Obituary for August E. Knoll

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For the past several years I've had the pleasure of playing alongside Auggie in the Timber City Band out of Maquoketa. He will be missed this next season. Auggie will always be remembered and from what I've read here he's touched many lives. My heart goes out to you and your family in this time of loss. With sympathy and prayers, Amy

I played in the Quad City Wind Ensemble with Augie. My prayers and my heart are with his family and friends. What a wonderful, special man he was with his great sense of humor and wide open grin! How terribly he will be missed! God bless you, Augie!

Augie and I shared a number of great times at ASBDA Conventions across the US. I always admired the sound of his bands and had the privilege of judging the Wheatland band at IHSMA state festival. He was an example for all of us, as a man of integrity.

Sharon and I were deeply saddened by the passing of August. Knowing him since 1960 at Wartburg College and being his roommate, we have kept in touch for many years and played at both of our daughters' weddings. He has touched many lives through his teaching, organist activities, and clinician work and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Mr. Knoll was my high school band director from 1994 to 1998. He also accompanied me on my first solo in church when I was 10 years old and was the organist at my wedding in 2000. I have never met anyone who was so passionate about their work. His music and teachings not only inspired me but countless others. His music and jolly laugh will be missed.

While I did not know him personally I know the family. I have had the great pleasure of knowing them for a number of years. I can only imagine what a great loss this is. I would like to say that the knoll family is one of the best families a person could have the great fortune in knowing. I wish to extend my condolences and best wishes. You are all in my prayers. I am so very sorry for your loss. Steve

Hello family of Aug, You have probably heard from many people of how Aug positively impacted their lives. He definitely did the same for me. Aug carted me and others around as high school musicians to many festivals and concerts. I owe much of my music appreciation and my appreciation of life to the experiences with him. He encouraged me to continue playing outside of Wheatland in the Tri-Cities Youth Symphony and in college. I went to the boundary waters with Aug along with my dad and Koenigs, Booms, Paulsons. He was a part of all of our families. I was quite sad to hear of his passing. He will be missed, but well remembered. I did attend the memorial in Wheatland. It made me feel good and I hope it made all of you feel good, too. I was too shy, though, to meet all of you. It is awkward for me, I'm afraid. You should know that his musical legacy is passing on, in part, through me. I am still playing my horn and guitar, and I have a son who has a very strong interest and appreciation for music and the trumpet. I think he gets that from me and I got that appreciation, in large measure from Aug. Please accept my sincere condolences. Yours Truly, Dean Ott

My deepest sympathy in the loss of a very fine man. He will truly be missed by all. The surrounding communities will miss his talents and sharing nature. He was truly a great man.

EVERYTHING I EVER NEEDED TO KNOW I LEARNED FROM MR. KNOLL…. That music is more than just the notes. It’s the feeling. It’s the story it tells and the emotion it evokes. It’s the history behind the song and the composer. That the whole really is the sum of its parts, and when we’re each working hard on our parts when it comes together, it will be amazing! That small schools can produce outstanding bands (when well directed) just as well as big schools can. That you can get people’s attention just as well by playing it softly, as you can by playing it loud. That a Sousa march is a great way to send the crowd out of a concert! That good sportsmanship wasn’t just on the basketball court. It was in the pep band, too, when you learned the opposing team’s fight song and played it with gusto – even if they were your arch rivals. That school wasn’t all about reading, writing and ‘rithmetic. It was about fine arts – band, vocal, art and drama. That these were truly the life lessons that would stay with us forever and help us appreciate the finer things in our world. That every performance is important – whether in a concert hall in Des Moines or in the gym in Wheatland. That life should be lived to its fullest each day; that we should not take those who have impacted our lives for granted; that we should tell them they have made a difference. For they can receive their Heavenly reward, before we are ready for them to go, and we might miss our chance to say to them how special they are and what a gift their presence in our lives has been. The music here in our community is a bit softer and quieter right now, but oh! what a joyful sound is ringing throughout Heaven. For Heaven has gained one of Earth’s great directors! Mary Daehn Shaull Wheatland Band Student 5th Grade Class of 1975

Knoll Family, My prayers and best wishes. August was a great friend and I will miss him dearly. I treasure my frequent visits with August here at St.Joseph's in DeWitt. Also, we shared a friendship with Betty Stodola of Ak. She was my music teacher in the semenary and a close friend of August. My prayers are with you. Fr. Bob Harness

My condolences to your family. Met augie at IBA and he gave me good advice for my first year teaching. Appreciated his willingness to talk to a newbie.

I remember Augie from when I was a new director at Stanwood-Mechanicsville, twenty some years ago. His bands were always wonderful - playing literature I have yet to play with my students! He was not only a great teacher and educator, he was an incredibly nice person. Augie provided a great musical experience for his students. He will be missed in so many ways! Sincerely, Pam De Boer

We loved listening to August play the piano and the organ. We always looked forward to receiving a card at Christmas time when he shared is life adventures. Our prayers our with you at this time.

