Warren Wechsler

A the very end, often in pain, Warren died as he lived, forever laughing, clear-eyed and unsentimental, never an unkind word, with always a song in his heart. He only feared he might not ever get to see his dear family and the many friends who adored him. How he will be missed.
Richard Klein

I received this email from Bryn Matthews, who directed TOM JONES (my lyrics, Warren´s music):

Hello Dear Friend Jack - 
Thank you for letting me know of Warren´s passing from this fragile world. I remember well his erudite, humorous way and am saddened by this news. The musical version of Tom Jones was full of wonderful melodies and  lyrics that enhanced the emotional connection to the characters and filled the plot with humour and charm and is the Warren in my memory.

I didn´t know of your recent experience in the hospital and hope you have recovered sufficiently to
enjoy a few more good years.

A month-long sojourn in the hospital early in the new year uncovered my own serious and finally terminal health condition.  A lung disease known as Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis, for which there is no cure. My spirit is good, I am well cared for at home and know the day could come at anytime when I am no longer able to function and I am at Peace with that.

While I have enjoyed a few "highlights" in my 86 years I want you to know that among those most cherished is Tom Jones, the .  I thank you Dear Jack and Dear Adelle for that 1962 moment in my life.

I hope we can stay in touch as we have in recent years, even if only electronically. 

With love and every good wish for you now and always.

Bryn

Warren was a steadfast, hilarious and loving friend.
May his memory be a blessing.

Warren Wechsler and I wrote the songs for a very successful musical version of Fielding´s TOM JONES. It was presented at Cornell University in the 1960s.

FOR WARREN

Died August 16,
as I,
still a bit drugged
from my 4-day stay,
emerged from
Kaiser hospital.
wow, years!
we looked back
and saw so many,
way back
to the nineteen forties.
a few weeks ago,
we had a great, last
conversation,
still friends,
never having argued.
you were pleased
that I wished Tom Jones
to be part
of my legacy
and you told me
of your cancer.
in autumn
we watch
as the leaves
fall silently.
dear friend,
you heard
their sound.

Jack Foley

I met Warren in the Adirondacks 20 years ago. A multi-gifted gentleman, NYC just became diminished. Condolences to his family and all who knew him.
bob Dawson