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Gregg Goldenstein
Gregg Goldenstein
Obituary
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Gregg Goldenstein Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
K
June 22, 2024
He came into my mind today and i still wonder why he left us students. I found out i am older than he was before he died and my heart is now in my throat. I wish i could read the note he left to bring closer. I wish i could find out what made him take his life and choose not to be with us. I would have been his friend.
Heidi
November 25, 2023
I miss you, Gregois. ❤
Heidi
November 27, 2020
Thinking of you today, Long Boy...just like I so often do. I can remember being at the lake with your parents one time and we had so much fun. Miss your deep, rich, full laugh...
November 29, 2017
12 years yesterday.
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November 28, 2015
How does the Earth get along for ten years without someone so special on it? I know you're conducting a Heavenly Host. So I will not question it. I thank God for the time you remained here and the promise of seeing you again.
November 27, 2015
10 years tomorrow. Hard to believe.
April 3, 2015
Think of you often. Especially this week. We had so much fun on your birthday. Love you.
April 1, 2015
It would have been your 44th birthday today. We always joked when it fell during Holy Week. I miss you.
October 13, 2014
Been thinking of you lately, Gregg. Remembering. Sometimes, I forget what you looked like and I can't quite get all the details right in my mind's eye. But I know your voice, and all I have to do is be quiet for a second, and I can hear your rich laugh. I miss you. Sometimes I think about all the things you've missed--all the things and events since you died. I just miss you.
May 23, 2014
I miss you Mr. G. My heart saddens every time I think about the fact that you should still be here! To his family, I was just his student, you were his everything. Please know that he has not been forgotten and people still care even after all these years.
Emily Knutson
May 22, 2014
You taught me how to sing, how to express myself, and how to love music. Everytime I sing I think of you. I wish you didn't have to go so soon. You were my choir teacher for two years and I still remember everything you taught me. Thank you for sharing your love of music with me.
March 22, 2014
I saw your spirit in the young directors that were in charge of my child's choir concert. They reminded me so strongly of you, it was breathtaking. I still miss you.
Molly Weisenburger
January 18, 2014
After all these years I am still reminded of "Mr. G" now and then. His life impacted mine more than he ever could have known.
September 23, 2013
Hey G. I still think of you. I don't think I'll ever stop.
August 13, 2013
For some reason was thinking of you the other day. Missing you. Homecoming weekend 1993. Was LOL about it.
J Z
August 5, 2013
For some reason, my old friend and colleague Gregg Goldenstein showed up in my mind today. I so appreciated his talent, both as a musician and director, and he was a hoot to be around. His death was such a tragedy then--a fact and a feeling that has not lessened with time.
December 12, 2012
Gregg, I did not know you, we had never met, but I purchased your Holy Bible, and still have it and by opening it's pages, I find that you loved the Lord and by reading all of the notes, cards and photos in the Bible, you were loved and are missed. As a believer myself, I can say that I will see you in Heaven someday soon. May the Lord bless all of your family members and if they don't have a personal relationship with our Savior and Lord Yeshua Ha Mashiach, Jesus the Savior, may they come to know Him soon.
Shalom! Happy Hanukah and Merry Christmas everyone!
Francesca Welsh <
December 10, 2012
Still remembering. Glad to see I'm not the only one.
Susie Sanner
November 17, 2012
The love for Gregg seems to grow stronger with each passing year. I miss him terribly and send my love and best wishes to Gregg's wonderful parents Barb and Bob and to his dear sister Gara.
November 15, 2012
As this time of year approaches, I remember a very good friend and a very good teacher. Miss you today, miss you always!
Wendy Skalicky
January 31, 2012
Gregg, it still breaks my heart that you are gone. You are so missed. I wish you only knew how much. I am so blessed and honored to have gotten to know you on our MaySem to Europe. I need to find the picture of you, Billy and Becky all sharing a sleep car because it always makes me smile. I know you are in Heaven watching over us, but we miss you nonetheless.
January 30, 2012
I often think of Mr. G and what a great inspiration he was for his students. I have never known a more hardworking, dedicated, and talented music teacher. I keep wishing we could have done more for him in return for the gifts of music and compassion he gave to all of us at the school.
November 29, 2011
Remembering Gregg. I sang in "Messiah" again this weekend--the first time since he died. I kept hearing his voice.
November 29, 2011
Thinking of Gregg and what a good friend I lost.
December 15, 2010
I think of Gregg's parents and sister so often and pray for them, especially this time of year.
November 28, 2010
G will never be forgotten. He was an great musician, an amazing teacher and an can never truely be gone as long as there is music in this world.