Dear family of August - Our sincere sympathy to your family in the loss of Augie. We are members of St. James in Toronto where he played the piano once a month for us for years. We so enjoyed his beautiful music - I always asked him how he was able to "embellish" the hymns so. He said there was music for that, but I think he just could do it on his own. We will miss him - he was one of the "good guys". Most Sincerely, the Kedley's

Holy cow. By the time I read all of the terrific stories in the guestbook, I almost forgot what I wanted to say. I always wondered why Aug remained a teacher in a small town. With his talent, he could have taught at the collegiate or professional level. Having had four children receive his instruction, I realized long ago that he knew he would affect more lives in this capacity than all the accolades he undoubtedly would have received had he chosen a different path. You only need to read these pages to realize what an impact he had on so many. He was the only instructor I ever knew who followed "his kids" AFTER they graduated from high school and attended their concerts at college. I have been lucky enough to also have had Aug as my choir director, and I'm one of the lucky ones who got to hear him play that fantastic organ and piano at St. Paul's each Sunday. To say there is a gaping hole in our hearts is to touch the surface. I am looking forward to, and dreading Saturday. It will be a glorious memorial to an amazing man, but we will sing through our tears no matter what. Karen Proesch

Mr. Knoll was such an incredible mentor during my first years as a band director. He spent many hours helping me build my band program at Springville and always had time to offer advice on how to make the band better. I remember him telling me how important solo and ensemble was to the overall continuity of the band program and I have never forgotten that. To this day I make sure I have every band member take a solo or be involved in an ensemble at contest! He was a great man and I am so glad I had the honor to call him my friend. I will miss him greatly!

My deepest sympathies go to Mr. Knoll's family. He was my band teacher from 5th grade through graduation, and as many others have shared, he impacted my life in many ways. His passion and love for music was contagious. He believed in many who did not believe in themselves and made that band room a fun and safe place to be in. He was deeply respected by all of his students and it was apparent that he loved his job so much. This world has lost a great man, but I know that the angles and saints are singing a new song. Class of '89

Calamus-Wheatland H.S. class of '91. Was a member of the band and pep-band. Also attended St. Paul's church with Mr.Knoll. He was widely respected and great teacher.

My sincere sympathies to August's family. I had the pleasure of hearing his bands perform at IBA conventions and always left feeling inspired to take my teaching to the next level. Whenever I visited with Augie I felt better about myself and the possibilities life has to offer. He will be sorely missed as a musician and friend to many. Bobbi Garringer, band director

Aug was my band instructor through junior high and high school. He taught both of our own children. He was organist, choir director, and hand bell director par excellence at our home church -St. Paul's in Wheatland. Brent and Aug had ongoing conversations about politics (they were both quite similar in their views). His music and friendship were a vital and enriching part of our lives for over forty years. We mourn the loss of a great friend and teacher. We also celebrate his tremendous influence and talent. What a life well lived! Farewell friend. Wendy & Brent Blake

Dear Friends! Needless to say, I am shocked and very saddened to hear of August's passing. He was an Outstanding Bandmaster and a very dedicated member of IBARD, Iowa Bandmasters Association Retired Directors. He was always a proud member of the IBARD Band and willing to offer his services at the IBARD table at the IBA Conference. The last time I saw August was sitting at the table and visiting about things Band Directors talk about----Bands and Music. He will be greatly missed and I will always remember his participation in IBARD events. Best Regards and fond memories, Lee Nelson--IBARD Chair

Heaven has a new clarinetist and organist! My colleagues and I were so blessed to have known Augie! He was the gentlest and most talented man I have ever known. His teaching touched thousands of student musicians, their families and other teachers......his spirit lives on through them. Rest well my friend.....your earthly journey has ended....a new musical adventure in Heaven is just beginning! May your family take strength from your memory and your good works. God Bless! Michael J. Green Past President American School Band Directors Assoc.

My deepest sympathy to the Knoll family So many lives were touched by Mr. Knoll's muscial gift. My daughter had the honor and priviledge to be one of his students. Not only was he able to teach his students how to appreciate all kinds of music, but he also taught them how to apply those values to everyday life.

I feel very fortunate to have had Mr. Knoll as my high school band director from 1991-1995. He was a wonderful teacher who taught you that music was more than just notes on a page. He also taught that discipline and good work ethic in the band room can be applied to real life. Not only did I have Mr. Knoll as my band director, but also as a class sponsor. I remember him on our class trip having a blast on all the rollercoasters. He will be missed by many. My sympathies to his family.

Mr. Knoll was truly a giant, a gentle yet insistent giant in his field. The music education arena should take pause to note his subtle yet profound contributions. The "results- not excuses" slogan showed through his work. He truly was a man of his time; but still the traits of his kind are so very, very much needed yet today. The people he developed and shaped are a great testament- whether they followed a music career or otherwise. In the words of Dan Fogleberg, they are "a living legacy to the leader of the band." And as for those who likewise have shown great leadership and accomplishment in music education, they should remember the words of Isaac Newton when he said, "If I have seen farther than others it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants." We all miss you, Augie.

Dear Family of August Knoll, My sympathy on the passing of your beloved family member and my favorite teacher, Mr. August Knoll. Although I was a student of Mr. Knoll's over 35 years ago, I will never forget his dedication as a teacher. In my eighth grade journal, I wrote that I wanted to become a music teacher. When he became aware that I wanted to continue to study music beyond high school, he gave me many opportunities to grow in confidence as a musician and a person, even going as far as hauling a few of us every Saturday 30 miles back and forth to the Quad Cities for the Tri-City Orchestra rehearsals. His dedication to music and his students was a shining light that helped to fill our high school days with joy, and helped us to grow in confidence & enthusiasm. Being in band was one of the greatest highlights of my high school years. Even beyond high school and through the many years, even though my life has taken me to many places, we corresponded through Christmas letters, which was always a treasure to me. After being a music teacher myself, K-8, and then a private instructor, I decided to dedicate my time at home with my family, still volunteering as a church musician and a music minister for a charitable organization. Mr. Knoll was one of the finest teachers and persons that I have ever met. His "family" of students, myself included will always carry him in our hearts. Sincerely, Michele (Dierickx)Nanto Class of '75

After all the great things that have been said, whatever I say seems to be just a repeat. Unfortunatlly I couldn't make it to the service, but I want to send my thoughts and prayers to the Knoll family. Some of my best high school memories are of band or band events. Whether it be the concert at IBA in 1991 (and making that tape over and over and over again!) or the Peb Band Jam or just enjoying the basketball game. Auggie always treated us all the same, regardless of talent, we were all worth his time and effort. Many glasses will continue to be raised in his memory. We'll miss you!

