. Mr. Crupi magnanimously made the beautiful pipe organ at the First Methodist Church available to me for practice any time the church wasn't being used.

When I applied to colleges to be an organ performance major, when it became known that I had attended Horseheads High School and was looking to study music, the question was inevitable: Do you know Joe Crupi? Of course I did! - Who at Horseheads High School didn't know him? There was a sense of skepticism about my musical abilities though, when I told them I was in the band and not one of his choirs.

Although not in the ensemble, I remember the incredible sense of pride and excitement in the entire school about the European trip the Chamber Singers took during that era.

We were so lucky to have had such great music instruction available to us in a public school, not only compared to what is offered in many schools now, but even back then! From all the elementary and junior high schools that "fed" students into Horseheads High, there was a desire to be in the HHS Choir, Band or Orchestra. I believe that district-wide focus on the value of the musical arts originated with the leadership of our beloved Mr. Crupi. We were so lucky to have had him on our faculty - even if we weren't in his choirs.

I offer my deepest condolences to the Crupi family. As others have already stated, we can be certain he has joined the chorus of angels now.

Kip Said
Horseheads High School, Class of 1973

Kammy Gervais

May 27, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with the Crupi family over the loss of Joe. I was in the Chamber Singers during my high school years (class of 1979) and have so many fond memories of him and our Chamber Singers events, especially singing with Chuck Mangione and his quartet and making a few albums. We were so blessed to have had the opportunity to do such a wonderful collaboration. He was such a talented, fun loving man who was respected and loved by so many. I'm sure the Angels above are singing with him! Again, I'm so sorry for your loss. Kammy Kilburn Gervais

Gary Turner

May 27, 2009

Mrs. Crupi, JoJo, Mark & families;

I know there is nothing that can fill the void you are all feeling. But, I hope you all are able to find some comfort in knowing just how significant an impact "Mr. C" made on thousands of lives.
There are many who share your loss. We all grieve, not just for the loss of a friend, but for someone who made a huge difference in our lives. I know I am not alone when I say we carry some of Mr. Crupi's lessons throughout life. “Mr. C” taught us at an early age how important it is to strive for perfection. He taught us how hard work and an unwillingness to settle for less in whatever we pursue, is the only way. Joe Crupi had the talent and determination to succeed in any direction he cared to go. He chose the path of teacher. And, as a result of that selfless choice, he lives on in generations of his admiring students.
Eighty years is not nearly enough and a world without Joe Crupi certainly seems like a less musical place. But we all share a million memories where our pitch is perfect, and our tone, blend and focus join us all as one in wondrous harmony. Thankyou.

steve cembrinski

May 27, 2009

Pat (Mrs. C) and family --

It wasn't until later in life that I began to fully appreciate the opportunity I had in highschool. That of being able to participate in Mr. C's grand scheme of things. The lessons I learned, the opportunities I was provided, the fun that was had. What a wonderful, wonderful time it was. Mr. C. was a perfectionist, but who could argue with the results. And then to have him play and sing at our wedding. And then, many years later, to be able to surprise my wife by ringing your doorbell and end up spending the afternoon with the two of you. Awesome.

Thank you Mr. C. -- for all you did to provide me with an unforgetable experience -- one that is truly key in my life, and will never be forgotten.

And thank you Mrs. C -- for being the strong one behind the scene -- and I really miss JoJo and Mark.

I still play the records we made very frequently -- timeless music

Stephen Beckwith

May 27, 2009

My condolences go out to the Crupi family on the loss of a great man. I was not musically gifted but I remember him as being very warm and friendly to everyone. Sometimes when my friends were in Music Class, I used to stand outside and listen. The Chambers Singers were really good and I remember Chuck Mangione singing with them. He touched a lot of lives and students and will greatly be missed. He now will be leading a choir of angels.

Cecile Savercool Carpenter

May 27, 2009

I was a member of the Senior Choir (1971-72) and Concert Chorale (1972-73) in my years at Horseheads High (Class of '73) and Mr C was a great influence on my life. After high school I would compare other choir directors (sometimes to their face) to Mr C. He was also an influence on my early years. He and my father were in the same class at Fredonia, and he and Mrs C were friends with my parents. And later my mother sang in the choir at St Matthew's church under his direction. All of this influence has caused music to be a very important part of my life. When I first read the notice of his passing I was as grief struck as I was when my mother passed. I just wish I had had a chance to see him one more time to thank him.

I am singing in a choral concert on Friday, May 29th (my birthday as it happens) and I will dedicate my performance to Mr C.

And Now the angel choir has a wonderful new director.

