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Walter S. Falk III

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University of Texas

Walter Falk Obituary

Walter S. Falk III Texas artist and long-time Austinite Walter S. Falk III died unexpectedly on Tues., July 10, at home in Rockport. The son of the late Anne and Lt. Col. Walter S. Falk, Jr., he is survived by wife, Rhonda; and sons, Nathan and Benjamin, Rockport; daughter, Sheryl, Houston; sister, Patricia, Bridgeport, CT; and an enormous extended family. Born Sept. 20, 1945, in Philadelphia, PA, Walter graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 1967 and attended graduate school there, but when his Ph.D. advisor lost his dissertation, Falk crossed Guadalupe St. and began painting and selling watercolors on the sidewalk. An original "Drag vendor", Falk pushed to establish a dedicated marketplace for artists and craftspeople to sell their work. These efforts led, in 1982, to the West 23rd St. People's Renaissance Market, and eventually, closing one block permanently to vehicles. In the 1970s, Falk was on the Board of Directors of the University YMCA. He helped institutionalize Eeyore's Birthday Party, to this day an "iconic" Austin celebration, and emceed the event for many years. For over 30 years, Walter and Rhonda hosted an annual Super Bowl party, with exotic barbeque and an amazing potluck spread. With Falk, a noted gourmand and co-founder of the Hendrik van Loon Eating Society, a meal was always a Feast; a party always an Extravaganza. When the Falks sold their home in Austin, it was on the condition that the party still be held there every January, and so it is. Walter Falk's distinctive artistic style combines dreamlike watercolor, acrylic, or oil scenes and vividly inked human figures, seemingly caught in mid-gesture, with brief, poetic titles. He sold nearly 40,000 original works in his lifetime, an achievement friends believe is unequalled. His daily work on the Drag, in all seasons and weather, made him a keen human observer, contributing to his artistic reach even as it challenged him materially. Walter loved beauty, and sacrificed much for his art. He enjoyed travel, visiting Mexico, Canada, Europe, and South America. With his open countenance, booming voice and warm camaraderie, Falk was a mentor and hero to friends' sons and daughters, and to hundreds of University students. He relished life, and stayed true to himself throughout his too-brief span. A funeral service will be held this Sunday, 2:30 p.m., at the Methodist Church, Main St., Rockport. An Austin memorial service will be held in the near future. An on-line guest book is available at http://www. legacy.com/Statesman/Obituaries.asp. In lieu of flowers, contributions towards his sons' educations may be made through Youth Emergency Service, Inc., PO Box 13549, Austin, TX 78711; or a gift given to any charity supporting the arts or the environment.

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

Published by Austin American-Statesman on Jul. 14, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Walter Falk

Sponsored by tuckfoot.

53 Entries

Gail Marlow

August 10, 2025

I bought a painting of his - a piece from the Escape of the Flowers series - in 1982, while an undergrad at UT. It was extraordinary! I saw it from halfway down the drag and it pulled me in like an extremely colorful black hole. The attraction was so intense I would not be surprised if passersby heard loud sucking sounds. I framed it in a thin, fuschia frame and it was magnificent. It hung in every apartment I rented or house I owned. For several periods of my life, the piece acted as therapy, greeting me exuberantly every morning. I mean, how can one feel blue in the face of of all that enchanting color and hypnotizing movement? The buoyancy and mystique of this piece never faded; it was just as magnificent in 2013 as it was in 1982. It disappeared on my move out of Texas to another state. I like to think it was attached to TX and simply could not bear to leave it.
Walter's work inspired me to begin watercoloring again, which I had not done since I was a child. I still use vivid color in my work, frequently on Crescent 300 mat board, which he was using in 1982. I employed both of these in a series of costume renderings for the stage while still a student at UT. Later, these led to several design gigs. I think more the vivid colors and daring, in your face artistry, alá Walter, than for their use conveying character traits for the stage. While I went on to study science, receiving a PhD and becoming a professor, I have taken painting up again and I still hear Walter's guidance and edification. I am quite sure I am not the only person he influenced in this, or similar, ways. I'd like to think he is still with us in this way.

Barbara Peyton

September 20, 2024

Lindsey Pollock

July 6, 2024

Lindsey Pollock

July 6, 2024

Lindsey Pollock

July 6, 2024

Such a talented artist - so much joy to share! THANK YOU!