So sorry for the loss of a very nice man. He has been our neighbor for the last 10 yrs. We will miss seeing him around the yard. May he rest in peace.

There are a ton of memories I have of Aug. Using the band room as a refuge from study hall, going to the first IBA with a picnic at Palisades-Kepler State Park afterwards, buses breaking down on the way to and from either the next IBA or was it the IMEA performance in Des Moines, playing in the rotunda of the Capitol, playing the Liberty Bell March because Aug was a huge Monty Python fan, watching a meteor shower at a Boom encampment in southern Colorado, and spending a lot of time at Boom's and getting to see a lot of Aug there in a setting other than school.

Aug will always be remembered for the huge impact he had on hundreds of kids who passed through his band room. He had a knack for getting the most out of kids while maintaining a friendly and supportive demeaner.

To the family & friends of August Knoll, I was sad to hear that Aug recently passed away. I was very lucky to have had the pleasure of working with him during my teaching years at Cal-Wheat. His mentorship helped me to grow as a musician and educator, and the positive impacts he made on me, the lives of his students, and on music education will be remembered with fond memories. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and the Cal-Wheat community at this time. With devotion and friendship, Shelly Devlin

Just heard the news. Condolences to his family and all those he touched. I know there were many! "I always think there is a band, kid!" Professor Harold Hill

I've known August for most of my life as a band director,choir director, and most of all, a friend. Two memories come quickly to mind from high school - one was Aug taking a bunch of us to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" and letting me direct the Pep Band on a Friday night home basketball game when I was a senior in 1974, twice! The first time I asked him to let me direct and the second time he asked me - wow, did I feel smart! He had the gift of making you feel special. As life went on he played for our wedding, and the funerals for both my husband Mike and my dad. Wednesday night choir practice was known as "therapy" for many of us, we laughed as much as we practiced. I loved it when he would laugh and say "geez"- we also knew when it was time to get serious and get to work! Thank you, Aug, for teaching me to love, learn, and appreciate music but mostly for the awesome gift of your friendship.Your faith and devotion to all you did are shining examples for everyone. We will go on singing as you would want, but putting on that choir robe every Sunday will never feel the same again. We'll remember the things you taught us, and your spirit will be there guiding us all. Rest well, dear friend, your work is done.

Augie has been our musician friend for many years. Our discussions about the performance, whether it be a QCSO concert or the middle school band he was judging, always helped us grow musically. He offered so much more than notes to his students and colleagues. We remember how his bands sounded so much like an organ, and rightly so. The emotion of music was his passion. His friendship was invaluable.

I feel extremely fortunate to have had August as a teacher, choir director and personal friend. I know he is in a better place ,but I will miss his warm sense of humor and his undying love of music. We are going to miss him terribly and I don't think the music program in our area will ever be the same without him. Thank you for giving us the gift of August. He was deeply loved and respected by all of us.

What could be said here that so many have not already said. Aug was one in a miliion person. He was a mentor, a teacher, fellow musician, yet most of all friend. What Amazes me the most about Aug was not his great knowledge of music but rather his ability to be a great friend no matter how far away one might be. Just look how a man in a small Town in Iowa has gotten so many responces from all over the country. Aug and I have had a lot of great times over the years. From Graduation To Bringing in the New Year in New Orleans in 99-2000. What a way to start the millinium. When the calls came in with the news that Our great friend had passed, I found it hard to be sad. Aug gave us a perfect example of how to live. He always did what he enjoyed in life. He had a job that he loved. If he wanted to visit friends in Germany he went. If he wanted to go camping in Wyoming he went. If he wanted to visit friends across the country he went. Even in passing Aug is still teaching us, be kind and considerate to others, and live lfie to the fullest. We have lost a great mentor and friend his wisdom and laughter will be missed.

Jerry and I have fond memories of visiting with Augie in our back yard under the gazebo after Wind Ensemble concerts. He will be greatly missed.

I direct band at Davenport West High School. Augie sometimes served as judge at both the Solo and Small Ensemble Contest we host and at Large Group Contest in Bettendorf. I was alway so excited to see his name on the Judging list. His comments were always right on the money, and he always conveyed enthusiasm about hearing the performance, even if the the level was lower. A fantastic music educator...he really understood what was really important...the kids. He will be missed.

Mr. Knoll was my organ teacher of three years, beginning in 2001. Though I didn't know him very long, he still has made a lasting impression on me. Because I play clarinet as well as organ, I was able to ask him technical questions about the clarinet as well as the organ. He was a wonderful teacher and friend. He will be sorely missed.

"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." B. Auerbach

To the family of August Knoll. The world is a much better place because of August. The lives he has touched through his passion of music will be felt forever. I set here with tears as I write this note knowing that someday we will meet again. God Bless you August.

