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Welcome to the memorial page for

John Elwin Huber

December 15, 1940 ~ January 10, 2015 (age 74) 74 Years Old
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Message from Christie
March 19, 2015 8:07 PM

I am so sad to hear that Mr. Huber passed away! He was one of my favorite professors when I attended FHSU! God blessing an prayers to all his family!
Message from Judy Blauer
January 26, 2015 11:18 AM

I'm so sorry to hear of John's passing.  We spent several years serving as adjudicators for clinics...most often in northwestern Ks. in early November thru middle Feb. when there was nearly always a blizzard.  Even though I was panic stricken with the slipping and sliding we laughed every mile.
John gave every once of energy he had to his friends, colleagues, students and I'm sure his family.
I send my belated but most sincere sympathy.
Judy Blauer, Hutchinson, Ks.
Message from Barb & Ken Neuhauser
January 25, 2015 4:29 PM

John will always be a part of Fort Hays.   Though we didn't know him well, he was well known by many on campus from all areas and fields.   Always on the go, as everyone has noted, but always friendly to all.   When we came to FHSU in 1980, the disciplines seemed to mix more--and we saw him at many occasions.  Ken was teaching Geology in Albertson, and I'm sure they crossed paths many times en route to the Union and on campus from Malloy, Albertson, and Tomanek.  If only we could have bottled his energy and joie de vivre..  We are glad to have known him, and will miss him.
Message from Leona Schwarz Dickman
January 24, 2015 1:07 AM

Dear Barb & family,
   My sincere condolences on John's passing.  As a freshman at FHSU I was happy to learn that someone from a small town in Western Kansas could be a professor at a college.  I will always remember his smile and greeting and his fast pace, walking and talking.  Years later, as a private music teacher, he would come back to W. KS to judge our piano students.  It was so great visiting with him.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Message from Sharon Kriss
January 22, 2015 12:06 PM

John was not only my teacher, but a wonderful mentor and friend. I first met Mr. Huber when he came to Colby High School and I began taking piano from him. He always made piano and practicing fun while challenging me to higher goals. Later when I returned to Colby to teach piano, he became a mentor, judge of my students, and then finally a very dear friend. One of the most difficult things for me was finally calling him John rather than Mr. Huber. What a joy and inspiration he was to many. When he came to judge our NWKS piano clinic, I will never forget him jumping up on the stage rather than taking the stairs or walking calmly around to the stage entrance as most judges would have. His personality always was shining and he will be missed. My sincere sympathy goes to his family.
Sincerely,
Sharon Kriss
Message from Deanne Langness
January 21, 2015 10:10 AM

John Huber provided amazing energy, honest guidance, and sincere encouragement with kindness and exuberance.  He was not only a teacher and mentor but also a friend.  Words seem inadequate to express the sadness I feel about Mr. Huber.  As you grieve, know that I am remembering you and honoring the memory of John.
Deanne Langness
Band Director, Goodland Schools
Message from Joyce Eisenhour
January 15, 2015 6:42 PM

Barbara and family, I was so sorry to hear of John's death.  It doesn't seem possible that such an energetic, enthusiastic and accomplished musician could be gone.  We started college together as music majors and our class became close friends almost immediately.  He was my accompanist all four years, and we spent many hours studying together.  In fact after I was married, he and several others always spent the night before a Music History test in an all-night review in our apartment at Lewis Field.  What memories we have; and we all did well on the tests as well!  John will certainly be missed by many, but I am sure he is busy making music in heaven just as enthusiastically as he did at Fort Hays.10
Message from Dawne Leiker
January 15, 2015 4:35 PM

Driven, curious, intelligent, quick-witted and entirely invested in his students, John was a delight to know. As my first FHSU piano clinician, he gave me an instant appreciation of the creative exploration of music.
I was privileged to write a Hays Daily News story about him when he retired from teaching.
His quote at the end of the story says it all:
"I love it," he said of teaching. "I love sharing with the students, but I prefer to get them to share with me... My greatest joy is when they want to share with me."
Message from Virginia L. Downing, former Pres. of KMTA
January 15, 2015 3:33 PM