November 28, 2010
It's been five years since Gregg died. I miss him, and always will, but I also know that Gregg is alive to God, and one day we will meet again.
April 1, 2010
Today is Gregg's birthday.
December 2, 2009
Remembering Gregg. Missing him, wishing things had been different, but grateful for the time I had with him and for the gifts he shared with everyone he knew.
Heidi
November 30, 2009
Missed you this weekend, Gregg. Think of you often with each passing year.
A Student
November 28, 2009
We will never forget you G. Out of all the teachers and professors I've had throughout high school and my 2 years of college, very few have touched my life in the way G did. A line from one of the last songs that G picked out for us was "Let music never die in me, forever let my spirit sing" Because of G music will be a part of so many lives and he will live in our memories and our music forever.
Barb Goldenstein
November 15, 2009
To all of Gregg's dear friends,
Gregg's goal in life was to make a difference in his students' lives and to encourage you all to love music. From the many things you've written I know he accomplished this. In the note he left for us, the last thing he said was that he would miss his teaching and his students so much. Tears are running down my face as I'm writing this as our lives will never be the same without him. He was our only son and we loved him so much -- and still do. Thank you with all my heart for loving him too.
Love to you all, Gregg's mom
April 1, 2009
Gregg would have been 38 today.
November 28, 2008
3 years ago, today, we lost you G. and even though those years have passed and life has gone on, it hasn't been the same without you here. i miss you so much and will never forget all the things you taught me and the amazing teacher and person you were. thoughts and prayers to his family and friends always, but especially today.
Kalah
November 28, 2008
you were my inspiration to continue with music in college and when i'm feeling discouraged i think of your constant support. 3 years today and you're still on my mind, in my heart...in every song i sing.
November 25, 2008
I have thought of you so many times this week all ready. Such a sense of loss I feel, but good memories...such good memories. You were a "long boy."
November 24, 2008
Another year has passed by and I miss you as much now as ever. I wish you were here enjoying life with your friends and family.
Anonymous
August 20, 2008
I've been in so much pain. Whenever I think that I can't go on, I come here and read the tributes to Gregg. And I know that somehow I have to keep going.
April 4, 2008
Happy birthday, Gregg. A couple days late, but that was always the way with us, no?
Jeremy Oliver
February 29, 2008
Mr. G was always one to encourage me to sing a solo and not be afraid if I was off pitch for a second. He truly was an inspirational teacher. God Bless His family.
January 15, 2008
I miss you so much! I think about you almost every day in the little things I see or places I go, and I'm so glad that of all the things I learned in my life, I learned to really Listen to music from you.
December 26, 2007
G:
I think about you all the time. i didn't know you for that long, and you still made a HUGE impact on my life. every time i go on stage for a choir concert i say to myself "Do this for 'G'... sing amazing and with the passion mr. g. had"
i miss you so much.
Jessica
December 5, 2007
all i can say is...AND...TURTLE!!! i love you and miss you
Heidi Schwedler
December 3, 2007
Wow, G. Two years already. Hard to believe that it's been that long. I'm at Concordia now, majoring in Music Ed. The thought never would have crossed my mind if I hadn't had you for a teacher. You changed music for me - you taught me to sing with passion and emotion, and to make sure that I could convey the emotions that fill every piece of music. I just hope that I can pass that on to my students some day, and that I can live up to at least part of the amazing choir director you were. I never thanked you in person, but I hope you knew what an amazing impact you had on my life and so many others. You are still missed, but hopefully we can all sing with you again in Heaven some day.
December 1, 2007
I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason leaving something we must learn, and we are led to those who help us most to grow if we let them and we help them in return... Well I don't know if i believe that's true, but because I knew you; I have been changed for good.
November 30, 2007
You truly inspired me in the short time I knew you to do something that I love with my life. I have you to thank for my renewed love of music.
Kimberly
November 29, 2007
Memories fade, people carry on
Dark nights bring new dawns
But some things are never forgotten
Thoughts of an old teacher and friend
The wear of time will never bend
Kalah
November 29, 2007
still thinking about you G, a part of you is in every piece of music i sing. miss you forever
Matt
November 29, 2007
Wow, it's been over two years now. I still think about the good times the choir had with you G. You were the man, and still are. We all miss you very much and you will still be in our thoughts, prayers, and most importantly, our hearts.
November 29, 2007
we still remember you. you are missed and will never be forgotten. i hope you are still making Music with Amery up in heaven.