"Music Expresses That Which Cannot Be Put Into Words And Cannot Be Kept Silent" How we shall miss this very endearing man! We met him through our son, Nathan, who worked with him until August's retirement. August was a wonderful mentor and role model for our son. I shall never forget his beautiful voice and his passion for music. We celebrated our birthdays together last year, and I am so glad that we did, as he shared many stories about his family, students,recent endeavors and his trip to Germany. He truly was an extraordinary man.

Thirty two years ago Mr. Knoll was the guest director of the massed band at the Iowa River Valley Conference band festival in Union, Iowa. The massed band was made up of "the rest of the students" that were not selected for the top band. In a few short hours of rehearsls, his teaching methods, materials, depth of knowledge and caring personality turned a group of lesser accomplished musicians into a band that sounded FANTASTIC! They stole the show that night at the concert with a truly remarkable performance. I was awestruck. For me, he set the standard for what I wanted to be able to do in my teaching career. We have been priviledged to know such a great musician, splendid teacher, and fantastic gentleman.

My deepest sympathy to Aug's family and many friends. I was in the Class of 1991 at Calamus-Wheatland and a member of St. Paul's Church in Wheatland. The influence this great man had on so many people is truly amazing. I feel priveledged to have been one of his many students who learned so much from him. I know that I am living a fuller and richer life because of the appreciation for music that Aug instilled in me. I am deeply saddened with the loss of my teacher and friend; but his memory will live on through the music he taught us all to embrace. God's blessings.

I was so sorry to hear of August's untimely death. August was one of the greatest students I had in 45 years of teaching. August was quality through and through--a wonderful student--his peers recognized his stature by electing him President of the Wartburg College Band. He was a man among men. I will miss his friendship very much--what a super guy!

I have known Aug since 1964, when he came here,in my Jr. year. I was not in band but always enjoyed visiting with him. Later after I married, he taught my daughter and son in band. He has been my neighbor since he moved to his home in Wheatland. He always enjoyed watching my grandchildren playing and would always remark about how they looked like their mom. The grandkids would always yell hi to him when he was out and wave to him when he left. I know my personal taste for music was richly increased by Aug telling us about a new collection that he thought we might enjoy. There will be some beautiful music in heaven with Aug's special touch. We will miss you very much. I will keep the porch light on for you. God bless and keep you.

To the Knoll family, I extend my condolences. I was unable to make it back to Wheatland for the service but wore black socks that day in honor : - ) Being in Concert and Pep Bands with Augie as our leader was the very best experience of my high school years (1985-89). Aug was an immensely talented instructor and musician as well as an extraordinary person. In a letter Augie sent to each of us seniors after graduation, he wrote something that has really stuck with me "Keep the joy of music in your hearts and wherever the road of life takes you, the journey of life will be smoother." He also encouraged me to keep playing clarinet in college, which after a bump in the road my freshman year, I did do. I don't think I would have done it without the encouragement Aug had given me previously.

It's quite a loss for all who were influenced by the great Aug Knoll. His life ended sooner than we all thought, but his accomplishements, friendships, and influence on so many are the true measure of his life. Thank you Mr. Knoll, you were one of the great ones.

I was a hs freshman when Aug came to Wheatland. Right out of college, I would have to say he was just learning to be a teacher, and I and my comtemporaries only understood the creativity and genius of the man years after the fact. The early years were marked by struggle,frustration, anxiety and progress, but always with a smile and a tremendous sense of enthusiasm. From Aug, we could all learn a lot about music, but even more about life. He touched all of us, and we loved him.

I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to all of August's family and his many friends. He was truly a great man and was a mentor to so many students and other teachers. I had the privilege of doing my student teaching with August nearly twenty years ago at Calamus-Wheatland. What a wealth of knowledge and compassion all wrapped up into one human being! We are all better people for having known him. He will be missed.

Mr. Knoll was an incredible person and touched so many lives. I’m sure every one of his students has at least one special memory. My most treasured memory is my high school graduation party (’93) when Chad Grimm “borrowed” the pep band folders, drum, synthesizer, etc., and brought them out to our farm where we set up in the garage. We had a fun jam session, and when Mr. Knoll stopped by, he joined right in! Perhaps the most valuable lesson I learned from him was that you didn’t have to be a perfect musician to play—it was okay to play just because you enjoyed it. The enjoyment his students experienced shone through in his amazing legacy. We were all so fortunate that he touched our lives. The regret is that future generations will not have the same opportunity.

I consider myself lucky to have had such a wonderful person as part of my life. Mr. Knoll (Aug) was a great teacher, instructor, person, and friend. He had a tremendous influence on me as well as many others. He inspired and challenged me to explore music beyond just the notes on a piece of paper. Mr. Knoll was a unique blend of being respectful of the old ways or how things should be done, while keeping and open mind of how things could be done. I remember beating up on the old Fender Rhodes electric piano and telling him how awesome a synthesizer would sound for jazz and pep bands and how "cool" that would be. He told me "cool" huh? We'ver never had to use one before, and we currently don't have a jazz band he mentioned. Two months later guess what we had, a new Yamaha DX7II synthesizer to use for the Jazz band that later followed. He made music fun, he made you want to get better and be a part of something bigger. His laugh was infectious and contagious. When you heard him say "Oh Geez" you knew you had him going. He was as diverse as his music collection - a little bit of Mozart mixed with Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Music in many ways is a metaphor for life. You have a beginning, middle and end. Sometimes it makes you dance, cry, and smile. Sometimes you sit first chair sometimes third. Sometimes it reminds you of old memories or helps you create new ones. Aug lived his life to his own soundtrack. He lived his life with his own accompaniment - His faith, family and friends, which made his life nothing less than a symphony! ROCK ON AUG! Mike Mills Class of 89

