Mr. Gianforte was my English teacher at Athena in the late 1990s. I remember him well, and I remember him fondly. I wrote an essay on Leo Tolstoy’s book Anna Karenina for Mr. Gianforte’s class. I don’t remember specifically his comments on that essay, but I remember how they made me feel. I felt encouraged, supported, and proud of my efforts. My mother died that same year, and I’ve carried with me the kindness he expressed as I navigated the experience. He was a wonderful human.
Mr. G was the reason I became an English major and my favorite teacher of all time. I was looking him up to spell his last name correctly so I can write about why I want to be a teacher. Rest In Peace Mr. G…. You changed so many lives.
Mr. G, you will always be my favorite teacher. It’s been 20 years since your amazing English class & I’m so sorry to find out that you have passed on. I still remember your instructions to us, your fun way of stating things…you made Athena a fun place to be. Thank you for helping to make my study abroad dreams possible. You were a class act & the world needs more teachers like you were! Peace & comfort to your family.
Mr G, I will never forget the positive guiding influence you were in my life. Few people possess the ability to impact those around them so deeply, and in such an enduring manner. You helped me through some of the greatest challenges I faced growing up. I’ll never forget you. All of the calm and wise advice you gave me will pass to my boys. All my best wishes and love to your family.
Carl had a profound influence on our son that carried beyond High School and College. It is not often that someone can impact the future of a student, but it is obvious that Carl was that person. The world was a much better place when Carl was in it. His missed and thought of often.
You and I will keep company together and watch over those we left behind, whispering love and comfort and encouragement for them to go on and seek life and love
The world is a poorer place without you in it. You brought light and love and laughter…now the light is dimmer, the love less, the laughter not as often
Steve, the love you and Carl shared spilled over on everyone you met. No one could have asked for better friends than the two of you. Carl was the heart, you are the soul. I know how lost you feel. How could you not? There are no words that can lessen your sadness. Keep comfort in the love you shared and keep moving forward. Love and Friendship always, Helen
Carl, you were my best friend. Steve was the other. Without you I would not have survived the years. I don’t know how a world without you in it will survive. I love the two of you. I will try so hard to be sure Steve doesn’t feel lost with out you just as you two tried to keep me from being lost. 28 years…..13 without Terry. You will be missed. All my love , Helen
Steve, So sorry to hear of your profound and untimely loss. Carl was a wonderful person and will be fondly remembered by so many. May you find the peace that only comes with time and remembering all the good that Carl brought into this world. God bless.
Steve, I am so sorry for your loss of Carl. He was a true gentleman and made a great partner. I am happy that you both found each other and enjoyed your 38 years together. Tom Brooks
Mr. Gianforte will always be in my thoughts. You were able to reach and connect with me when I was going through a rough period in my life. I don’t think I could have met a better person who was also an awesome teacher that made me want to learn. Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher and great motivator. You will live on forever in our hearts.
Mr. G, you were one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. We’ll never forget your sweet inspiration….and I’m still using my color enhancers to this day! Condolences to the family and may you rest in peace.
Carl, You were one of the first to welcome me when I arrived at Hoover Drive, 35 years ago. I was thrilled when you invited me to design/teach lessons with you. What a magical experience! You were so intelligent, creative, well-spoken & interesting. I loved watching you interact with students. My thoughts are with Steve & your entire family. I will never forget you.
Mr. Gianforte was the epitome of what a great teacher should be. He had a caring and gentle nature and inspired others to be better than they thought they could be. The world lost a great man. May he rest in peace, and my condolences to his family.
Carl was a remarkable human being. He was kind and sincere. When you spoke to Carl, he listened with an intensity that left you feeling every word you shared was precious to him. I was his friend and colleague. As a teacher, students respected him, and he respected them. He was so soft spoken, yet when he whispered a directive to his students, the room silenced immediately. He made this world a nicer place in which to live.
It’s been over ten years since I was in Mr. Gianforte’s class in high school, and I still think of him often. He was one of the best teachers I ever had, and such a strong, positive influence on my life. I still quote him now, when I have to use “color enhancers” or “hold my paper thusly.” I’ll never forget how he helped me build up my confidence during a time that was very difficult for me.