November 28, 2007
I just wish I could talk to you one more time. I miss you so much. God, you were so beautiful. Why did you go?
Luke Slizewski
November 28, 2007
G, your memory will forever live on with me in my music, you gave me a love for it, a passion that nobody could take away. You are singing with the angels now. I miss you and will see you again someday. We Love and Miss you.
November 28, 2007
I can't believe how the time has passed. I think of you often.
November 28, 2007
Gregg I love you and I will always miss you!
"Messiah" November 27, 2005 Gregg's last performance
November 28, 2007
November 28, 2007
Two years today. I miss you. More than I ever thought I would.
November 14, 2007
It's taken about two years for me to formulate my thoughts. I have to say, memories of you constantly keep appearing. Different places, songs, even people bring out characteristics and reminders of you which will never be forgotten.
A Student
October 30, 2007
Your memory is still with us. You will never be forgotten.
Andy Kust
April 10, 2007
I was a private voice student of Gregg's for about two years. I am now studying opera in college, and I owe the entirety of my appreciation and love for music to Gregg. He had such a passion for what he did and he touched my life in a way that no one else has. I only wish that I had the opportunity to thank him for what he has done for me and perhaps someday be able to give him back something in return, so I take this opportunity to say thank you and goodbye. God Bless.
Ann Marie (Johnson) Waltzer
December 12, 2006
I am a fellow Cobber who just saw the news of Gregg's passing in the most recent issue of our alumni magazine. I knew Gregg very briefly from his presence in choir and working on campus ministry. His family and those who loved him will be in our prayers tonight. God bless you during this season of peace and hope, and may the joy of the Christchild continue to comfort you.
Cindy Watson
November 28, 2006
Dear Family and Friends of Gregg
I can't believe it's been a year already. You've made it thru the first Christmas, Easter, Birthday, and now the first Thanksgiving without him. I think of you so often and pray for you. Your loss is great, your Hope is greater. That is the best comfort anyone can offer.
I've been studying the book of Daniel this fall.
Last evening's study focused on the passages of Scripture that allude to the Rapture of the Saints. The loud blast of the trumpet, the shout of the angel. One day, we will be "swept away" in the "twinkling of an eye" and Gregg will be there with his beautiful smile ready to welcome us and worship with us.
God give you comfort today and thru this Christmas Season.
With love,
Cindy Watson
Gregg's neighbor
Pari Bailey
November 27, 2006
A year ago tonight, Gregg sang in his last public performance. I am so grateful to have been there as he delivered several bass recitatives and arias from Handel's "Messiah." I remember thinking that his voice had matured immensely--rich and warm and finally coming into its own-- and that he was going to be formidable in 5 years. I did not know that what I was hearing was his voice at its final apex.
On this first anniversary of his death, I post the last words he ever sang in performance, from the great "resurrection" chapter of I Corinthians 15. Gregg sang these, and the way he sang them, I knew he believed them.
"Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep; but we shall all be changed,in a moment, in a twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet;
The trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality."
I have not been able to listen to this piece since that night a year ago. Tomorrow, I will drive to Gregg's grave with yellow roses, and I will listen to this aria, and I will stand at my friend's grave and trust that the promises of God are sure: the dead shall be raised. It will not seem like a twinkling of an eye to me--I will spend the rest of my life missing him--but Jesus has Gregg now, and all our days are in his hands.
Nonetheless, God doesn't lie: those who believe in Jesus, even though they die--they will live! I await the silver voice of the arhangel's trumpet, and I take comfort in knowing that it will sound for Gregg, and me, and you.
Peace tonight and tomorrow, and all your days, dear ones of Gregg Goldenstein!
A Student
November 27, 2006
In a single heartbeat our lives can change
Our emotions thrown in disarrange
A loss that hurt us deep inside
Tears and emotions we were unable to hide
A place once so warm felt empty and strange
So many questions left unanswered
So many emotions still being stirred
A single person with a single choice
The news hit with unbelievable force
Despite the pain the voice of the choirs were heard
He was loved by all his choirs
His Passion for music was like fire
It engulfed everyone he knew
It showed in everything he’d do
His dedication never tired
The memories will bond us where every we may be
We will never forget our beloved G
I can't believe its been a year. He ment so much to all of us.