I'm very sad to hear of his passing. Mr. Knoll was always one of my favorite teachers; not only because he was an excellent teacher but because he had a phenomenal personality that was easy and enjoyable to be around. We shared a lot of laughs… my favorite was presenting him the 1994 senior class gift when I “tripped” and dropped his present in front of the concert crowd, and his face went numb as he listened to the contents of the box shattering. Of course it was a joke and the box was full of glass, and he had a smile from ear to ear followed by his barrel laugh after he realized the prank. He was always a good sport, and a good friend, and he will be missed.

We met August for the 1st time in June 2007 he came to our Knoll reunion. We just found the Knolls in Iowa due to a picture we sent to Robert Knoll. August was so please to find relatives they knew was in Illinois but we did'nt know was in Iowa. He was very much into doing family history. We will miss him he became a great friend. Roberta and Frank Knoll 2/18/2007

"Bach gave us God's word; Mozart gave us God's laughter; Beethoven gave us God's fire- God gave us music that we might pray without words." These are the words that always come to mind when I think of August Knoll. They hung in his office for all of us to see. He taught me and so many others so much. He taught us not just how to play music, but how to appreciate it. There are so many memories, from him busting our chops to perfect the concert for the Iowa Bandmasters Association, to rocking out with him for the Pep Band Jam concert. He pushed us all to the limits, and even though we may not have understood why at the time, I know we all understood eventually. I am truly thankful and honored to have been able to be one of his students. He was my teacher, my mentor, and most of all, my friend. He will be truly missed. Rest in peace Aug.

Dear August, It is hard if not impossible to say goodbye to someone who is still very much alive inside of me. Even after the period of five years since you retired and I left Wheatland our conversations, trips, humor, and teaching philosophy come out in everything I do. Music was not a teacher’s paycheck for you, it was a calling. It was a way of linking people with what was really important. You truly believed that what you taught in music and life the students and community had to know, and it was your mission to accomplish this task. There is not enough paper in the world to contain everything you have done in my life and the lives of many others. In the four years that we taught together you brought in the new century with me in New Orleans, you showed me the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, You hiked a mountain with me, you endured a whole night in a leaky tent with me, you were my eating buddy for countless after school outings at various places, you gave me the best first year of teaching an educator could ever experience, you taught me how to laugh, you taught me how to appreciate, and you taught me how to live life with purpose, passion, and quality. You were my best friend. If I were to sum up your life in one sentence, it would be this: You lived a quality life which will last forever in the hearts and minds of the people you touched. If I had one wish, it would be to someday become half the human being that you were to all of us, and that still would be an accomplishment. Thank You August Knoll. I will never forget you as now you are a part of me forever. Your Former Co-worker at Cal-Wheat, Nate Rickard

Mr Knoll was my saxophone teacher for the last 4 years. He helped me with a lot of music projects and solos. I was so glad he took the time to come and accompany me on the piano when I did my solo at school...two years in a row. I'll miss my tuesday evening lessons with him as he was a great teacher.

What a wonderful life August enjoyed! He did what he wanted to do, and when he wanted to do it. Acclaimed and beloved by his colleagues, friends, and family, he was awarded pretty much every citation and honor he could possibly receive from the organizations to which he belonged. When the end came, it came quickly. We are the ones who are suffering from the loss of this intelligent, kind, gentle, and wonderfully joyful soul. One cannot think of Augie without smiling. His legacy lives on through the lives of everyone he touched. In other words, he is truly immortal, and the smiles live on.

Terry and I extend our deepest sympathy to Aug's family and friends. August did such a beautiful job of teaching his students not only about music but about reaching their full potential, no matter what the task. The music he created with others was always superb, whether at Cal-Wheat, in the many community bands he played in, or on a pipe organ. He guided with well thought words, kindness, and a jovial sense of humor. I was so fortunate to have Aug as my mentor in my first teaching position at Calamus-Wheatland. The time spent with him was truly special, I will miss him so much.

Aug Knoll. What an icon for every human being! Aug was kind, gentle, caring, loving and funny! One could always share their funniest stories with Aug. I have so many memories of Aug. Aug has shaped the way my band sounds through his insistence on the warm, dark sound needed from the lower voices (imagine that coming from Aug) to the balanced sound of the McBeth pyramid (we band directors know what that means.) Aug has molded many band directors and has taught me how to run a superior band program. Remember his quote on the chalk board "Superior Bands, a Calamus-Wheatland tradition, a tradition in YOUR hands"? This quote has followed me where ever I have taught. I think of Aug daily and will remember him as the best influence on my teaching career. My condolences to the Knoll family and the extended family of Aug's countless friends. We are all part of his legacy and need to remember February 7 as Aug Knoll Day and raise our glasses at 7:00PM, where ever you may be in this world and remember Aug. What a loss to our heritage, but what a gain for heaven. I hope Aug is having a cigar and a long island iced tea. He certainly deserves one!

