With Gratitude to Barre Toelken -

I was recently made aware that my folklore hero is on hospice care in Logan, Utah. We age, I know, yet I am saddened to see one of the greats reach toward his next adventure. Several of us were encouraged to send him a letter, and I know whether Barre hears my writings, read by a daughter, or not, writing this has been cathartic. And I limited my words, but could have continued my list for quite some time.

Here goes -

Dear Barre,

I am saddened to hear that your health is failing. I am grateful for the lessons you've taught me over the years - through classes and lectures as well as through the ways you have lived your life. Let me share, if you may.


1. Organize well and expect the best. The Fife Conferences were amazing opportunities for me to learn and grow and associate with folklorists of the highest caliber. And they came to USU because you invited them and because they were invited. And the lectures were intellectually stimulating and entertaining. I never felt like my time was wasted or my dollar ill-spent.

2. You can entertain and teach at the same time. Your sharp lessons and wit kept me listening and staying present, just because I didn't want to miss out on one thing you had to say. I knew I could hang my hat on your every word, and I embraced every moment I had to do so.

3. There is such a thing as long-distance education. Barre, two of my saddest times as a student were learning that you would no longer be teaching and that you would no longer be on my thesis committee. I looked forward to spending a few moments with you and learning about my abilities through your perspective. However - learning from those whom you taught as well as reading your writings gave me some of the education I would have received from you. Thank you.

4. Music is the international tongue. How many folklorists are musicians? Oh I envy you bunch! And the quality of musicianship that comes from each of you just overwhelmed me. I remember the first time I heard you sing - it was at a Fife Conference. You reached for your guitar and began playing and then singing, a sea-shanty - I think it was Roll the Old Chariot. I was mesmerized. I closed my eyes, and I was in the Northeast on a cold windy day, smelling the salt air, and listening to a bunch of burly sailors singing, with you leading them. Your voice did me in, and I looked forward to hearing you sing. My last experience was a couple of years ago at the Utah Folklore Society open house held in your home. There was a music circle, and you led the group in some amazing tunes. My daughter was with me, and she was spell-bound. I was so jealous of those who were able to learn these songs from you.

5. Lastly, but I could go on and on - you taught me, "So What," as one of the most valuable questions a folklorist could ask! And this made sense, and I've taught it to my more than 1000 folklore students over the years (and given you credit). So What - what is the value, what does it mean, what is the purpose; two words wrapped all of this inquiry up so well and complete.

Barre - you are my idol in the folklore world. If I could have been a Barre groupie, I would have jumped at the chance - and I know you definitely had a following. Thank you for the lessons - taught by you without a text. Thank you for your example of seizing life, living to the max, and embracing every moment and every person. You have been my example, and I wish you peaceful waves, calm weather, a pocket of tobacco, and a bottle of your favorite drink, as you continue on your journey.

My sincerest love, Ronda Walker Weaver (Utah Valley University, USU grad 2003)