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Paul Isaacs Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Paul Isaacs
July 20, 2010
I am very surprised to hear of Paul's death so late. We worked together in ASBDA as fellow band directors in Minnesota. Please accept my late sympathy.
Sincerely,
Lee Kjesbo
Emily Swanson
June 18, 2010
Mr. Isaacs pushed us, his students, to excel. Moreover, he emphasized the relationship above the instruction. Yes, it was important that we do our best, but he also made us feel like we were the most important part of the equation and not how we performed. He was a teacher of mine that made me feel special. There were times in middle school when life was rough for me: my family was grieving a loss of our own, my best friend transferred to another school. Band class was a class I looked forward to because Mr. Isaacs’ bright optimism shone through the darkness. His contagious spirit and good will were traits of his I fondly remember. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Katy Keller
May 27, 2010
Mr. Isaacs was my middle school band teacher, and his creative sense of humor and musical talent made band the best class of the day. His example of kindness and patience sticks with me still. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
Stephanie Harves
May 25, 2010
Dear Rhonda and family,
I am utterly devastated to have learned of your loss. Paul (Mr. Isaacs to me) was a true mentor for me in junior high school.
I played clarinet in the band at MA and took lessons with him over the summer (in the mid 80s), where he not only taught me how to choose my reeds properly but also to appreciate the music of the masters. Mr. Isaacs gave me my first introduction to Benny Goodman, and I've never been the same since. I never listen to Benny without thinking of dear Mr. Isaacs. Some of my fondest memories of my clarinet-playing-days are playing duets with him during music lessons. He made me feel like a star and taught me how to play with *style* (or at least attempted to - I was no master, to be sure). More than anything else, he taught me to have confidence in myself, as someone who had very little at the time. He stepped into my life at a fragile time of adolescence and gave me a sense of self-worth.
Not only was he a brilliant music teacher and mentor, but he was also a kind and caring human being. It feels redundant to add this comment now, in light of the many comments posted here already, but I'll say it nevertheless.
On January 28th, 1986 I was sitting in Mr. Isaacs' band class when we were interrupted over the intercom and notified that the Space Shuttle Challenger had exploded, resulting in the death of seven astronauts, including Christa McAuliffe, the first school teacher to go into space. We were all in shock when we heard the news. I remember looking at Mr. Isaacs, holding his head in his hands, and wondering whether he had known any of the astronauts personally. He expressed such deep emotion for their loss, shedding tears, that, as a 14 year old, I couldn't imagine otherwise. I wanted to walk to the front of the room and hug him - I suspect we all did. He moved us in times of sorrow as much as he moved us in times of joy. I feel blessed to have known him.
LInda Tobias
May 23, 2010
Rhonda keeping you and your family in my thoguhts and prayers. By reading the tributes it sounds like your husband was a very special person.
Linda (Graves) Tobias
David Lindmark
May 23, 2010
Since my retirement from MA I've missed visiting with Paul at combined campus functions. I enjoyed the warmth of his friendship and keenness of his wit. One of my children and three of my grandchildren were blessed to have him as a music instructor.
Dan Fields
May 22, 2010
Rhonda and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Courage Center
May 21, 2010
On behalf of the staff at Courage Center, please accept our condolences on the loss of Paul. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Judy Blomgren
May 20, 2010
Rhonda and family:
First of all, I was taken aback with the news of Paul's illness and passing. Even though we haven't been in touch for far too long, the wonderful memories of our times together in Mankato are still fresh. The impact he has left among his students at MA will live on in the hearts of each student he worked with. He played his Clarinet beautifully, and gave his students the assurance that music hath charms to soothe the hurting heart. It takes a special talent to work with Middle School aged children in the band room. Bravo Paul for your work with countless children, and for being a "Mr. Holland" to so many. My heart goes out to my dear friend Rhonda and the rest of the family.
Judy Blomgren
Champlin Park High School Orchestra Director
Alec Rosin
May 20, 2010
He'd better be the band conductor in heaven, because there surely can't be a more suitable person for the job. I'm truly sad that I'll never get to see Mr. Isaacs again, he was one of those great people that you'll never forget in a lifetime of friends and acquaintances. I had him for band in 5th-8th grade, and I never saw anything but a smile on his face, which is astonishing considering how annoying we middle schoolers were. He motivated us to do our best, and he was just fantastic in every way possible. R.I.P.
John Clark
May 20, 2010
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Paul Isaacs, although I did not know him personally, I knew him through his brother Phil with whom I have worked with for many years. Our thought and prayers are with you during this time.