Heidi (Engler) Raulerson
November 16, 2006
I can't believe it. Almost a year all ready. I was so happy to see a previous entry by Francesca, the woman who bought Gregg's Bible at auction. Thank you so much for honoring him, Francesca. How I wish she could have known him as all of us have. I wrote her a little email, telling her the things I write here as tears roll down my face. I told her about how Gregg was wonderfully kind and about how his laugh was low and deep and rumblingly contagious. I forgot to tell her about how at Homecoming he became known to many of us as "the long boy." I told her how he was the only man who would polish my toenails, taking the job very seriously. That he was the only one who would sing Air Supply with me at the tops of our lungs (from the diaphragm of course) as we rolled along in his new Camry from Moorhead to the Cities to visit Pari, Trevor, Sara, Todd, Kevin, Scot et al. after we were the only ones left. How we often spoke of marrying each other even though we'd never dated...sometimes seriously in my parents' basement and other times not so seriously, joking that we'd get married in the first car of the roller coaster at MOA (despite Gregg's motion sickness). I told her about how he was an awesome whist partner, though he could never sit backward on the bus. And how I still make the best chocolate chip cookies in my family because of him and Pari. He really was so special and at this time of Thanksgiving, I am so grateful to have known him. What a blessing. A big hello to all of you, you know who you are. And Mr.&Mrs. G and Gera...I am praying for you and hoping the Lord will grant you a peace that surpasses all understanding.
November 16, 2006
Dear friends and family,
This guestbook is now sponsored permanently in Gregg's memory by his Concordia Choir friends of 1992 and 1993.
It is our honor to do this.
Kimberly Nonbello
November 11, 2006
Last night was the opening night of our musical Hello Dolly. That night brought back so many memories that brought a smile to my face and tears to my eyes. Watching the actors of stage reminded me of a certain scene from Bye Bye Birdie. Many of you probably remember the song A Mother Doesn't Matter Anymore, and when the person who played Albert’s mother wasn't there G came out in her hat and carrying her purse and save the song. Everyone was laughing to the point of crying. Its good memories like that keep me going each day. We miss you all very much and we will never forget him. I hope this message will bring remind at least one person of a good memory and bring a smile to their face.
Stephanie Belland
October 23, 2006
Mr. G
We miss you very much...so very much. It has been almost a year from the time of your death and it still hasn't healed. We love you and won't forget you...Music will never die in me
October 5, 2006
I count myself extremely lucky to have been a good friend of Gregg's. There are not many days that go by that I don't think of him and the positive influence he had on my life. I miss him greatly! May he have found the peace in Heaven he needed.
September 26, 2006
Mr. G... i just wanted you to know that no matter what i will never forget... You made such a large impact on my life. I just want to Thank You for everything. One of my first college papers was about you.. and the words just seemed to flow out onto the page. Thank you for my voice.. Without you it wouldnt have improved so much. I hope the angels in heaven know how lucky they are to have you standing beside them.
Lisa
August 10, 2006
I'm singing for you this year G... senior year... and every year after this year too. We miss you. A lot. Thanks for all the hard work and passion you gave to the choir. We'll carry on your legacy. You were an awesome director. Thanks.
Francesca Welsh
July 13, 2006
To Greg's family,
You don't know of me, we have never met. I was able to obtain Greg's Holy Bible at the Auction that took place at his house in Anoka, MN. My name is Francesca Welsh and I too am a believer in Messiah Yeshua, Jesus our Messiah! I love Greg's bible and keep it on my coffee table along with my own bible, in Honor of him. I find that I am drawn to it from time to time and read it and all the notes written in it. I never had the honor and privilige to have known Greg in this life, but, I will meet him face to face when the Lord calls me home also. Greg's family, consider yourselves blessed and at peace knowing that Greg is now walking the Streets of Gold in Heaven.
Blessings to all of you,
Francesca Welsh <
Pari (Rohrbach) Bailey
June 30, 2006
Gregg's family has placed a lovely marker at his grave. There is a "family" stone--upright, of polished black granite, that says simply, "Goldenstein" and has a wheat-and-flowers decoration. Gregg's stone lies flush with the ground. At the top is the word, "Son." There is a treble clef staff with some notes of music. And underneath his name and dates, there is this Psalm verse: "I will sing unto the Lord."
It's good to see. As I've visited his grave this winter, it has been lonely and barren, though I could always tell from the footprints in the snow that others had also come to watch over him.
Now the grass is green, and the polished stone absorbs the sun and holds it--late into the evening, it is still warm. You see? Even the grave holds the promise of life, and a new day, through the Lord to whom Gregg sang.
I miss him so deeply and am grateful for these months in which I have grown closer to his family and had the opportunity to see him through their eyes, a little. Ironically, in a month I am moving to within 20 miles of Clara City. Life is surely strange. Gregg went to Concordia to be a pastor; I went to Concordia to be a teacher. Along the way, we swapped vocations. But God guided us both to be exactly where we were supposed to be. I pray for you, Gregg's students and family and friends, that you also will know the joy of always singing to the Lord.