Thanks for everything, Mr. G. You’re the best. We’ll miss you.
We are grateful that our son had the good fortune of Mr. Gianforte as a High School Instructor and friend providing such a positive influence through his life.
Nearly 40 years of friendship…so many laughs, so many fun times together, so many dear memories that I treasure more than ever. I have lost my dearest friend. Carl touched my heart and soul. I will never be able to fill the hole in my heart that I now have.
Carl and I taught together at Athena for many years. After retirement,I was a sub for many of Carl’s classes. What a treat in was for me! It was in those classes that I really learned a lot about him as a teacher and as a human being. Carl’s students really respected and liked him. Not once did I hear a negative thing about him from the students(so rare these days) and they were always anxious to have him return.This says so much about him. Besides being creative, he was such a kind and patient man. So many people loved and respected him. He will be missed because he made an impact on so many lives.
Our sympathy and prayers to Mr. Gianforte’s family and loved ones. I did not know him well, I just know the positive influence he had on my son Jon-Claude when he most needed it. It is not often that a student stays close to his High School teacher, but with Mr. Gianforte it seems that most of his former students grew up to be his friends for life. I am grateful that Jon-Claude had the good fortune to have Mr. Gianforte not only as his instructor, but his friend.
Mr. Gianforte, was my 10th grade english teacher and he was my favorite and the best teacher I ever had. Teachers have a powerful place in our lives, and I was lucky to have Mr. Gianforte be apart of my high school experience (which we all know can be difficult). He was thoughtful and patience and I always felt he cared about his students. Thank you Mr Gianforte, my thoughts and prayers go with you and your family.
It was my honor to have taught at Athena with Carl. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a wonderful man and will always live in the hearts of the thousands of people with whom he shared his gentle touch.
I remember Carl fondly. He was a kind and caring teacher and colleague.I have not seen him in so very many years but I am sure he touched and was touched by all who new him.
I met Carl nearly 40 years ago and had the priviledge of working with him at Greece Athena. He was a wonderful, caring, and kind person. My 3 children all had him as a teacher and loved him. “Mr. G” was truly a master teacher, who earned the love and respect of his students. I remember his quiet demeanor and sense of humor; I can only picture him smiling. My deepest condolences.
There’s one more angel in heaven
There’s one more star in the sky
Carl we’ll never forget you
It’s tough but we’re gonna get by
There is one less place at our table
There’s one more tear in my eye
But Carl the things that you stood for like truth and light never die
When I think of your last great battle a lump comes to my throat
His body may be past its peak
But his soul’s in paradise
I have so many great memories in Mr. Gianforte’s class! I still laugh when I think about how he used to tell us to “create schism (pronounced with a soft sh)” in our papers. For years I actually thought that was how you pronounced the word! Thanks, Mr. G. I’ll also never forget how he would hand out Werther’s hard caramel candies before our essay exams, and tell us it was for “sweet inspiration.” What an amazing teacher and person, and what an incredible impression he left on all of us!
The world has lost one of the greatest educators ever! I am honored to call Carl a colleague and always enjoyed our interactions while spending time at Athena HS. Listening to students talk about their love for him and his teaching style was one thing I will never forget. He was one of the most kind and caring people I have ever come in contact with. I will always remember my first day as a teacher coming into Athena, and how he went out of his way to introduce himself and welcome me…..he cared about everyone…he really did. You will never be forgotten…
Our world has lost one of its true “good guys”. Carl was a gift to anyone he came in contact with. Any student that was fortunate enough to be able to sit in his classroom was truly blessed. His gentle demeanor made learning so easy for them. If you ever had the opportunity to poke your face into his classroom you saw nothing but smiling faces eager to learn what ever Carl had decided for the day – and always a smile from Carl. He was a true “treasure” to Greece Athena. He was a “giant” of man and a privilege to have in our faculty. God speed old friend and Thank You!