Noah Keller
May 20, 2010
He fostered a love of music in many, including myself, and during those confusing middle-school years that was an incredibly comforting and necessary development. He maintained high expectations, not just for musical proficiency, but also for respect and teamwork. Thank you, Mr. Isaacs; rest in peace.
Jennifer Uren (Naumann)
May 20, 2010
I had Mr. Isaacs as a band teacher at the South Campus Fall '83 - Spring '85. A precious memory I have is when he wrote a song for his wife, had the band learn it, and it was performed as a surprise for her. That has stuck with me all these years.
Julie & Matt Johnson
May 20, 2010
My husband and I are both teaching colleagues of Paul's at Minnehaha. I also had Mr. Isaacs as my middle school band director, and I vividly remember that I wasn't the best or most studious flute player in the world, but he was always very patient and kind with me as he daily encouraged me to try my best and keep at it - all with his trademark humor. That positive attitude, humor, and love for music has carried with me into my adult life, and I have fun memories of my band teacher that wouldn't quit on me. Also, my husband has played in several music ensembles with Paul over the years at school, and I know has thoroughly enjoyed those experiences.
My family now goes to church with Bethany, Erick, and Asher, and we have enjoyed getting to know them - Asher, Paul's baby grandson, is such a little sweetheart. What a blessing that Paul got to spend time with him during the first few months of Asher's life.
Blessings, peace, and comfort to the Isaacs family during this sad time of loss. He will be missed by many.
John Ostman
May 20, 2010
I'm not sure how to express the feelings of sadness and gratitude at the same time. Paul (Mr. Isaacs) brought Gods love directly into the lives of students everyday and I am grateful for the impact he had on my life while at Minnehaha and the many years since. My prayers for peace are with the Isaacs family. What a great man and what a wonderful legacy he has left.
Jill Nelson
May 20, 2010
To the whole Isaacs family,
Paul touched hundreds of children and their parents thru his love of music and teaching. His unique sense of humor always won the children over and will make us smile for years to come. There are few who take the opportunity in life to make each day count for others, however, Paul was one of those people. May God grant you the peace that only HE can give, knowing that your loved one is out of pain and in total peace. May God bless you as you mourn,
Sincerely, Jill and Rick Nelson (Emily, Brian, and Tim)
May 20, 2010
My sister Judy called me yesterday with the news of Paul's death, we both found it so hard to hear. Paul sat next to Judy in the clarinet section at Mankato East and I was lucky enough to go to school with Paul and Phil from grade school until graduation. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Linda Utzinger Ward
May 19, 2010
I was shocked to see in the paper that Paul had passed away. I played clarinet next to him in high school. My prayers for peace and comfort for all his family at his passing.
Deb (Patrick) Wheeler
Dawn Gelking
May 19, 2010
I was so sad to hear of Paul's passing. I sat next to him during countless GSW rehearsals and always knew what a privilege that was. He loved to tell stories about his family. His talents and insights will be greatly missed.
God Bless you in this time of sorrow.
Dawn Gelking
former member of Grand Symphonic Winds
Jim Erickson
May 19, 2010
Although Paul and I were on different campuses at Minnehaha, he was one of the colleagues that I valued most highly, a favorite teacher of my daughter, and a loving parent of three wonderful daughters that I had the privilege to teach. His life touched many, and he will be missed.
Mike, Rachel and Emma Kioski
May 19, 2010
We're sorry to hear of your loss and you are in our prayers.
Joe Leech
May 19, 2010
My dear friend Paul is part pastor, part evangelist and, of course, part teacher.
Fond memories of high school, church outings, camp, college days, collaborating on movies, and what has come to be known as "Isaacs humor," have been filling my thoughts since I heard of Paul's passing. We were groomsmen in each other's weddings. Paul was instrumental in bringing me to the Lord. Paul Isaacs is my best friend.
My heart breaks for Rhonda and his girls, for his dad, Earl, and his family, for his students through the years, and for his long list of dear friends. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
God bless you, Paul. You are dearly missed on earth, but you live on in our hearts. I look forward to spending eternity in heaven with you and our friend, Jesus. After we hug, you can show me around!
Arlen and Kay Skorr
May 19, 2010
Dear Rhonda and Family: We are very sorry to hear about your loss. We will always have special memories of you during your days as a student at MSU and your visits to our home in Mankato. We pray that you and your family will be given strength during this very sad time.
Jason Cutshall
May 19, 2010
Mr. Isaacs was a great teacher and a very positive influence on my life. He demonstrated a love for music which sparked passion in my own life, in the end not for playing music, but for pursuing ministry. I appreciate him a great deal and even years after having him as a teacher his example stood out in my memories.
