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Robert Canzoneri Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Canzoneri
Sponsored by Dewain Belgard, one of his students.
Mike Stasko
March 17, 2023
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.
Daniel Elasky
May 27, 2021
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.
Joseph Keane
January 28, 2019
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.
Kristen Frederickson
August 20, 2018
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.
Dewain Belgard
October 26, 2015
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.
October 14, 2011
My favorite professor at OSU. He encouraged a love of writing that continues to this day. Jay Osborne Columbus
Chuck Hester
January 16, 2011
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 >
Rebecca Canzoneri
January 5, 2011
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
John Stewart
December 31, 2010
Tough, gentle, ministerial: I have known Bob since our Palo Alto days. Could imagine him saying Miss me, but don't forget to carry on . . . Condolences, Candy.
Harold/Annette Highland
December 30, 2010
I loved talking to Bob and I will miss our conversations. He was always the kind and gentle man who lifted my spirits with his humor and kind words.
Mark Fabiano
December 29, 2010
Bob was my first fiction/creative writing professor. I had many classes from him and could never get enough of his wisdom and lessons on the craft. Fortunately, I was able to express my gratitude to him back in 2004 when we had lunch. I shared my publishing successes with him and thanked him. He said, "Oh well I maybe pointed you along. But this is all you." I beg to differ Bob. That I write today, and that anything I write might bring even an iota of pleasure to a reader here or there, all stems from your encouragement and generosity as a writing teacher, and your artful genius as a writer. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Thanks Bob!
Julie Bull
December 29, 2010
Candy, I just heard of Bob's passing. You (and the pups)are in my thoughts and prayers.
Teresa Austin
December 28, 2010
Candy, was sorry to hear about Bob. I remember him fondly. Our prayers are with you all. Love, Teresa Austin and Family (DeAnne Furry's youngest daughter).
Cuz Ron & Jan Davis
December 28, 2010
I always enjoyed talking with Bob and also reading his entertaining perspectives. He was much loved by Boo Boo and Uncle Tommy Davis He had a great run. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the pups.
Marilyn Johnson
December 11, 2010
Bob welcomed me for several summers when I was teaching at OSU and living in one of the dorms. He'd get me out to his wonderful house and Candy and I would play with the dogs and shuck corn while he made bread, grilled ribs, or concocted some other fabulous feast for us to lay waste to. I loved his spirit, his writing, his sense of fun; I loved being part of his circle, because he loved life and lived it so well.
Steve Kaczmarek
December 9, 2010
Candy, I took your English 265 almost 25 years ago, and memories of your wit and wisdom remain with me. You introduced me to Bob that quarter. I recall him fondly and over the years heard nothing but good things whenever his name came up. My deepest condolences.
Ceci Gray
December 9, 2010
Bob was all about love & laughter, fine wines and fine writing, kisses hello and goodbye, sports and dogs and walks in the bottoms. As somebody said in Little Women about Beth, Bob isn't lost to us, just gone before. Bob's nothing but the best, and so are Candy and the pups.
Martin Rusoff
December 8, 2010
Some people just seem to live more life than the rest of us. A great story teller, a fantastic chef, an ever willing participant in the sometimes silly but always competitive games we used to play. Even though we haven't been close for years,the world seems a slightly grayer place knowing that Bob has left it. Candy, please let us know if there is anything we can do. My mother, Jo Ann, was hoping that there would be a memorial service... We will miss Bob, but we have missed you too.
- The Rusoff Clan... TJ,Courtney,Brad and JoAnn
December 8, 2010
Blaine Andrus wanted me to be sure to send his deepest sympathy to you and your family. He has so many fond memories of his conversations with you
December 8, 2010
I didn't know Bob well, but I was and remain an ardent fan of his work. Nobody wrote with more wit, insight and warmth than Bob Canzoneri, and his books are models of instruction for those in thrall to the "willed word." Lee K. Abbott, current Director of the MFA Program in Creative Writing at OSU.
Carolyn Wilkins
December 8, 2010
Deep blessings of comfort and peace upon you and your family, Candy. Memories.....the inception of Creative Writing @ OSU, plus a great class with Professor Canzoneri, when I took the creative writing plunge as a non-traditional student back in the day.
Love.....
Carolyn
December 8, 2010
Blaine Andrus wanted me to be sure to send his deepest sympathy to you and your family. He has so many fond memories of his conversations with you
Doug Gray
December 8, 2010
I've never laughed so hard or so long as I did whenever Bob was in the room. Friend, teacher, mentor -- a man I've admired more than any other. He will be sorely missed.
December 8, 2010
Thank you for your service to our country.
Blue Star Mothers of America
Buckeye Military Moms, Ch 9
Worthington/Cols. OH
Murray Beja
December 8, 2010
Bob was a fine writer, a terrific colleague, and a wonderful, wise, witty man.
Lolita Johnson
December 7, 2010
Mr. Canzoneri was a great man that will truly be missed , I was blessed to know him, He will never be forgotten. May God forever Bless and keep his loving wife Candy and his family.
With Love,
Lolita Johnson
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