Lindsey Pollock

July 6, 2024

Lindsey Pollock

July 6, 2024

Lindsey Pollock

July 6, 2024

These called to me today when I saw them for sale. Sooooo happy to welcome them into my home. Know that your dad's talent and influence to make people happy lives on!

as Einstein on a lightray is drawn to the world of the artists imagination

Casey B

June 8, 2024

I was so pleased to find this beautiful piece of art in a local sale. I wanted to research the artist and came across this obituary. I was sorry to read that Mr. Falk has passed but wanted to share that his work continues to inspire and will be so happy to have this in my home now that I know more about his life.

Jane Disborough

February 21, 2022

Met Mr Falk at Pecan Street Festival, such a genuine person. Don´t remember the year, but I looked for him every year until I stopped going. I ended up with four watercolors, framed them, and will never part with them. It´s been fifteen years since his passing, but I just found this page; better late than never.

Bridget Navoda

July 18, 2020

The Woman with Everything -- Beyond the Orinoco" - May 2000 continues to delight me to this day; several different homes, but always hanging where I see it every day. Met Falk at the Pecan Street Festival and remember the exchange well. Love. Amazing individual, gifted artist. Rest in peace ...

Carlton Godbold

July 16, 2019

I was walking down my hallway yesterday evening and was drawn to a Falk painting that hangs there (along with several other treasured Falks that chronicle my life experience). "As the poet pauses for inspiration," dec. 13, 1996. So, this message is actually for Terry: THANKS BUNCHES, BUDDY!

Leslie Allen

February 16, 2017

I came across one of his original paintings and fell in love. It is named As The Lady Enjoys Tropical Birding. Sept. 17, 2004.

Marcus Rhem

January 26, 2017

My wife Sara and I purchased a number of original watercolors at the Texas Renaissance Festival between 1986 and 1995. He always pulled a couple beers out of his personal stash, and we would shoot the bull for half our or so. We moved to Michigan in 1996. He would always insist we come to his Super Bowl party, and one year we had made plans to do so, but they fell through. We regret not going. Remember him fondly. Marc Rhem

May 25, 2016

Love,
Maura

Super Bowl 2005, I think; me just back from AK and happy to see friends!

Mariann Wizard

December 26, 2013

It's nice to see people still actively remembering Falk. He was a good friend as well as wonderful artist and family man. Glad to see also that the Guest Book is a permanent one, thanks; I know who to hug for this one!
I have just a couple of Falk's paintings now, but they are very special and have honored places in my home.
Love always to Rhonda, Nathaniel, Benjamin, and Sheryl.

Mark Kunik

December 24, 2013

I went to the University in the early 80s. I bought my first art pieces from Mr. Falk. I continue to enjoy them. They proudly hang in my office, bringing me joy and good memories. He brought art and happiness to so many.
Rest in peace.
Mark

Carrie Larson

October 2, 2013

this is very belated but as i was going through some things the other day i realized that a painting he did of me at my grandmas bar "where the christmas lights never go out" was gone...but his character and lust for life will never be forgotten...he did live his life to the fullest and left a mark on many people

Margaret

March 12, 2012

I just read of Terry's passing. I will miss Terry. He was warm, sensitive, and elegant. I knew Terry when he was just beginning to paint his watercolor miniatures. He seemed as much poet as artist. He once said to me " Life is replete with possibilities." -love that. My deepest sympathies to his wife and children.

Carlton Godbold

December 19, 2010

This is a very belated post as I have just now learned of Terry's passing. I met Falk on the Drag in the seventies, where he was selling his paintings. We also traded fire agates for awhile. I bought his paintings one or two at a time, starting when the fifteen bucks one cost left me with five $ in my pocket. I must have a hundred of 'em, from '77 to the latest I got when he visited Lubbock in 2006. We were the best of friends and I just loved him. We drank plenty of beer together and told more than plenty tall tales, at which endeavor he almost always got the best of me. Bless you Rhonda and my sincere sympathies.