SUE EMPET COREY

May 27, 2009

MRS CRUPI I DON T KNOW IF YOU REMENBER ME SUE EMPET COREY? I BABY SET JOANN AND MARK MANY YEARS AGO AND WAS YOUR NEIBOR FOR MANY YEARS. I HAVE THOUGHT OF BOTH OF YOU WONDERING WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN AND WHAT YOU WERE DOING. A GROUP OF US GET TOGETHER ONCE A MONTH A THE OLIVE GARDEN AND WE TALK OF THE GREAT TIME WE HAD AND I ALWAYS BRING UP ALL THE GREAT MUSIC AND MUSICAL WE DID AND THEY WILL ALWAYS STAND OUT IN MY MIND FOREVER. WITH OUT MUSIC I WOULD ONLY HAVE HALF OF A LIFE. SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, BUT MR. CRUPI WILL BE DIRECTORING AND SINGING WITH THE ANGLES.

Tim Leikip

May 26, 2009

I sang with Joe at University of Wisconsin summer music camp in 1974, after graduating from high school. An excellent pianist, vocal coach, choral conductor, motivator, and mentor.

Enjoy your time with the heavenly chorus, Joe. Peace in Christ.

Jack Gardner

May 26, 2009

My life has been blessed to have known and performed with some great musicians and music educators and Joe Crupi will be forever in my mind. He knew far more than the musical scores with his quiet and directed guidance to urge the voices to perfection, with Pat at his side. Onward, Joe, to the great chorus in the sky. Our loss is their gain.

Mark Cranmer

May 26, 2009

Mr.C influenced so many peoples lives in so many different ways. When I went to college my advisor informed me that as a theatre major I would not be able to sing in any of the schools vocal programs because I would not have the time. While walking through registration I met Larry Lapin and advised him that I had been singing his jazz vocal warm ups out of Downbeat Magazine. I told him I was from Horseheads and his response was,"Oh! You're one of Joe's kids!". The next day I had an audition even though the audition process was complete. I sang with Larry all 4 years at Miami. Even in Miami the name Joe Crupi meant something!
Thanks to Mr. C I have returned to Europe several times since our trips in the late 70's and whenever I make homemade ravioli I always think of the time he showed me how to make it when he, Pat and Joann had me over for dinner.
Thank you for your guidance and support, Thank you for all of the time and energy you put into your many roles and Thank you for your love of music. You have influenced and touched so many and I am honored to say I was "One of Joe's kids!"

May 26, 2009

Joe Crupi was a wonder to have known. He always wanted me to sing for him, but no, I had to be an actor, a wrestler, and a science nerd. Wish now I'd sung with him, back in 1960... Still, I figure he taught enough good singers, many much better than me. His concerts were always world class.

Daniel Conklin

May 26, 2009

I remember Mr. Crupi as a person who showed me how to accomplish something better than mediocre - even something great.
We had a chance reunion a few years ago at Busch Gardens, Florida which allowed me to introduce him to my wife.
We will remember him as part of our family.

John Walp

May 26, 2009

Mr. Crupi was an amazing improvisational pianist, completely mesmerizing to watch and listen to. As a kid, I was occasionally blessed with the sublime privilege of accompanying him on the drums, always enthralled with how he could reach out and communicate what he wanted me to do without saying a single word, just signaling with his playing. Heather and I were thrilled when Mr. Crupi played the organ and piano at our wedding in 1987. We treasure the recording and all of our memories of him. Our hearts go out to you Mrs. Crupi, Mark and JoAnn and your families.

Jann Clark Stayments

May 25, 2009

I was blessed to have Mr. Crupi as a choir director and also had the privilege to travel to Europe with him in the NYS youth choir in 1979, an experience I will always treasure. He was a very talented man,who touched so many lives. He will be greatly missed.

Rich Farr

May 25, 2009

When you imagine generosity of spirit, a clear picture forms of Mr. and Mrs.Crupi. They freely shared their home, their time and their talents with more people than anyone could ever know. Mr.Crupi taught me how to really listen to music and to perform well enough to sing in a Fredonia college choir that had only one non music major, me. I wouldn't have been there without the lessons learned in the music department that Mr. Crupi so ably guided. He boosted the confidence of so many people and taught lessons that are lifelong gifts. Our family has known the Crupis since the earliest days in Horseheads and our sadness is profound. Our gratitude goes out to the Crupis for the many ways that they touched lives musically and otherwise.
We have lost a great mentor and friend.

