Teacher Mary's Memories of Mr. T

Mr. T 

I met Mr. T in January of 2005.  He reminded me of Santa Claus, and I told him so.  He chuckled heartily. He was kind, sweet, tough when he needed to be, and patient. He was a good listener and a great storyteller. I always looked forward to and enjoyed his classroom visits at the beginning of every new semester and at Christmas.  He made the school feel like a safe and friendly place to be. He always made time for me when I needed someone to talk to. He never said no.

Mr. T was the one who convinced me to work at the adult school full time. He wanted me to be a part of the SMAS family.  I am honored to have the opportunity to know him, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from him.  Not only was he a great boss and leader, but he was also a great grandfather figure. I used to tell him that all the time.  Uh-oh….I can almost hear him say in mocked outrage,” Grandfather?  I’m not THAT old!!” 

We talked on the phone 14 days before he passed.  I was very sad to learn that he was in hospice care, but I was also fortunate to have had the chance to tell him that I loved him and that I was grateful to him for everything he has taught me- to be kind, to be patient, and to take every opportunity to build friendships.

I would like to imagine Mr. T sharing his stories and jokes with the angels in Heaven.  As one student commented,”Mr. T is probably doing raffles in Heaven now.”  Mr. T would have a bag of goodies for the angels if they win a raffle. He might have a new harp, a halo, or some sandals as prizes.

I love you, Mr. T.  Thank you for being an amazing boss and friend.  

Mary Weng

Toshio Hirano, Mary Weng, Mr. T, Eric Saavedra, "Santa," Jay Finkelstein