Mr. Gianforte was my 10th grade English teacher at Athena. I have very fond memories of his peaceful demeanor in the classroom and of the great video projects and debates he had us do! He was a very memorable teacher and someone to whom I aspire now in my own classroom. I am sorry to hear such a wonderful man has passed away.
I was always impressed at school with Carl’s calm demeanor in what was often perceived by others as chaos with a short leash. No matter the situation or atmosphere, his professionalism and gentle nature was reassuring to his students and others. As a professional colleague whose teaching was always of the highest standards and where no one ever had anything but good to say of the man, I liked him very much and counted him as a friend. We have lost yet another of the “good ones” that we shall all remember as having added something to our lives. It was a pleasure and an honor to have known and worked with you.
I have very fond memories of Carl. He was my 10th grade teacher at Athena. He was one of the best teachers I had and a very graceful man. My condolences go out to his friends and family.
Dearest Steve, We are saddened beyond words to lose Carl. Our entire family is poorer without him. His respect, attention, and love have been vital in our lives, and we will carry his memory with us forever. You are in our hearts. Remember you are not alone.
Carl and I were friends at Aquinas, class of 1969.We hadn’t talked in all those years but I remember him as a very nice guy.From reading some of the other tributes I can see he maintained his character attributes all through his life. Looking through the old yearbook signings takes me back to some very happy times. God bless Carl and his family and I’ll remember him and all of you in my prayers…Steve
Carl and I were colleagues at Athena for many years. My fondest memory of him is when I accompanied students with disabilities to his classroom to sell snacks. Carl always announced “Our Food Cart friends are here. Reach deep into your pockets.” Many students told me how much they respected, admired, and learned from Carl.
Steve, words cannot express the sadness I feel. As we all know Carl was a very special individual, a true gentleman. Please remember friends are here for you. All my love, Gail
Mr. Gianforte was my English teacher at Athena in the late 1990s. I remember him well, and I remember him fondly. I wrote an essay on Leo Tolstoy’s book Anna Karenina for Mr. Gianforte’s class. I don’t remember specifically his comments on that essay, but I remember how they made me feel. I felt encouraged, supported, and proud of my efforts. My mother died that same year, and I’ve carried with me the kindness he expressed as I navigated the experience. He was a wonderful human.
Mr. G was the reason I became an English major and my favorite teacher of all time. I was looking him up to spell his last name correctly so I can write about why I want to be a teacher. Rest In Peace Mr. G…. You changed so many lives.
Mr. G, you will always be my favorite teacher. It’s been 20 years since your amazing English class & I’m so sorry to find out that you have passed on. I still remember your instructions to us, your fun way of stating things…you made Athena a fun place to be. Thank you for helping to make my study abroad dreams possible. You were a class act & the world needs more teachers like you were! Peace & comfort to your family.
Mr G, I will never forget the positive guiding influence you were in my life. Few people possess the ability to impact those around them so deeply, and in such an enduring manner. You helped me through some of the greatest challenges I faced growing up. I’ll never forget you. All of the calm and wise advice you gave me will pass to my boys. All my best wishes and love to your family.
Carl had a profound influence on our son that carried beyond High School and College. It is not often that someone can impact the future of a student, but it is obvious that Carl was that person. The world was a much better place when Carl was in it. His missed and thought of often.
You and I will keep company together and watch over those we left behind, whispering love and comfort and encouragement for them to go on and seek life and love
The world is a poorer place without you in it. You brought light and love and laughter…now the light is dimmer, the love less, the laughter not as often
Steve, the love you and Carl shared spilled over on everyone you met. No one could have asked for better friends than the two of you. Carl was the heart, you are the soul. I know how lost you feel. How could you not? There are no words that can lessen your sadness. Keep comfort in the love you shared and keep moving forward. Love and Friendship always, Helen
Carl, you were my best friend. Steve was the other. Without you I would not have survived the years. I don’t know how a world without you in it will survive. I love the two of you. I will try so hard to be sure Steve doesn’t feel lost with out you just as you two tried to keep me from being lost. 28 years…..13 without Terry. You will be missed. All my love , Helen
Steve, So sorry to hear of your profound and untimely loss. Carl was a wonderful person and will be fondly remembered by so many. May you find the peace that only comes with time and remembering all the good that Carl brought into this world. God bless.