Scott Maron

November 5, 2010

I went to school in Houston 1986-1990. During that time I went to several Renaissance Festivals and purchased three watercolors from Mr. Falk. Over the years, they have never lost their appeal to me and everyone comments on how much they like them. I searched the Internet several times to thank Mr. Falk for his art, but never found him until today. Sadly, it was his obituary. If family or friends read this, know that his art has travelled far and wide and touched many lives. God Bless

Ken (Skip) W. Carter

March 9, 2010

Terry and I were college roommates (5 bedroom house shared by very interesting people) in Austin during the 1969-1971 period.

Terry invested enormous time and intellectual energy in his political science graduate studies, but he could not, and would not, deny the artist that inhabited his soul.

I have know many people who create beautiful pieces of art; I've not meet anyone who comes close to having the heart and spirit of an artist, as did Terry.

I have several photos that I took of Terry during that period of time. I was would pleased to share them members of Terry's family.

Charles Jones

September 29, 2009

I first met Mr. Falk in the early 80's or at an event at what was then the ACAA, Austin Contemporary Arts Association in the 70's. The old memory is a bit foggy these days. He and I were purely artistic acquaintances, but I always enjoyed his super abundance of personality.

Today I was googling him to see if I could find out what he was up to and found this instead. To say that I am sorry that that personality no longer beams so brightly for us all to share, would be the understatement of understatements.

Sallie Babb-Gutierrez

July 7, 2009

I met Falk and his wife in Sanderson at Falkfest a few years ago. My mother, Paris Galvan who runs El Gavilan Bar, introduced us. I was driving to San Antonio and heard the news about his sudden passing...I immediately pulled over and called my mother to give her the sad news. She was very saddened by his loss. She has several pieces of his work and speaks of him fondly. Falk was an extraordinary man who shared my interest in rocks. Falkfest continues and his presence will be missed. My sincere sympathies to his family.

Jim Aldridge

May 24, 2009

I first met Falk while a graduate student at UT in the late 70s. His art really spoke to me, especially his Einstein series and some Bergerac. He was a warm, original, and energetic presence. I will miss him.

Tiffany Cox

April 8, 2009

I first met Falk at the Pecan Street Festival in 2004 & I immediately fell in love with his entire presence! His work speaks my language & his energy reflects the story of my soul... Over the next 3 years, I purchased 2 pieces each year at the festival. When I left Austin in 2007, I was sad I'd never made it to Falkfest, but hoped to one day partake in the festivities. I hope this event still goes on, because I'm sure he drops whatever he's doing to make a grand appearance :) I am sad he's no longer with us, but feel so fortunate to have met him & experienced his beauty. Much Love & Boundless Blessings to his Family & Friends...

Laura Heymann

June 30, 2008

"One day, fed up with hell, she simply up and left." - Falk, Nov. 16, 2002. It hangs in my office, right next to my desk and makes me remember my free-spiritedness. Though I met him for only a brief moment, many will never know what a tremendous loss this is.

Frances Morey

May 28, 2008

Rhonda, and friends of Walter: I have come up with a unique memorial to Falk, whose opinions and ideas about politics and issues of the day were always right on and usually colorful--I have made up a "handle" to use when I blog on the internet.

The User Name I made up to sign off on a number of sites to which I add pithy comments is "BalconesFalk." I smile in memory of our many wide ranging discussions at Scholtz Garten every time I use it. He was a fine friend, exceptionally intelligent, with a well developed sense of humor. I think he would approve.

George And Celeste Saliga

May 27, 2008

I was so devastated to find out the Falk was no longer with us. Unfortunately I just found out this past week 5/25/2008 as my wife Celeste was surfing the net and came across the notice. We were so schocked and dissapointed that we could not contain ourselves. We both loved Terry, Rhonda and the boys and looked forward to their many visits back home to Indiana. I first met Terry in the late 80's through his sweet wife Rhonda who was my wife's dearest friend from Clark High School in Whiting,Indiana. There are so many awsome memories throughout the years of our adventures I could write a short story. Well I guess it can't end here, lets see: Greek Town-Chicago-Parthenon restaurant Halsted St,The Cubs & Wrigley Field, Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders Clark St, Geno's Pizza, Those were the named places. But Terry could find an obscure off the wall place and turn it into a new adventure that became an annual event! The Falk squeezed every bit of joy he could in every situation. One such time was was when we lost my van. It was the northside of Chicago after another Cubbie win! Followed by dinning and drink! Were ready to come home no van? What happened? Well I had to call my wife to give her the bad news she had to gather us from another fine mess. About a hour and 20 min past I look at Terry he looks at me, we moved it, we just lost it and started rolling on the sidewalk laughing our butts off. That very second my wife and brother-in-law pulls up. Needless to say we both should of ended up in the dog house, but the Falk has his ways? Terry could take the simple things in life and prove that those were the best! A simple meal became a banquet. Terry added so much value to our lives in so many other ways, his wit his humor and oh his stories. He was so much more than his paintings but glad to own many. Rhonda I want you and the boys to know that our thoughts and our prayers are with you and will never stop! Celeste and I were honored to part of Terry and your lives. We look forward to many more adventures with you and the boys in the future. God Bless and the deepest sympathy.