Caroline Shelton

May 25, 2009

I am deeply sorry for the loss of a great music teacher that I had in 1953-1955. I bought his first piano from him in 1965 for two of our children who still play the piano. When we went to Panama in 1979, I gave Mr. Crupi's piano to a church in Newport, Rhode Island after our children had used it for many years. Pat, our daughter practiced on his piano while growing up and played for the Jr High and High School while in Germany and was awarded a beautiful medal for her piano playing. I met you in Germany and took you and Mr. Crupi out to lunch in Heidelberg as you may remember.
Again, please accept my sincere condolences.
Caroline (Smith) Shelton

Joanne Grist-Fisher

May 25, 2009

I am deeply saddened to read that Mr. Crupi has passed away. He was truly a most remarkable person. I have recently read all the comments about him in Classmates.com. It brought back so many wonderful memories. Most of the writers were from classes in the 70's. I didn't see any from as far back as I go - 1957. I had just read of his phone # and truly meant to call him to tell him how much he meant to me. (Don't put things like that off or you may be too late like I was.) He is fondly remembered, and I am so grateful for all he taught us. Goodbye, old friend.

Cindy Williams-Slaasted

May 25, 2009

The world has lost such a brilliant talented man. My deepest condolences to the whole Crupi family. So many of us loved him. He gave all his students and friends so much of himself, sharing both his artistic expertise and passion for life. I'm incredibly thankful for what he brought to my high school experience, and for the deep love of the arts that he nurtured in all his students. He was a very special man who so many will miss
deeply.

Marylyn (Dewey) Adams

May 25, 2009

To say he was the most infuential person in my life might be construed as an understatement! He encouraged me in chorus and keyboard in HS, and I graduated from Fredonia (following his footsteps somewhat) because of him. double-majoring in voice/piano. Even received a music scholarship to do so from local chapter of SPEBSQSA because of his musical connections...I have now retired from Teaching Middle School Music (chours/keyboard) in FL as well as having been a Church musician many years (starting also during HS years with Mr Crupi's suggestios and support)..Many of us in the classes of 56-57-58 were very close to him as he began, more-or-less, to build his music career by offering to the public his groups in former "HS Musical(s)" ....My family lived very near the Crupis in Horseheads, and the memories will never fade of his perpetual seeking of good, quality music which could serve the community as well as developing choral greatness. His expectations reflected his goals in self-expectation within each performer. Rest in Peace, Mr C....We know you will be in charge of cherubic choirs somewhere else, and the voices you leave behind will forever sing your praise. THANK YOU for all you gave each one of us! With fondness- I remain- Marylyn (Dewey) Adams

Kim Gardner

May 25, 2009

Condolences from Kim Gardner , Anna Maria Island Florida. I enjoyed listening to Joe's wonderful piano playing as I am a memeber of the Manatee Unitarian Universalist Church. I do not belong to the choir. I admired Joe for going far beyond what was asked of him; over & over.

Jan Walp Allen

May 25, 2009

Mr. Crupi's legacy is in the lives of those he influenced. He taught us vocal techniques that most singers don't encounter until college, with the result that we sounded much more mature than other high school choirs. From him, we also learned to respect guest conductors, to encourage anyone auditioning for a solo with applause, to mark our music to avoid repeating mistakes, and to avoid talking during rehearsals (he could read lips!). I have shared his vocal warmups and techniques with my church choir, and enjoy singing in local choral groups. The joy of music which Mr. C. cultivated in me is now being shared with my sons, the younger of which plans a career in music. Deepest sympathies from my husband Don and me to Mrs. C, Mark, and JoAnn, and to their families.

Judy Walp-Bovankovich

May 25, 2009

I remember the many wonderful times singing under Mr. Crupi in Chamber Singers, but far more the singing in the various choirs at the First United Methodist Church in Horseheads. Mr. Crupi was not just one of the most talented musicians I have ever met, but he touched so many lives and he had so much fun doing it. It was so many years ago, but I remember his asking us for our phone numbers and he would make up songs to them, using each number to be a note on the scale. I can only smile as I recall his great kindness and generosity: He was certainly an inspiration to so many of us and we will miss him.

Carol Bryant

May 25, 2009

I have had many wonderful music teachers in my life, but none more important than Mr. Crupi. His concepts of tone, vowels, phrasing, and overall musicianship have influenced everything I've done musically for the past 33 years. His ability to create such wonderful choirs and to provide so many incredible musical opportunities for us was truly amazing.

I was part of the choir that performed at the ACDA National Conference in St. Louis in 1975, and think that was one of his proudest moments. As I recall, our performance got a standing ovation from that prestigious group of choral directors from across the country, and Mr. C received the recognition he so richly deserved. At our first rehearsal back home after the trip, he sat us down to talk about the importance of what we had done. Filled with emotion, he broke down and cried, and we did too.

Mr. Crupi was such an important part of so many lives, and his memory will live on in his students, their students, and so on, forever.