To John's family, I send my heartfelt sympathy. He was my music colleague and friend.  We shared work, offices, and conventions for KMTA for a period of years. I was always amazed by his positive approach to situations as well as his uncommon goodness toward his fellow human beings.  I really think that is what made his teaching so effective.  As I thought back over my memories of him, I realized that he was always on the move, helping, teaching, assisting as the need arose.  My life is richer for knowing him.  The joy is that some day we shall see him again. Take comfort in that.
Message from Sarah Turner
January 15, 2015 3:14 PM

Mr. Huber was my adviser at FHSU, an amazing teacher, and a wonderful person.  The world was a little brighter thanks to him and he will be sorely missed by many.  Words cannot express what he meant to the many many lives he touched.  My thoughts and prayers are with the Huber family.
Message from Mark Schnose
January 15, 2015 2:22 AM

So sorry to hear of John's passing.  I have many fond memories of him during my time at Fort Hays.  One of my favorites is of his description of tension and release in music.
Message from Kim Marshall-Mitchell
January 14, 2015 10:42 PM

I had the pleasure of taking lessons from Mr. Huber during my high school days (early-mid 70s).  His excitement was contagious.  He had endless patience for me in cramming theory my prior instructors had let slip by, so that when contest time came, I would be prepared.  His endless energy cracked me up - but I so respected him and loved him as an instructor.  Over the years, I have continued to have fond memories of the lesson times spent in his 2nd floor- corner office in Malloy.  My condolences - he was a wonderfully talented man - I'm privileged to have known and studied under him.
Message from Bridget Gish
January 14, 2015 8:32 PM

Mr. Huber was one of my mentors that helped mold my views on music education.  He taught me to believe in your students and set high expectations, to provide the instruction to get them there, to only accept the best from myself, and to do what I believed was right for my students.  He knew how to push his students to be better than they realized was possible.  A lot of the musical skills he taught in theory and keyboard harmony I use every day.  Most importantly, he truly cared about his students and saw in them who they might become.  I can only hope to have as much of an impact on my students as he did on me.  I am very grateful to have had him as a teacher and adviser.  He will be missed.  My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Message from Dale and Donna Atkeson
January 14, 2015 5:35 PM

Barbara,  We were so sorry to read of John's passing.  We were older classmates of John's while in college.  He became a college professor at Fort Hays while Dale's mother was the secretary (Mrs. A) there.  John was a favorite of hers and ours.
Please accept our condolences.
Dale and Donna Atkeson
Message from Joyce Horyna Harting
January 14, 2015 1:51 PM

Dear Barb and Family,

Mr. Huber was my first year theory teacher at FHSU....He was so enthusiastic, never in one place for more than a second, never walked (he ran!) and a fantastic teacher!  I was lucky to have his instruction.   My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Message from Bruce Frahm
January 14, 2015 10:03 AM

Most of my  5th grade starting trombone lessons were from John. I enjoyed singing in barbershop chorus with his dad. I still play trombone - 3 concerts/year. Thank you John for starting me on a great avocation.
Message from Marvin J. Cochran
January 14, 2015 10:03 AM

John Huber and family.....Was sorry to hear of your loss.  John and I met in the FHKSU dorm in 68 and became good friends over the next four years.  John was a good person who never knew the word "no".  After graduation in 62 both of our worlds separated...John went to Michigan and I  taught in Michigan for one year then went to Wichita State U. for my masters....ended up in Prineville OR where I am today.  We  will all miss John.

Message from Don Palmer
January 14, 2015 9:42 AM

My deepest condolences to the Huber family. I knew John thru my dad Harold Palmer many years ago. He always had a smile on his face and was a workaholic when it came time for Band Camp. He will be truly missed!
Message from Lea (Anderson) Holste
January 14, 2015 8:49 AM

Happy memories of time spent in Malloy Hall include the intense enthusiasm exhibited by Mr. Huber. I loved his perpetual "happy". Mr. Huber ' s group piano classes have been life savers for me.
Message from JR & Marleigh Martinez
January 13, 2015 3:04 PM

Barbra and Huber Family,
Our deepest condolences to your family.  Mr. Huber taught all of us lucky enough to have had him as a teacher, mentor and family that there is no reason to stop doing what you love.  I could go on and on but i won't, thank you for sharing Mr. Huber with all of us and may he rest in peace.
Message from Abby Hammeke
January 13, 2015 1:30 PM