Steve, I am so sorry for your loss of Carl. He was a true gentleman and made a great partner. I am happy that you both found each other and enjoyed your 38 years together. Tom Brooks
It was an honor to cross paths with Carl. My deepest condolences.
Mr. Gianforte will always be in my thoughts. You were able to reach and connect with me when I was going through a rough period in my life. I don’t think I could have met a better person who was also an awesome teacher that made me want to learn. Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher and great motivator. You will live on forever in our hearts.
Carol–I was very sorry to hear that your brother had died. My sincere sympathy to you and your family for your great loss.
Mr. G, you were one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. We’ll never forget your sweet inspiration….and I’m still using my color enhancers to this day! Condolences to the family and may you rest in peace.
Carl, You were one of the first to welcome me when I arrived at Hoover Drive, 35 years ago. I was thrilled when you invited me to design/teach lessons with you. What a magical experience! You were so intelligent, creative, well-spoken & interesting. I loved watching you interact with students. My thoughts are with Steve & your entire family. I will never forget you.
Mr. Gianforte was the epitome of what a great teacher should be. He had a caring and gentle nature and inspired others to be better than they thought they could be. The world lost a great man. May he rest in peace, and my condolences to his family.
Carl was a remarkable human being. He was kind and sincere. When you spoke to Carl, he listened with an intensity that left you feeling every word you shared was precious to him. I was his friend and colleague. As a teacher, students respected him, and he respected them. He was so soft spoken, yet when he whispered a directive to his students, the room silenced immediately. He made this world a nicer place in which to live.
It’s been over ten years since I was in Mr. Gianforte’s class in high school, and I still think of him often. He was one of the best teachers I ever had, and such a strong, positive influence on my life. I still quote him now, when I have to use “color enhancers” or “hold my paper thusly.” I’ll never forget how he helped me build up my confidence during a time that was very difficult for me.
Thanks for everything, Mr. G. You’re the best. We’ll miss you.
We are grateful that our son had the good fortune of Mr. Gianforte as a High School Instructor and friend providing such a positive influence through his life.
Nearly 40 years of friendship…so many laughs, so many fun times together, so many dear memories that I treasure more than ever. I have lost my dearest friend. Carl touched my heart and soul. I will never be able to fill the hole in my heart that I now have.
He was a man who touched many lives, including mine. I would be lucky to have half of the impact on the world he had. He will be missed.
Carl was an amazing man. We will remember him always because he has forever touched our hearts and lives!
Carl and I taught together at Athena for many years. After retirement,I was a sub for many of Carl’s classes. What a treat in was for me! It was in those classes that I really learned a lot about him as a teacher and as a human being. Carl’s students really respected and liked him. Not once did I hear a negative thing about him from the students(so rare these days) and they were always anxious to have him return.This says so much about him. Besides being creative, he was such a kind and patient man. So many people loved and respected him. He will be missed because he made an impact on so many lives.
Our sympathy and prayers to Mr. Gianforte’s family and loved ones. I did not know him well, I just know the positive influence he had on my son Jon-Claude when he most needed it. It is not often that a student stays close to his High School teacher, but with Mr. Gianforte it seems that most of his former students grew up to be his friends for life. I am grateful that Jon-Claude had the good fortune to have Mr. Gianforte not only as his instructor, but his friend.
Mr. Gianforte, was my 10th grade english teacher and he was my favorite and the best teacher I ever had. Teachers have a powerful place in our lives, and I was lucky to have Mr. Gianforte be apart of my high school experience (which we all know can be difficult). He was thoughtful and patience and I always felt he cared about his students. Thank you Mr Gianforte, my thoughts and prayers go with you and your family.
It was my honor to have taught at Athena with Carl. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a wonderful man and will always live in the hearts of the thousands of people with whom he shared his gentle touch.
I remember Carl fondly. He was a kind and caring teacher and colleague.I have not seen him in so very many years but I am sure he touched and was touched by all who new him.