Kimberly
June 28, 2006
If you ask someone where they were when Pearl Harbor was attacked or when the Twin Towers fell most people can tell you exactly where they were. If you ask me where I was when I learned about G's death I can tell you, second floor, right outside the stairs with 3 of my friends. This event had a huge impact on me. So many emotions were going through me heart, sadness, anger, confusion. I dreaded going to choir, but when I got there it was the most comforting place I could be. We talked and sang the "Awakening." That song means so much to me especially the lines "Let Music never die in me. Forever let me spirit sing" That day I wrote a poem and after seven months I still read it on this day.
Your memory lives on
Not just in our hearts
But in the music we sing
When we sing you will always be with us
You will live forever in the music
Even now in this time of sadness
Our voices are stronger than our tears
The tears will not stop us from singing
They will strengthen our sound and love for you
You will live forever in the music
Because of G Heavens choir of angels are singing better and the music will never die in me and my spirit will always sing.
Sara Dovre Wudali
January 2, 2006
I'm starting this new year a little heavily as I think about the loss of Gregg. I hadn't seen him in years. We were in the Concordia Choir together and I have really nice memories of our last tour together. To counter the heaviness this season, I have this wonderful picture of a bunch of us after our last concert of the year--it's been on my mantel for years now. We're ecstatic to be done for the year, laughing, hugging. The guys' robes are all half off, sweaty white t-shirts showing our labor. The women are all still proper in our uniform tan nylons and roasting robes. We're proud of our music and proud of how hard we have worked to make it. And we're laughing with delight at our youth and our energy and our humor. This is how I remember Gregg. His life was filled with this intensity and the love of those around him. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends.
A great Choir Director
December 16, 2005
Brenda Reishus
December 15, 2005
I actually never met Mr. Goldenstein, however I attended a choir concert at Maple Grove Senior High last winter. Osseo Jr. High sang as did Maple Grove Sr. High, my daughter was in 9th grade then. I was so moved by the music that Mr. Goldenstein had chosen, that I cried. I thought to myself...how wonderful, a teacher that isn't worried about being "P.C." I regret not sending Mr. G, as the kids call him, a card to express how I felt. I can at least let you know that he moved me that night. What a joy he must have been to all of his students. He most definitely is an angel in heaven now. My sympathy to your whole family.
Adam Crowson
December 11, 2005
My condolences to Mr. Goldenstein's family. I just heard about his death and am quite shocked. I was one of his students at Dover-Eyota in the mid-90s. When I look back on those days, I'm glad "Mr. G" saw some talent in me -- or something? -- and encouraged me to work hard at choral music. Music is and always has been a part of my life, and while I never continued on with choir after high school, it was being in choir that taught me to be a leader and have the ambition for my chosen career, journalism, and I guess I thank Mr. G for that awkward phase in life known as junior high for teaching me not to care about others and do what I need to do.
December 9, 2005
Goldenstein Family:
How awesome was the love that you shared with Mr. "G" so that he "carried it forward" to so many of the kids he encouraged and taught! We pray that the messages that are in this guest book in time, will bring you some joy and peace.
Mr. "G" was LOVED, RESPECTED and first and foremost A TEACHER! As you read through these many messages, Mr. "G" taught his students, but not only did he teach, he encouraged, he shared his vision and yes, he "paid it forward". Because of Mr. "G" there will be alot of kids impacted and they will "pay it forward" -- his legacy will continue to grow!
Thank you for sharing him with all of the schools he taught in, all of the individuals that he shared time with in teaching, singing, and Bible study. As much as his loss has impacted so many, I know that our GOD is going to use this loss for HIS glory for all those impacted.
GOD bless and hold your family close during this time. Hopefully, the memorial service on December 11th --- will fill your heart with joy for all that Mr. "G" did for the MGSH kids, staff and parents.
Matt Otto
December 7, 2005
Mr. G...
Well, I was horribly saddened to hear the news that you had passed away. That was the last thing I expected to hear walking in to choir last week. Mrs. Lausche, Madde and myself all felt the sadness that day.
Even though I only knew you a short time, you were one hell of a guy! When I worked with you in choir and in foundations/tech crew, that was a great time.
I'm sorry that I didn't get to know you more before I moved back over to Osseo.
I know many people in your choir will miss you dearly. You were a very dedicated person, and I will miss that. I will also miss my friend, Mike Wrolstad, tell me about the funny thing you did or said in choir that day.