Chris Ault(Smith)

May 25, 2009

My deepest condolences to the wonderful Crupi family. I have not kept in touch with you as my brother and sister have, but I am deeply sorry for your loss. Although Mr. Crupi will always be with us. I know that he will be Leading the Great Chorus in Heaven. He will be waiting and making a great place for us when we see him again. He was and is a great chorus director and music teacher and I believe God has a wonderful place for him there. I will never forget Mr.Crupi and my high school days(76) with Chamber Singer. "May God Hold You In The Palm Of HIs Hand "

scott bump

May 25, 2009

The memories and great respect I have of Mr Crupi will stay with me always. I often relive our trip to Europe and the things we learned and the sights we saw. I had wished lately that we could have had a chance to meet again. Mrs Crupi and Joann my sincerest condolences."There is a Balm in Gilead"

Lisa Lill~Cantando

May 25, 2009

I was very sad to learn of Mr. Crupi's passing on Friday. I had received a nice note from He and Mrs. Crupi in January and hoped to get together with them.

Mr. Crupi was and will forever be one of my most favorite people. He was more than just an amazing teacher, he was a friend to many of his students. I have many life long memories and friends because of him and my time spent in Chamber Singers. I will miss him greatly.

Sussan Scullin

May 25, 2009

Mr. Crupi was one of the very best music teachers I ever had. He inspired excellence and got it. Besides music, he taught "life". He was a blessing to all his students and many others as well. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. He will be missed by many.

Gary Scullin

May 25, 2009

Mr. Crupi was the single most important influence in my musical development. My life has taken many turns since high school, but my love of music has been a constant. 40 years after graduation, I have returned to my choral roots, and I'll be starting my fifth year as a member of the Houston Symphony Chorus in the fall. If Joe Crupi had not been in my life all those years ago, I would be poorer for it, and I would not be who I am today. Thank you Mr. C., and Godspeed.

Patrick Novak

May 25, 2009

My memories of Chamber Singers and the life long friends I made as a result of that time in my life are things I will always treasure. Mr. Crupi instilled a love of music in all of us, whether we went into it professionally or not, it became a part of you if you were in one of his choirs. He also taught many life lessons regarding responsibility, respect and dedication. Having moved to Sarasota, FL in 1992, I have had the pleasure of reconnecting with the Crupi's in later life and even instructing his grand daughter in her pursuit in a career in physical therapy. I will miss knowing that he is just down the road, but through our love of music he will always be near us.

Margaret Greible-mccracken

May 24, 2009

Mr. Crupi was a large part my Church life. He will truly be missed.

Phil Hayden

May 24, 2009

Mr. Crupi was simply one of the most important influences in my life. A lot of my professional training in music I received from him in high school, and I still try to apply his lessons weekly in my own work. He blessed many, many people, and will be greatly missed by all. Carol's and my condolences to all his family.

Dick Hayden

May 24, 2009

I too would like to add my condolences to Joe's family. That's the thing about a teacher - he/she touches an incredible number of lives. I sang in choirs in high school back in the 1964-1966 timeframe - Mr. Crupi (that WAS the way he was known to us students!) was a delight to be with, and his classes were always enjoyed and anticipated. Thank you, Joe, for being such a great teacher and inspiration.

Holly Johnson

May 24, 2009

I would like to express my condolences to the Crupi family on the loss of Joe. I will always be grateful to Mr. Crupi for working so hard to get the best out of all of us in his choir. He made me a better singer and prepared me for worship ministry in my adult years. Thank you Mr. Crupi. May God hold you in His loving care as you rejoice with the angels!

Michael Markaverich

May 24, 2009

I would like to express my most sincere condolences to Pat and the rest of the Crupi family upon hearing of their recent loss. Joseph Crupi contributed heavily to the cultural life and the music activities in Horseheads, New York where he taught for many years. He will be sorely missed.

Thomas Canali

May 24, 2009

My condolences to Mr.Crupi"s family.I knew
Joseph back in the 60"s, when I worked for
Johnny Muccigrosso. Joe would stop in with
a music tape for John to listen to and by
doing this he unknowingly introduced me to
some of the best music of the time. I'm sure he touched a lot of lives through his music. (Thanks Mr, Crupi). We'll all miss you. Tom Canali

Mark Edger

May 24, 2009

My deepest condolences to the Crupi family.
I was a student of Mr. Crupi in the early 70's. Although I couldnt read a stitch of music,he let me use my voice in the Concert Chorale. At a time in my life when school was a real chore, I always liked going to choir. My sisters and I will always remember Mr. Crupi as a Role Model ,quality human,and an excellent music teacher.

Dan Jackson

May 24, 2009

I have great memories of Joe Crupi and the Chamber Singers from Horseheads High School (Class of 1972).
He will be missed.

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