Mr Knoll was my son's private music instructor for almost 4 years. He had a wonderful rapport with my son and showed a genuine interest in him. He taught him a great deal and give him much of the credit for my son continuing his interest in his saxophone. He now is in highschool and will dearly miss his instructor---Tuesday evenings will be much different without our weekly lesson. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

August Knoll really did touch the lives of many. I am writing on behalf of the Trinity Lutheran Church Choir in Madison, WI. Augie was a dear friend of our retired Minister of Music, Arlyn Fuerst, as well as all of us. He joined with us as a singer on our 1996 tour of Germany, Czech, and Slovak Republics. He was a great addition to our group, as he knew so much about music and the churches we visited. His words from our trip journal indicate how he felt about this opportunity… “As I reflect on the trip with the Trinity Choir, one word keeps coming to mind - JOY. I have never experienced so much joy in such a compacted time frame.” Augie, you brought joy to all of us as well. He never missed a Good Friday service at Trinity, and was present for many Renaissance concerts, organ concerts, and special services. His friendshipand support was a treasure for us. His premature death is a great loss to the church and the world of music, and to all who knew him as friend, colleague and teacher. Our prayers are with his family and friends in this very difficult time. Heaven is now blessed with his music, energy and organization! Karen and Phil Paulson Trinity Lutheran Church Madison, WI

I must count August as one of my most cherished friends and mentors. The times that we shared discussing music, teaching, politics, religion (all facets of life) are too numerous to recall. But I do remember the greatest compliments that this fine gentleman could offer to me: playing with our community band (proudly holding up the third clarinets!) for many years. I will also never forget when August called me (little ol' me!) for advice on programming an honor band; imagine the Dean of Eastern Iowa Band directors calling for advice! This man was the embodiment of humility, kindness, gentleness and too many other superlatives to list. I will miss you so much my friend and know that your spot in the third clarinet section of the heavenly band awaits you. Rest in peace, dear August. Phillipians 4:8

Mr. Knoll was my daughter's only private music teacher. We had the pleasure of getting to know Mr. Knoll over the past 4 years. My daughter is currently 15 years old, and conversing with adults is not something she cares to do; however, she always was eagar to attend her lessons with Mr. Knoll. My daughter responded well to his low-key approach. She has not only enjoyed playing the clarinet, but she has had much success doing so under Mr. Knoll's guideance. My sincere condolences to all of Mr. Knoll's family and friends. Our Monday evenings will never be the same...

What a great man of music and a friend to so many. He had all four of my children in band, from the beginning to the end of their school years at C/W. My daughter had the honor of visiting with him this past summer when she was home for a visit. I will miss his smiling face at St. James in Toronto. I always enjoyed visiting with him after Mass, he always wanted to know where my kids were at, and about their families. The heavens will have a great man of music ,power, and wisdom. My prayers and thoughts are with each of you. God Bless.

I am truly sorry for the loss of Mr. Knoll. I was a member of his band at Calamus-Wheatland from 1995-1998. Looking back, I believe Mr. Knoll was my favorite high school teacher and he will be missed by many. My funniest memory of Mr. Knoll was when Bill Wundrum for the Quad City Times wrote his column about our band. He joked how big of a deal it was for all of us band members to be in BLACK socks for our concerts. Mr. Knoll - you touched my life and many others with music. The heavens are singing, but they better be in BLACK socks!

We will all miss you. Keep playing that clarinet in that big band in the sky. Kyle & Liz Mason

What a great man of music and a friend to so many. He had all four of my children in band, from the beginning to the end of their school years at C/W. My daughter had the honor of visiting with him this past summer when she was home for a visit. I will miss his smiling face at St. James in Toronto. I always enjoyed visiting with him after Mass, he always wanted to know where my kids were at, and about their families. The heavens will have a great man of music ,power, and wisdom. My prayers and thoughts are with each of you. God Bless.

I work with Kim Drishell (Liz). We send our sympathy at the loss of August. He will be greatly missed. He had many talents and used them according to the write-up. The Lord's Blessings upon the family.

Augie was my high school band instructor and friend, as he was to so many. I had little appreciation of music when I first met Augie as a high school freshman. I was a jock who happened to play trombone. In the four years that followed I learned to be a musician—I fell in love with music. As Augie did with so many, he took whoever showed up for band and shared his passion with all his heart and soul. He believed that music and art were so important for a young person’s education. He believed young people could experience the universal language of music, feel its emotion, and understand its harmonies. Augie always pointed out that our right “logical” brains get all the attention at the expense of our left "creative" brains. He took it upon himself to make sure we were properly educated. To a teenager in a small town, Augie certainly could seem a bit eccentric. Augie could have been a church organist at a giant church in a metropolitan city; he may have been a college music professor. Instead Augie dedicated himself as a small town high school band teacher and local church organist. In his own unique way he created something magical each and every school year. You didn’t just play in high school band; you believed that you were a part of something. Something that demanded teamwork, demanded dedication, that demanded quality—and it all had to be musical. I have many clear recollections of Augie Knoll and my experiences in band as do others. I still remember both his seriousness and his dry wit on the podium. I remember when we all struggled to break away from our natural instinct to play very precisely for Mr. Knoll. We were trying to prepare Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 for a pep band number. Augie abruptly stopped us in the middle of the song and very dry stated, “you are playing this very square and the last time I checked Dolly Parton is not square.” We did not have any problems jazzing up the number after that. There were more serious lessons interjected into band class including digressions about classical composers, music history, and the importance of music in peoples’ lives. Upon hearing of Augie’s passing, I immediately thought of a memorial numbers we performed in band under Augie’s direction. Music always helps me to come to grips with emotions. When words are few or do not quite work at the time of a loved ones passing, music fills the silence. Augie’s time on earth has passed, but his music plays on in those whom he taught, befriended, and loved. I offer my utmost condolences to August Knoll’s family. God bless you Augie!