Your departure from us was so premature, and I wish that you would have stayed with us longer.
I also wish the last thing I said to you would have been different than, "I'll see you at the NWSC when Osseo's choir kicks your choir's butt!" (P.S.- He and I both laughed at that.) Anyway, I wish I would have said..."Good luck," or "Thanks G!". But I will say it to you right now, "Good luck, and thanks."
Matt Otto
David Barstad
December 5, 2005
To Greg's family,
My sincerest sympathy to all of you. May God hold you all in the palm of His hand as you experience this great loss. I am so sorry to hear this news. What a loss for the music department of Maple Grove Senior High.
I volunteered to sing when Greg and the music department asked for parents and community members to sing with the chorus and orchestra. We performed Rutter's "Gloria" two years ago. It was so much fun to work with Greg and all the students. I will always remember this unique event and Greg's enthusiam and expertise. May your family, friends and God surround you during your time of grief, now, and as you face the days ahead.
Krista Wold
December 5, 2005
I was shocked to hear of G's death. He had such big shoes to fill when Mrs. Holen left the choir department and he did it so well. I don't think anyone has ever pushed me harder in my singing or by just improving myself. He will be greatly missed.
Matt Endreson
December 5, 2005
To Gregg's Family and loved ones,
How do you put into words what a Mentor, such as G, has meant to so many that he surrounded. It was in High School at West Central Area that we first met. To be quite honest I was into music already, but G really brought out the love of music and what impacted me was the passion he displayed, not only the music but for all of his students. I graduated in 1999 from WCA and went to Concordia College, which in all honesty I might not have done if it weren't for G. He encouraged me to pursue my talents and pursue Music. I became a Teacher and Choir Director and have tried to model that compassion that he showed for all that were around him. I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you. Because I really would not be doing what I am today if it were not for Gregg and I appreciate that so much.
Matt Endreson
Janet Grigg
December 5, 2005
To Mr. Goldenstein's family,
We were shocked and deeply saddened at the news. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and all the students whose lives that he touched. In his first year at Maple Grove, he was able to work with three of my sons in "The Music Man" and I remember when he found out last spring that we would be moving that he wouldn't know how to act without a Grigg in his class... (he would have taught 2 more). He always made the kids feel important and that they meant the world to him. You could tell that he loved what he did. We'll never be able to understand the "why's"... but let us focus on what amazing things that he was able to accomplish and the love we all feel for him... whether we be a parent, student, church associate, friend or family member. Our prayers are with you.
Kim Barthel
December 5, 2005
Mr. G. You will be greatly missed by all whose lives you touched with your love for music & for the people you influenced as a result. My daughter Jessica is an 11th grader as MGSH & has been inspired by your direction. Choir is her favorite class & I know that you were the main reason for that. Your students truly loved you & respected you as a teacher & as a friend. It was easy to see why, you were so friendly & loving every time I saw you. You put your heart & soul into these kids & they each have grown & learned because of you. You will be forever missed. May you now find peace and comfort in God's arms as you sing with the choir of angels. God Bless you and may your family find comfort in God's love.
Kim
JSM
December 5, 2005
My goodbye to Mr. Goldenstein
Mr. Goldenstein,
There is only one place to begin. And that is thank you! Thank you for all you have done for me. You had faith in me when I was scared to sing, you had faith in me when I didn’t know how, you had faith in me with the opening song, and you had faith in me when I did a little dance on stage. Without music in my life I don’t know where I would be. And without your faith and you I wouldn’t have music. We had so many good times…Daddy Warbucks (I know you hate that musical) all of our practices and stressful times when we didn’t know the words to the songs very well. You exposed me to so many great things…how to sing, broadways and what music can do in your life. We sang at so many different places. Elementary schools, junior highs, senior highs, colleges, office buildings, old homes, pep fests, coronations, graduations, hotels, buses, aquariums, churches, cathedrals, funerals, New York streets and so many more. What you have done in my life I will never forget. You will live on in the voices of the students you have taught because I know that you have impacted their lives just as much as you have mine. I will miss you Mr. Goldenstein, my guide, my teacher, and my friend!
Kaydee Dombrowski
December 5, 2005
To Gregg's family:
You are in our thoughts and prayers for now and always!
Ellen Smith
December 4, 2005
"G" was the best teacher I ever had even if it was for a short time he influenced so many things in our choirs and lives. Teachers just dont get any better then him. "G" watch us from up there we're working for you.
