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Jack was my teacher during 11th and 12th grades at East High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. He taught English and Creative Writing. I was part of the Pencilings staff and to say he was a mentor is an understatement. A cultured man, Jack had an intense interest in the Japanese culture and spent seven years studying the Japanese Tea Ceremony. As his students were his top priority, he authored the first creative writing textbook in the U.S. He was the award-winning author of four published books of poetry, and I’m honored to have them in my library. He was named Poet of the Year in 1969 by the Utah Poetry Society for his collection of poems, Deep Song.
Jack, we corresponded through the years, and I saved each letter you sent. You were an inspiration to me during high school and in my adult life, encouraging me to embrace my creative awakening. I remember you once wrote me, “I look forward to your first,” and I was pleased to send you a copy of that book in 1996. Now there are more planned, and I’m confident you’ll be spiritually encouraging me and editing my work along the way. You remain forever in our hearts. Thank you for being my teacher.
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