Dear Family of Augie, Augie was a classmate of mine at Wartburg and we graduated together. Some of my fondest memories of those days are the fun we had as a class. I remember coming to the farm to share a meal and being from ND that was special. It is hard to convey the sense of loss. I will miss his annual Christmas letter and knowing he was always there for his friends. God bless you all. A gift will be made to the Wartburg College Music Fund in his name.

August is my father's friend (Arlyn Fuerst). I always remember him with a beard that he came and stayed our house for listening my father and my oldest brother's music in Madison, Wisconsin since 1970's. I always remember that I watched my father and August chatting about organ and music issues that I didn't understand because I am deaf. I like August's smile when he greeted me. He is very good person to my father and us. I will always remember him. Paul Fuerst

Dear Family of Augie Knoll: I am still in shock over the news of Augie's passing. It was very difficult to go to rehearsal Sunday night and confront his empty chair. He was a fine gentleman and musician, and will be very much missed. Susan Schwaegler Clarinet Section Leader Quad City Wind Ensemble

Aug was my teacher,my kid's teacher,the organist at my wedding,my choir director and also my friend. I didn't get a chance to tell him that I have forgiven him for giving me my first detention! I thank God that he was a part of my life.

My deepest sympathy goes out to all of Aug's family and also to his students...I was of the Class of 89 from Cal-Wheat, and ohhhh the memories I have. He always made us strive for our best and to accomplish the impossible all while having fun! Concert, Jazz, and Pep Band were the reasons I went to school and made the grades so I'd be able to play. Our Sr. year was full of ups & downs, we won big at State contest, and we lost a dear friend/classmate/band member that year, it was the music that brought us all together to heal and regroup. For our last concert of the year we ended with Sine Nomine (For All the Saints) he joined us on the synth as a pipe organ with the concert band and the huge sound of the pipe organ was out of this world. I can remember the laughter & tears as it was only yesterday, the way he'd smile when we've done good and the way the hands would fly to his head with an "OOPS OOPS OOPS". I'm just so very sorry for everyone's loss, he truly was an amazing man. Peace and Blessings to you all, Erika

With my most heart felt sympathy to Auggie’s family and friends. I remember you with a smile in my heart, when I hear that deep, deep voice of yours that many of us try to imitate when sharing and passing on so much of the advise, wisdom and stories you shared with us so willingly. Truly one of the most kind and gracious men I have ever known.

Mr. Knoll was a wonderful man who will be greatly missed. The lives he touched through his teaching, music, and friendship are forever blessed.

To the Knoll family, Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. Augie was a terrific guy. We are both band directors, and knew Augie through our connection in music. What a tremendous loss. We're sorry we can't be at the memorial service, but have a school solo festival at the same time on Saturday. We will certainly have Augie in our thoughts that day as we charge about monitoring our students' efforts, and hope to inspire them with the kind of enthusiasm and patience that Augie had. He will be missed by many.

My condolences to the Knoll family on your loss. I believe that ones life is not measured by its length, but by what was accomplished by this time on earth. August Knoll was a great man that touched many lives. I went to Wheatland High during the Sendek regime, and what a breath of fresh air it was to have Mr. Knoll around. I didn't understand at the time how special he was and what an impact he would have on my life. I remember when all the conservative midwest families were driving American cars, and Auggie had this cool blue Audi. He was such an open minded man. He took some of us beginning drummers to see Buddy Rich in the Quad Cities. I also remember going to a Maynard Ferguson Concert with him. He was at the Bear Creek campout with St. Pauls Church. August Knoll was instrumental (pardon the pun) in helping me to see what a big world there is out there. While I am saddened to hear that he passed so soon, I am honored that I had a chance to know such a fine gentleman. I began playing guitar about 10 years ago. When I return to visit my family, I always meant to visit August and thank him for the appreciation for music that I got from him. Unfortunately I never conveyed those thoughts to him in person. Mr. Knoll, whereever you are, thank you so much for all you gave me. I will never forget you and will think about you when I play my guitar. God bless you August.

This is quite a shock. I have great memories of Aug and his teachings meant so much to me. I have so much respect for what he did for the music program in our community. He was the best teacher I could have asked for; even after I graduated he became a neighbor and much more, a friend. I go to church in different places now and all I think about during the hymns, is how much better Aug would be playing the organ right now at St. Pauls. He will be missed by many across the state. I'm sorry I could not be back for the service, but he will be in my thoughts. Geoffrey Boedeker(1992)

I am so grateful to have been taught by Auggie, a true master musician and master teacher. Could any other student have had a better music education? Having to take a semester test in band, buying black socks in bulk, performing a Dvorak piece, playing for the IBA, going to honor bands, having him play for my wedding, and getting to play in the rockingest pep band this side of the river are among my fondest memories of Mr. Knoll. I think his greatest legacy is seen in the lives of his kids - all 43+ years of us.