Heather Bates
December 4, 2005
As I'm reading through all these entries in Mr. G's guestbook, all I can do is nod.. Everything everyone is saying sounds so familiar and I'd agree whole heartedly. Mr. G made such an impact in my life and my singing, even though I only had him for three years before he left our little school to move on to better and bigger things. He made me want to work so much harder for him, and I just loved the way he could pick out the most perfect pieces for our choir. I'll never forget his laugh, his quick smile, or even when he would get mad at us. You could always see him start to turn red, and then we knew we'd better get to work. He was an inspiration to my singing, and to my life. As a student at West Central Area, I also had the opportunity to be taught by Barb, who subbed for our Spanish class, and after meeting her, I completely understood how Mr. G became such a wonderful man. My deepest sympathies Barb, Bob and Gara. 'G' will be greatly missed in all of our lives, but I know he'll live on in my life through my singing, and we'll never forget him. ~Until we meet again~
Matt
December 4, 2005
Mr. G was my friend, choir director, teacher, and example. I loved him and dearly, dearly miss him.
I visited MGSH about two or three weeks ago and visited with him. We had a wonderful discussion of all his plans for the choir and Crimson Harmony. He had a fire and passion for life, and music. Probably in reverse order.
He was an amazing man who lived through music and as a teacher, helped so many people do the same. Whether on stage, in the audience, or otherwise apart of his life, he has affected us, and blessed us with his radiant gift which he so selflessly gave continually.
Mr. Goldenstein was a man of smiles and happiness. His bright, round, pink face always brightened my day. I love him. I loved him then and I love him now because he lives. He lives today and is so dearly dearly loved by those here, and those on the other side.
To family and friends who fear for his eternal well-being I tell you that hope is not lost. He lives and still has the opportunity to be saved. It's Greg's decision, but we must do all we can to help him be guided in the right direction. Our prayers and fasting are blessing him in a very direct and literal manner.
He lives. He exists. He is. This is not just a beleif. I know that my Redeemer lives and I know that he loves Greg, and each of us. He longs for G's return in righteousness and will do all in his power to help him get back. But by our prayers in faith, we supply the needed faith for that miraculous change of heart to occur within G so that he can throroughly and completely repent of his sins. May he be blessed and find peace in the Lord, Jesus. We will be blessed for our diligence, and I can think of no greater blessing than to know that he is saved, that he is welcomed with open arms into the Kingdom of God. Truly, the Lord has given Greg a great gift. He has and will continue to use it for the betterment of those around him. May his voice be heard on high with numberless concourses of angels, singing praises to His name.
I praise the Lord and thank him for the blessing of Mr. Gregory Goldenstein. He was an absolutely amazing man. He was a pivital influence on me and a cause of so much good. He was devoted to his students and the music which they make. We will always remember our dear friend, and Music Man, Mr. G.
Remember..."Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional." ~Hyrum W. Smith~
And so, let us remember Mr. G for who he was. A musical teddy bear who was always pink in the face with wide dimples from a bright smile. He was a wonderful man and I cannot thank the Lord enough for blessing me with a year of study under him.
Gratitude is a tool to stimulate humility, which is essential to have the Lord with you, and by no other means may peace in death and our heartaches and struggles be found. I cannot be with you, friends and family, but the Lord's spirit can and I pray it be upon you always. Let each of us be blessed and find strength in knowing that Greg's destiny lies in his own hands. He has much ahead of him, but "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." ~Phil 4:13~ And my prayer is that we all may, and that Greg may.
With love and encouragement and I say goodluck, and God bless you my friends. May the Lord be with you and his tender mercies be extended to you always, to bless and keep each of us as his sheep. This is my hope and prayer.
~With love~
Pari (Rohrbach) Bailey
December 3, 2005
At sunset today, Trevor and I were the last to stand at Gregg's gravesite. The weather had deteriorated, and we arrived too late for the interment service. So we stood vigil as the casket was lowered and the vault was closed. A single yellow rose lay on the bronze vault, near a plain gold cross and an inscribed nameplate that reads, "Gregg R. Goldenstein, 1971-2005." Trevor traced the sign of the cross over the open grave, and as we turned to go, the hem of the clouds lifted and the wan sun turned the headstones to long silhouettes: that impossible Minnesota-winter color of grey-blue over clear white.
Gregg is buried at the outskirts of Clara City, near a venerable pine tree, but with a long view of the fields to the north. The sun will fall full on his grave. He'd have liked that.