Mr. Huber was a wonderful teacher who influenced so many people during his time at FHSU. I didn't realize how much of an impact he had until I worked at the FHSU Alumni Center, calling former music graduates. The first question they always asked was if Mr. Huber was still teaching there followed by fun, crazy memories of him. He did more for their music education and career than anyone could ever imagine. I had him for Aural Skills and of course for "Huber Time," to get some extra practice in and some questions answered. He epitomized what it was to be a teacher and a great one at that. If ever there was someone who was definitely in the right career, it was him. Rest in peace Mr. Huber. You will be greatly missed and remembered.
Message from Vern Fryberger
January 13, 2015 1:21 PM

On my first visit to FHSU I couldn't keep up with Dr. Huber as he flew up and down the stairs. I had no idea that he would be so influentual in my future. He was a man who was truly dedicated and genuinely cared about the success of his students. I know that the success of my students is a direct result of Dr. Hubers efforts and I sincerely thank him for his caring during my years at FHSU. My sincerest condolences.
Vern Fryberger
Director of Choral Activities at Barton CCC
Message from Seth Bogart
January 13, 2015 12:20 PM

BEADGCF FCGDAEB, I will always remember this Thanks Mr. Huber.
Message from Brett Musser
January 13, 2015 12:17 PM

Dear Barb,
My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Mr. Huber was there at crucial moments in so many of our lives, and not just musical ones. He was so professional, so enthusiastic, and had a deep and forgiving understanding of human nature.
Message from Wade Richard
January 13, 2015 11:36 AM

John, or Mr. Huber as he was known to me was definitely one on my favorite instructors at FHSU.  I admired his energy and passion for his job.  He truly cared for each student and was never one to not have time for one-on-one instruction.  I am saddened by this news and offer prayers of comfort for his family.  Student 1989-1993.
Message from Kevin Fross
January 13, 2015 11:07 AM

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. He had a personality that you would always remember him by. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Don & Barbara Reilley
January 13, 2015 10:49 AM

We send our sympathy and prayers for all of your family. Although we haven't seen each other for a few years John Elwin was a very talented & gifted man. Donnie's health is so we can't attend the service but please know you will be in our thoughts. FHSU was truly blessed to have him in their system. Am sure his memory will be in many many lives he touched.
Message from Diana Fowler
January 13, 2015 10:08 AM

So sorry to hear of your loss. Many childhood memories of John and his family. May God comfort you.
Message from Jeannette Evans Raynes
January 13, 2015 9:39 AM

It's hard to believe that Mr Huber is no longer flying up and down the stairs at FHSU! Everyone who knew him was challenged and changed for the better. Clint and I will keep you in our thoughts and prayers, Barb. The Lord is faithful and will be with you on these next steps of your journey with Him.
Message from Mark Turnquest
January 13, 2015 5:34 AM

I am so sorry to hear this. My condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Michele Flax
January 12, 2015 10:51 PM

Dearest Barb and family.  It is with great sadness that we send you our deepest sympathy.  John will forever be in our hearts as one of the kindest and truest human beings we have ever met.  Our time working with you both was such a great pleasure.  He will be so dearly missed from our community.  You are in our thoughts and prayers Barb.  John will surely be watching over you.
Sincerely,
Michele and Bill, Bildschon Haus of Windows
Message from Clay Vernon
January 12, 2015 10:36 PM

John Huber was an amazing man who always had time for his students. He taught the most difficult classes that I took in college. These classes gave me doubt as to whether being a musician was the best use of my life. While another teacher may have discouraged me from moving through these challenges, Mr. Huber always found time to help me.