Thank you Mr. Isaacs,
May 19, 2010
We are so sad. We remember so well our first days at MA when Sarah started as a 9th grader - Rhonda and Paul so warmly welcomed us as new volleyball parents. Sitting in the stands with you watching our girls play are treasured memories. I often found myself watching Paul as he cheered on Rachel - he was so proud, you could just see the love he had for her. We fondly remember his trademark cheer : "GOOO RACHEL!!!" Our love to you Rhonda, Rachel, and the sisters we weren't fortunate to know in our time together.
Troy and Karen Lucht
Mary Blankers
May 19, 2010
Dear Rhonda and Family, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May it help to know that friends from Jasper are thinking of you during this time. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Mary & Jerry Blankers (Williamson)
Dave and Nancy Crichton
May 19, 2010
Paul Isaacs will be remembered as one of the most wonderful teachers anyone could ever have. I was shocked to learn that he was terminally ill. He showed compassion and interest in each individual student. He always showed the utmost respect for everyone and was so highly respected. He was a great musician, friend and family person. My daughter had him as a clarinet teacher many many years ago and loved his class; our granddaughter had him years later for music and now many years later was affected by his passing. He touched more lives than we will ever know. My sincere condolonces to his family.
Jonathan Woolsey
May 19, 2010
Mr. Isaacs was a wonderful music teacher and positive influence on so many lives. I was a student of his only briefly, but his passion for music and helping others realize their potential was truly remarkable. My sincere prayers and sympathies to his family at this difficult time.
Mark Dundas
May 18, 2010
I was absolutely shocked to hear that Paul had died. I have wonderful memories of going through elementary, jr high, and senior high with Paul.
I had always hoped to renew our friendship but that will have to wait. I will see you on the other side of the pearly gates!
Greg Anderson
May 18, 2010
Mr. Isaacs falls into the little-populated category of teachers who really made a difference to me. While I only had a short stint in band 25 years ago in the 5th grade with him, I took two of his General Music classes later in junior high. I credit him with awakening an appreciation of music that has stayed with me since then.
His teaching style and respect for his students made us want to do our best, and everyone came out a winner because of that. Mr. Isaacs made learning enjoyable, and he made his students feel important.
May 18, 2010
I remember Paul's happiness about his recent CD, the design for the cover art and how helpful the recording studio was. I am thankful he brought the love of music to my children. Each time his music fills our house, we will remember, in gratitude, the gifts he gave.
|Mayr Boros, Lizzy and Cat Potts
Anna Martin (Kiel)
May 18, 2010
Mr. Isaacs had a fabulous sense of humor and a gentle way about him that made his classroom a sanctuary in the day. We wanted to work hard for him and he rewarded us with wonderful music and plenty of musings. I am so saddened to hear of our loss, his presence will be sorely missed - he was incredibly special and was extremely talented at what he did.
Angela Thompson
May 18, 2010
Mr. Isaacs had the patience of Job (and a great sense of humor), teaching Middle School Band (usually scheduled right after gym class!). Despite the unique challenges of teaching that age demographic, he was always patient, kind, and encouraging--never harsh or dismissive. As a result of his kind teaching, I loved playing in band and in many ways this gave me confidence to pursue other endeavors later in life. He was a gift to this world and his influence far-reaching. To his family, thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
May 18, 2010
I remember going to see the play "Our Town" at Mankato East High School and Paul and Phil were involved.
We have enjoyed the CD with Paul and Diana and Ken. It is very relaxing and brings back memories.
It was so fun to watch the boys grow up and enjoy the musical talents of the family.
Stephen and Helen Neir (North Mankato, MN)
Bill and Diane Rowe
May 18, 2010
We remember his humor and the little stunts and skits at concerts. His easy relationship w/ students and his patience in working with kids and parents was a model for our children. One of my fondest memories was watching our son's face as Paul changed into a colonial outfit to direct patriotic songs. Our son was proud to be in that band. Godspeed to you Paul.
Pauline Carlson
May 18, 2010
Paul was my friend from childhood in Mankato. We attended the same church, and went through Sunday School, Confirmation, and attended Bible Camp together. He had a wonderful, quirky sense of humor, and loved to tease me, yet we could talk about our faith and serious topics as well. I knew that he was always there for me if I needed to talk to someone. I'm thankful for our friendship.
My prayers are with Rhonda and the girls, as well as his dad, Earl, and siblings Jim, Diana, Colleen, and Phil. May God give you His comfort and peace in this time of grief. Please know that there are many people praying for you.