Come summer, on the first day of blistering 98-and-humid, I will take my bagpipes, the sounds of which he always loved, and do for him what I could not in today's 10-degree chill. And then Trevor and I will sing for him what we could not today, for nearness of grief:
"Lord, let at last thine angels come,
To Abraham's bosom bear me home, That I may die unfearing.
And in its narrow chamber keep
My body safe in peaceful sleep, until thy reappearing.
And then from death awaken me,
That these mine eyes with joy may see,
O Son of God, thy glorious face:
My treasure and my fount of grace.
Lord Jesus Christ! My prayer attend! My prayer attend!
And I will praise thee without end."
--German hymn, 16th century
Gjon Prendi
December 3, 2005
Bob, Barb and Gara.
I am so sorry to have heard of Greggs death.My thoughts and prayers are with you daily. God bless
Adam Daniels
December 3, 2005
I've been sitting here for a while, trying to figure out what I want to say. And what I've come up with is this. G will be forever missed by everyone he knew. He gave me more then he knew. My love for singing was made so much richer from his guidance, through choir and my two years in the musical; I have learned to appreciate music and to really listen to what it has to offer. With that, I hope to make him proud and work even harder to become the best singer I can be. I feel that I owe him that, since he worked so hard. I know I have become a better person from the time I shared in his classes and the many rehearsals he, the cast, and crew spent on putting on two wonderful musicals. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, colleagues, and every single member of Maple Grove Senior High choirs, past and present. God bless you all!
Philip Bartley
December 3, 2005
G was an amazing director, foundations teacher, and friend. He helped me through times where I was not confident in my skills, when I was really frustrated with my inabililty to perform well, and when I couldn't understand why I was not picked for the honor choirs. He made me work, and he made me understand that my voice is only as beautiful as I make it. The more heart and soul you put into the music, the better that it sounds. I will miss his constant pushing towards the greater sound, and the understanding and tolerance that he had for us. We loved him, and he will never be forgotten by me, or anyone else that he once taught. G, may the Lord bless and keep you, and may you rest in peace.
Lori Osberg
December 3, 2005
Mr.Goldenstein,
You were My son Michael's music teacher.I only met you once , and that was at conferences.I could tell from that short meeting that you really enjoyed your job and the kids.Not many teachers have really touched my sons life...but you did.Michael enjoyed you as a teacher and considered you a friend.
You will be missed.Rest in peace now
Deb Kelly
December 3, 2005
To Mr. Goldenstein's Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of your son's death. I have a son who had him as choir director and also for Crimson Harmony for two years. He learned so much from Gregg and was given so many opportunities. I also chaperoned a trip to New York with him and he was always wonderful with the students and took so much joy in what he was doing. He encouraged all of his students and has been an inspiration to many. He will be greatly missed.
Patrick Cheney
December 3, 2005
G was an inspiration to every student he ever came into contact with. When I found out I wasn't graduating on time he was there to encourage me not to give up. HE made me feel comfortable to go sing with the rest of the choir during commencement. It's because of him that I decided to major in music education. He had a way to bring out the best in every person. He shaped us all into fabulous singers. He was like a father to me. I hope to be half as good of a teacher as he was. I am going to miss him dearly. My heart goes out to his family. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Beth Harguth
December 2, 2005
To the Goldenstein family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time of loss. May your happy memories guide you in the right path.
With my sympathy,
Christa
December 2, 2005
He has touched everybody's lives. I won't forget the memories of him taking us out on the boat during the family reunions and how he made everybody smile. Gregg, we'll miss you!!!
December 2, 2005
To Mr.Goldenstein's family - You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in Your bottle. You have recorded each one in Your book. -Psalms 56:8 May God comfort you in this very painful time of your life.
Cindy (Claxton) Knight
December 2, 2005
Dear Bob, Barb and Gara,
I remember the first time I met Gregg. There was something special in his eyes that caught my attention right away. Over the following months, he taught me about friendship, love and relationships: things I have carried with me and have helped me in other relationships in my life. He was the one that taught me you had to be friends first and God needed to be the center of a relationship for it work. I also remember the weekend I went home with Gregg and Gara to the pig farm. It was a special weekend to meet you and see where he grew up. Even though our relationship didn’t last, we still shared a lot together through friends and the Concordia Choir. As time went on, I only talked with him a couple of times. Then I ran into him at Maple Grove Sr. High three years ago when I was subbing. I couldn’t believe we ended up teaching in the same district! I had the opportunity to talk with him again a few times over the past few years of teaching for the Osseo Area Schools. He still had that special something in his eyes. I will miss seeing that and seeing him. May God bless you, comfort you and give you strength. You are in my prayers.
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