After viewing everyone's thoughts I realized that no one recounted my best Mr. Knoll band memory. Our percussion dept. in concert band in the years 1966-1970 were VERY TALENTED but extremely unfocused and inattentive. They were NEVER ready for daily practice. They never had their folders ready, etc. One day it was just too much for Mr. Knoll. The whole band was waiting, ready to go except the drummers. They didn't have their folders on their stands or their drumsticks in their hands. Mr. Knoll, in extreme exasperation, stepped stridently off his directing platform, grabbed their folders out of the rack, stepped back onto his platform and threw them over our heads towards the drummers. Of course all of the sheet music flew out of the flying folders and gently descended over our heads and then down on the floor.THERE WAS DEAD SILENCE. The whole band area was covered in sheet music. Needless to say, the percussion department was ready to go and "johnny on the spot" the rest of the year! What memories!

To the family of August Knoll-- Not only did Mr. Knoll reach out to all three of my children in school, I had the honor to share his musical talents in the DeWitt Area Community Band and got to play in the H.S. pep band with him even though I never even graduated from there. His love of music and band was passed along to many other people and I will always be grateful to him for this. We shared the clarinet and I also sang in the Koinia Choral Society (Messiah) with him. May God bless all the lives he touched! Nancy Rutenbeck

We have fond memories of our association with Augie as members of the Wartburg College Band in the 1960s. Fortunately, living in Waverly allowed us to keep in touch during his trips back to Wartburg over the years. Augie personified Wartburg’s mission statement through a life of leadership and service that was a spirited expression of his faith and learning. Music was Augie’s calling, embodied through his own music making and in the generations of students he inspired. His zest for life and his intellectual curiosity made him a masterful teacher and a treasured friend. We are richer for having known Augie, and we are touched by the many wonderful tributes written by his students and friends.

Mr. Knoll was a wonderful and talented musician and teacher. His love for music permiated from his every pore. He was an inspiration to myself and many a student through high school band, pep band and jazz band. I feel honored to have had him as an instructor for four years, as I'm sure many a previous student couldn't agree more. Rest in peace, and know you have made a difference in many people's lives.

Dear Edna and the Knoll Family, I was so sorry to hear about August's death. Please accept our sincere sympathy to all of your family and friends. You should be so proud of August as he was such a mentor to so many students and others in his career. I was one of his students from 6th grade through graduation at Wheatland and have always appreciated the musical skills he taught me. Aug was one of those special people who always had time to listen to a troubled teen or person who was struggling with a crisis. He accepted us unconditionally and occasionally with a grimace and an eye roll! I feel so lucky to have known him and heard the wonderful music he made. He truly was a wonderful man! You should be proud that you raised such a great son who gave so much to the community. I will truly miss him and I am keeping your family in my prayers as you grieve his loss. May his legacy be a comfort to you and yours. Sincerely, Melanie Huibregtse & family (formerly Melanie Rensink)

My thoughts are with the Knoll family at this sad time. Mr. Knoll was my band teacher at Wheatland in 1985-1986 and was truly an inspiration to me. He went above and beyond his teaching duties, to give me and others the musical opportunities that are rare in such a small school setting. I will always especially appreciate the opportunity to play "Persuasion" my senior year of high school. Mr. Knoll was a very talented and kind person who had a wonderful gift to share. He will be missed.

The family of August Knoll wishes to express thanks for the many kind expressions of sympathy as we deal with the sudden death of my son, brother, and uncle. All of your prayers, cards, calls, emails, memorials, and flowers have been deeply appreciated. A special thanks to Rev. Laird L. Keever and St. Paul's United Church of Christ for the touching Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving of August's Life. Thank you to the community of Wheatland for the wonderful meal served following the service. His gifts to us were many. He would want music to live on in our heart and spirit.

I taught with Augie in Wheatland in 1968-1970. We have kept in contact since. I have enjoyed his wonderful Christmas travel and newsy letters. He was a great musician and had a great love of his students. He was someone to look to with great respect.

Augie taught my son saxaphone for the past two years. He was a wonderful influence on my son. I am honored to have known Augie. Music brought him so much happiness and he loved teaching and sharing that with everyone. Every week he had such an excitment in his eye when he was teaching.His love for music and for life came through in every conversation I had with him. My son learned so much from Augie, he will be truly missed.

One of my fondest memories includes August Knoll. He accompanied my father to Hamburg, Germany when I performed a concert on a rather famous organ (one that certainly interested Augie a great deal). Dad and Augie listened to my registrations for the concert and since the distance from the loft to the nave was too great for speaking, they used the thumbs-up-sign, if something worked particularly well. I will never forget seeing Augie glow during that process. I will also never forget seeing him draw the shape of a particularly beautifully sounding reed stop into his notebook. What an interested person he was! A true model of one with a passion for a subject who is eager to add to his experience with an open mind. I never saw Augie eager to show off his expertise – he always listened. I grew up with our family having Augie as a regular guest, sometimes at short notice. He was always welcome. It is still unfathomable to me that he won’t be calling up to announce a quick visit. We will all miss him very much.

Looking through the seemingly endless entries, I can't think of anything more to add about this truly original man. He was an amazing teacher with a passion for his craft like nothing I've ever seen. Some have alluded to the emotions during the 1988-89 school year and Aug was a major player in healing a school full of hurting kids, our senior class especially. We may miss him here, but I know the melodies of the heavens are now so much sweeter. . .

In our thoughts and prayers. . .

We were shocked and saddened to hear of Augie's death. Ben has taken saxophone lessons from Augie for the past 4 years. Augie was a fantastic, caring teacher. Ben appreciated his help with his solos, weekly lessons, and tone. Augie always wanted to accompany his students to their solo contests which we appreciated. He gave his students a Christmas card and West gift certificate each Christmas. He will be missed. The Menke Family Ben, Phil, Sharon, and Brandon