Dan Vierow
May 18, 2010
Mr. Isaacs played a significant role in teaching me to love music and to come to the realization that music could communicate so many things that words just cannot express. Some of my favorite memories in middle school took place in that band room. I may not play the trumpet anymore, but Paul's influence is evident every time I pick up a guitar or listen to music. He definitely had an impact on my life.
Douville Family
May 17, 2010
Mr. Isaacs was well loved as a music teacher, but more importantly as an excellent role model, by our kids when they attended Minnehaha. His friendship and sense of humor made a lasting impact. Our thoughts and prayers are with Paul and his family.
Dan, Kathee, Jeff and Ellen
Karen and John Holine
May 17, 2010
Dear Rhonda and girls,
Our hearts are aching as we take in this news. We so enjoyed our dinners with you through the years and I was always moved by Paul's tender love for you all. Such a special sense of humor Paul had. We pray that you feel the stong arms of our Lord holding you and comforting you.
With our love.
Keith and Mara Thompson
May 17, 2010
To the Isaacs family,
Paul possessed many gifts, including patience, musical skill, sense of humor, and compassion. We believe and have discussed many times how well these gifts were matched to the role of Middle School Band director. Paul's encouraging words and actions helped our son find a place at MA as a new 6th grader. Paul's advice and training and friendship will stay with our son forever. Paul had an wonderful impact on the lives of so many students. We were blessed to share part of our lives and our son's education with Paul Isaacs. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Erik and Rhea Nelson
May 17, 2010
Rhonda, Alyssa, Bethany and Rachel,
We are heartbroken at the news of your loss. Our memories of Paul, his caring heart and his wonderful sense of humor will be with us always.
May 17, 2010
Your family has meant so much to me. Paul you added joy and challenge to my teaching-you loved the students and we had a bond. Each person in your family means something special to me. Paul, I will miss you so much.
Janet Higginbotham
May 17, 2010
Each person in your family has meant something special to me. You brought joy, love and a challenge to excel-we had a bond. I will miss you terribly-as will my family.
Alexandra Howes
May 17, 2010
I'll never forget learning "Simon Says" from the best! Not to mention the incredible three years I spent as a student in Band learning from such an incredible teacher. My condolences to the Isaacs Family.
Kirk Nelson
May 17, 2010
Rhonda, Alyssa, Bethany, and Rachael-
My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family as well as the community for loosing such a special person. If nothing else I hope you can find comfort in knowing he is at peace now, playing clarinet in Heaven in the chair next to Benny Goodman.
Carmen Haugen
May 17, 2010
Paul was an amazing person who touched so many lives. He had a great sense of humor. We will miss him, but always remember him. Much love to you all. Steve, Carmen, Annie, Erik and Sarah Haugen
Jeff Siegfried
May 17, 2010
Tough to hear. All my love to the Isaacs family. I can still see that baton flying to the floor, catching most everyone in his class off guard. He had such a great sense of showmanship. I still remember him walking into the gym in full Pink Panther costume to direct the song one spring. He was a great example of putting one's all into one's role in life. I think of him often and still will.
Carl & Mary Reeck
May 17, 2010
Rhonda, Bethany, Rachael and Alyssa~
We are so sorry to here about Paul. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. In this time of grieving, always remember, Paul was loved and so are you. Peace be with you.
SandraLee Luchsinger
May 17, 2010
Rhonda & family,
You all are in our thoughts & prayers during your time of sorrow. But to know that Paul is at peace and pain free is a great comfort to all of us. His love will continue through Rhonda, his girls (Eric) and Asher.
Sandra, Emma & Adam Luchsinger
Brian and Erica Eide
May 17, 2010
Our prayers to Mr. Isaacs' family and friends.
Scott Todhunter
May 17, 2010
Thank you Mr. Isaacs for teaching my children to love music. You had a big impact on their lives and you will be greatly missed. I know you are with Jesus now and you are no longer in pain. Enjoy your rest and your legacy will live on through all the kids you have taught over the years.
Darryl Ponder
May 17, 2010
Mr. Isaacs, I don't understand how such a good man can be taken so early in life. God must want the truly good people close at hand. You had such a positive impact on so many families, ours included. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Our sincerest thanks for all you have done!
Matt and Mark will miss Rabbi I.
Melissa Krieger
May 17, 2010
To the Isaacs family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all, and although I will miss Paul terribly, I am glad he is finally at peace. Paul was a great friend and mentor and I value all the time I spent with him in Grand Symphonic Winds. He was an integral member of the clarinet section both musically and personally. I will miss our post rehearsal conversations and double checking his bow tie was straight before a concert.
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