I met Carl nearly 40 years ago and had the priviledge of working with him at Greece Athena. He was a wonderful, caring, and kind person. My 3 children all had him as a teacher and loved him. “Mr. G” was truly a master teacher, who earned the love and respect of his students. I remember his quiet demeanor and sense of humor; I can only picture him smiling. My deepest condolences.
There’s one more angel in heaven
There’s one more star in the sky
Carl we’ll never forget you
It’s tough but we’re gonna get by
There is one less place at our table
There’s one more tear in my eye
But Carl the things that you stood for like truth and light never die
When I think of your last great battle a lump comes to my throat
His body may be past its peak
But his soul’s in paradise
I have so many great memories in Mr. Gianforte’s class! I still laugh when I think about how he used to tell us to “create schism (pronounced with a soft sh)” in our papers. For years I actually thought that was how you pronounced the word! Thanks, Mr. G. I’ll also never forget how he would hand out Werther’s hard caramel candies before our essay exams, and tell us it was for “sweet inspiration.” What an amazing teacher and person, and what an incredible impression he left on all of us!
I have left Stephen and Carl’s family a private message.
The world has lost one of the greatest educators ever! I am honored to call Carl a colleague and always enjoyed our interactions while spending time at Athena HS. Listening to students talk about their love for him and his teaching style was one thing I will never forget. He was one of the most kind and caring people I have ever come in contact with. I will always remember my first day as a teacher coming into Athena, and how he went out of his way to introduce himself and welcome me…..he cared about everyone…he really did. You will never be forgotten…
Some teachers you never forget and he was one of them. The world lost a great teacher and a great person.
Our world has lost one of its true “good guys”. Carl was a gift to anyone he came in contact with. Any student that was fortunate enough to be able to sit in his classroom was truly blessed. His gentle demeanor made learning so easy for them. If you ever had the opportunity to poke your face into his classroom you saw nothing but smiling faces eager to learn what ever Carl had decided for the day – and always a smile from Carl. He was a true “treasure” to Greece Athena. He was a “giant” of man and a privilege to have in our faculty. God speed old friend and Thank You!
Mr. Gianforte was my 10th grade English teacher at Athena. I have very fond memories of his peaceful demeanor in the classroom and of the great video projects and debates he had us do! He was a very memorable teacher and someone to whom I aspire now in my own classroom. I am sorry to hear such a wonderful man has passed away.
I was always impressed at school with Carl’s calm demeanor in what was often perceived by others as chaos with a short leash. No matter the situation or atmosphere, his professionalism and gentle nature was reassuring to his students and others. As a professional colleague whose teaching was always of the highest standards and where no one ever had anything but good to say of the man, I liked him very much and counted him as a friend. We have lost yet another of the “good ones” that we shall all remember as having added something to our lives. It was a pleasure and an honor to have known and worked with you.
I have very fond memories of Carl. He was my 10th grade teacher at Athena. He was one of the best teachers I had and a very graceful man. My condolences go out to his friends and family.
Dearest Steve, We are saddened beyond words to lose Carl. Our entire family is poorer without him. His respect, attention, and love have been vital in our lives, and we will carry his memory with us forever. You are in our hearts. Remember you are not alone.
Carl and I were friends at Aquinas, class of 1969.We hadn’t talked in all those years but I remember him as a very nice guy.From reading some of the other tributes I can see he maintained his character attributes all through his life. Looking through the old yearbook signings takes me back to some very happy times. God bless Carl and his family and I’ll remember him and all of you in my prayers…Steve
Carl and I were colleagues at Athena for many years. My fondest memory of him is when I accompanied students with disabilities to his classroom to sell snacks. Carl always announced “Our Food Cart friends are here. Reach deep into your pockets.” Many students told me how much they respected, admired, and learned from Carl.
Steve, words cannot express the sadness I feel. As we all know Carl was a very special individual, a true gentleman. Please remember friends are here for you. All my love, Gail
Additional Tribute Link: http://youtu.be/bmOqvLXMGuk