Robert Baker

August 10, 2007

Dear Rhonda and Family,
I am very sorry to find out that Falk is no longer with us and I am sorry about your loss. I had the pleasure of visiting with Falk at the Market from time to time in the early 80's and I am the proud owner of one of his water color's "The Duel". He never seemed to have a bad day and I was always inspired with his attitude and tales of Mexico. He made the world a better place. God Speed Faulk.

Laura Wisdom

August 6, 2007

It has been difficult to even try to think of what to write about Falk. For the past 23 years he has been a vibrant source of color through his paintings, his stories and his writings and his person. He lived life as he captured it through his art and words and speech. He showed me how to see life through rainbow colored glasses and how to live. Thank you Falk, your influence and freindship will be missed, though it is my goal to continue to practice the principles you lived by. Eat, drink and be merry!

Alec Harris

July 21, 2007

The world has lost another great soul. I only knew Terry in short bursts, mostly in the 80's and early 90's, and being around him was like being with one of your own brothers. One you loved to be around, that is. At the root of his wit, humor, and sarcasm was a pure camaraderie- if one deserved it & most did- that made you feel so at ease & appreciated. I lost a kindred spirit of his in 89, much like him in intelligence & academic accomplishment- my Dad- and all I can say is that as time goes on it doesn't really get easier, just different. You lose the physical touches, but the memories are always alive. Both lived life with pure zeal, and their impressions upon me are as strong today as they were in the past. Lucky for me, they will remain that way forever in the future. Terry, you were a great person, friend, stranger, and above all, human. Adios mi amigo.

Ana Pomar

July 21, 2007

The rainbow has lost one of its colors. It will never shine quite as brightly again.

Terry brought joy, laughter and adventurous tales everywhere he went. His light will be missed profoundly.

My love goes out to my friend Rhonda and her wonderful boys. Thank you for sharing Terry with us.

Ana and Javi

Chuck Foote

July 21, 2007

I've enjoyed Falk's company many times over the years. I will miss Falk everytime I go to Old Pecan Street Festivals, when I walk the drag, and definately at the Super Bowl parties. He was bigger than life and will be remembered as long as those of us who knew him are alive and beyond thru his art.
I bought and gave away over a hundred Falks over the years and am sorry I didn't buy and keep more. Thought there would always be time for more acquisitions and more chances to buy him beers at Pecan St and I will miss being rapt as Falk relates his latest adventure or addition to the Empire. I will miss Terry like I miss Roland DeNoie. Nearly every day and deeply. I always thought Falk would be in this world.
My profound sympathies to you Ronda and Nate and Ben and Sheryl.

Jinny Lang Smith

July 19, 2007

Dear Rhonda, I am so very very sorry for your loss. It is hard to imagine one of you without the other. I was on the Vending Commission/Renaissance Market Commission way back in 1977 when Terry was making it all happen. What a mouth! what brain! and then he met you - what a lucky guy! Just like all of us who were lucky enough to live the Austin life for a wonderful while with you both. Take care. OX Jinny

Cass Hook

July 17, 2007

I met Falk in 1984, and I always appreciated the interest and support he had for my wife Scout's art. Falk was a great friend and I'm sure interest in his art will grow in years to come.

Mike Labinski

July 17, 2007

Since learning of this last week, I have spent much time reflecting on the 23 years that I knew Terry. While I had not had the pleasure of spending time with him in the last several years, my early years in Austin were so profoundly touched by my time with Terry. I would not be the person I am today had it not been for the likes of him and another dear departed friend, Roland. I raise a glass high to the both of you... not to grieve for your passing, but to rejoice in the life shared!

