Vernon Wicker

One of the finest gentlemen I have ever known, Dr. Wicker was a patient and caring teacher who instilled the love of music in many, always with good humor. He never forgot his students and often sought them out in later years. I will miss his ready friendship.

Vernon and Jutta, we have been friends ever since we were students together at the University of Oregon. The road of life later led Vernon and me to be faculty members at Seattle Pacific University. I hold especially dear the times that we discussed Johann Sebastian Bach the man, and the profundity and meaning of his music. Just as Bach lived a pious and productive life serving both God and humanity through his music, so, also did you, my friend. Each time I hear and play this chorale I will think fondly of you and offer it as a testament to the life that you lived here on earth:

1. Vor deinen thron tret' ich hiermit,
O Gott! und dich demüthig bitt',
Wend' dein genädig angesicht
Von mir, dem armen sünder, nicht.

2. Du hast mich, o Gott Vater mild!
Gemacht nach deinem ebenbild,
In dir web', schweb' und lebe ich,
Vergehen müßt' ich ohne dich.

15. Ein selig's ende mir bescher',
Am jüngsten tag erweck' mich, Herr!
Daß ich dich schaue ewiglich.
Amen, Amen, erhöre mich.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Leslie Martin