His office hours were always filled with his other various responsibilities, but he would still pencil my name into his scheduler even if it was between lines. (He would notate "Clay - 5 min")

It is shocking to me that he was 74 because when I last saw him at KMEA five years ago he possessed the same youthful energy that he always had. It was an energy unique to him. Regrettably, only those who knew him will be able to remember it with the fondness I do now. His was the kind of energy that makes the world a good place, and helps us to move through its challenges.
Message from Jean North
January 12, 2015 9:38 PM

Mr. Huber will always be in my memory as one of the finest teachers I have ever had the privilege to know. He gave me piano lessons in high school and later as a music ed. student at FHSU. His energy and enthusiasm could not be matched! He was a very fine man and many were blessed by him.
Message from Susan Nelson
January 12, 2015 7:38 PM

Such a kind man who touched many lives and many musicians. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Susan Nelson,
Vocal Director Decatur Community High School
Oberlin
Message from Frances Gordon
January 12, 2015 7:12 PM

John was one of the first persons I met with when I applied for the job of Music Librarian in 1987.  After 2 years I became the Music Department office manager.I always enjoyed working with John, until I retired in 2004.  He was a super person.
Message from Mary Lee (Wilgers) Warner
January 12, 2015 6:02 PM

You and your family are in our prayers, Barb.  I was stunned to get this news from Alison Atkins.  I'll never forget the excitement we all felt when you and John got engaged.  The memory of it makes me smile--and I hope you can call up a lifetime of memories to bring you comfort in the difficult days ahead.

God bless,

Mary Lee
Message from Joseph Boley
January 12, 2015 5:25 PM

The Boley family (Darlene, Maggie, Mary and JoAnn) sadly send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Huber family. We have many fond memories of the past that will live in our minds forever.
Message from Nathan Fabrizius
January 12, 2015 5:14 PM

I studied piano with Mr. Huber while in high school, and later earned a music ed degree at FHSU.  He was the main reason I atttended FHSU.  I will always remember him as a master teacher.  He was a great role model for me as a young man, taught me countless lessons, both at the piano and in life.  I am forever grateful to him for the example he set, his challenge to me to go further than I thought I could, and most of all, for the strong music bond we shared at the piano.
Message from 2nd Shift Maint. Denso
January 12, 2015 3:16 PM

Derek, sorry for your loss.
Message from Darlene Cole
January 12, 2015 3:14 PM

I knew John from working at FHSU.  I have never met a person who was as consistently happy as he seemed to be.  John was always in a hurry, but never failed to give a glad wave or have a second for small talk.  He was an inspiration and will be missed.
Message from Tim Crowley
January 12, 2015 2:49 PM

John was a colleague I will always cherish. It was my privilege to teach theory in the department with him for seven years and to serve as his department chair for five of those years. He was chair of the search committee that brought me to FHSU now 15 years ago. Time flies. I always appreciated his wit, humor, and admired his dedication to our students – especially the selfless donation of his time to students outside of class. He was a valued counselor to many faculty members. He will long be remembered as part of a core group of legendary FHSU faculty members who led the department with a strong focus on music education through the 1970s into the 21st century. He was unique and students who matriculated from his courses into mine were well-prepared for the academic rigor required for the study of music theory and composition. It’s hard to believe that he is now gone. I’m glad our paths crossed for a small portion of his life and we had the opportunity to work and grow together. He will be greatly missed.
Message from Karl Pratt
January 12, 2015 2:14 PM

I first met Mr. Huber as a young piano student at multi-keyboard clinic in Colby, Kansas. He was so full of energy and a joy to work with. I will never forget how he counted us in, "one, two, twee..."! I thought it was the funniest thing ever!

I later attended FHSU as a music student and had the pleasure of being his student. Aural skills was one of the most difficult classes, but he was always willing to provide extra help. My "Huber Time," as it was lovingly coined by prior students, was often longer than the scheduled 10 mins, but it was "very fine" with him to be such. He touched the lives of many and will forever me missed.

My sincerest condolences to his family.

Karl Pratt
Message from Shelly (Wolf) New
January 12, 2015 1:58 PM

Mr. Huber was my first piano teacher and my favorite music professor at FHSU.  He was an inspiration to me as a musician and a human being, and he pushed me through some very rough times in my music education.  I am forever grateful to him as my mentor and teacher.  He has been a big part of forming me into the music educator that I am today.  I will miss Mr. Huber so very much!
Message from Joseph Perniciaro
January 12, 2015 12:44 PM

John was such a good colleague and human being.  I appreciated his guidance as I navigated my way through my early years at FHSU and his influence on music at FHSU, in Hays, and the state of Kansas can not be overstated.
God bless,
Joe Perniciaro
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