Brian Peterson

July 17, 2007

Falk was a fixture on the drag for so many years many thought he invented vending there. He had a great countenance and was friends with everyone. He is a shining example of what made Austin so special and unique back then.

I mourn his passing but also find joy in that his family will carry his spirit in a world that is largely missing his special charm.

So long and thanks for spreading joy and mirth while you were here.

Philip Goetz

July 16, 2007

I helped stoke the BBQ pit at 6am for Falk's superbowl party 4 years in a row. In 2006 I videotaped FalkFest in Alpine, TX.

Emma Lou Linn

July 15, 2007

I was very sorry to hear about Walter Falk. He and I worked together to get the dedicated space down on the drag and also he was one of the first artists who helped with the Pecan Street Festival. I always looked forward to running into him and having alot of fun and great stories. Emma Lou Linn

Mary and Sunshine Edgecomb

July 15, 2007

Rhonda, the memorial is happening right now(3:oo pm). Our hearts are with you now and always. Terry, you and the boys were remembered in church this morning during the prayers of the people. God bless all of you, Love, Sunshine and Mary

Julie and Charles Lumsden

July 15, 2007

Dear Rhonda and Family
You have our deepest sympathy and prayers at this time of great loss for all.
Julie and Charles Lumsden

Pauline Jacobson

July 15, 2007

I just met Walter a few years ago, a fellow artist with a booth at the Pecan Street festival, but he made a very big impression on me right away with his beautiful paintings and colorful personality. I saw him several times after that at art shows, and I feel very fortunate to have purchased one of his paintings. His friendly spirit will be truly missed and I will never go to another Pecan Street without thinking of him.

Bicycle Bill Averbach

July 15, 2007

My sympathy goes out to Rhonda and the kids. I remember the "old days" in Austin on the drag and then in Rockport at the bike shop.

Peggy Schaffner

July 15, 2007

Very sorry to hear of your loss. Sheryl, thoughts are with you and your family.

Darren

July 14, 2007

I had the fortune to cross paths with Falk (I never knew his first name) at his booth at the Galveston and Houston art shows 3 or 4 times over that past 10 years. From just the few of times I was around him, I could see that he indeed did enjoy life and shared that passion with everyone he met. I bought a handful of his painting the first time I ever visited his booth. His paintings will always be a reminder to me of him and his spirit. He will be missed.

DeAnna Williamson

July 14, 2007

My deepest sympathies to Walter Falk's family.
I've been a collector and admirer of the man and his work for many years and count myself lucky to be one of those people he would recognize on sight at an art show.
His storytelling and his wonderful spirit will be missed. His beauty and genius will live on in his work.

Steve Russell

July 14, 2007

I got thrown in jail for anti-war activity while taking Terry's freshman government class, causing me to miss an exam. He had me tell the story of my civil disobedience in return for an A. I am a proud owner of a Falk and...wow...he could throw a party. I'll miss him.

Frances Morey

July 14, 2007

I hope to see Terry soon in the last photos Alan Pogue took of him, reportedly dancing up a storm at the Longhorn Saloon on Burnet Rd. He always seemed to be getting a kick out of life, laughing a lot and making others laugh, too.
I mourn his passing. For Rhonda, his family, and all his countless friends, my sympathy is with you.

Walter S. Falk III

Mariann Wizard

July 14, 2007

The obituary doesn't mention that Walter Falk was the unchallenged jalapeno-esting champion of Long Island, among his many more colorful exploits. I am told the Sunday, 7/15/07, Houston Chronicle will carry a somewhat livelier version of his life story. It will be many years yet before all of the stories are told! He was an extraordinary person, and he will be greatly missed.

Shannon Landa-Henderson

July 14, 2007

Dear Rhonda,

I am so sorry to hear about Terry's death. I'll remember him always from the drag, and I am sorry I never bought any of his art work. It would be nice keepsake of him. There are wonderful things to be remembered about him.

Shannon Landa-Henderson

Jackie Davis

July 14, 2007

My deepest and heartfelt sympathies. Austin would not be Austin if it weren't for Falk- thank you for keeping it weird.

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