Welcome to the memorial page for
Jan Charles Haluska
December 17, 1941 ~ September 25, 2015 (age 73) 73 Years Old Light a Candle
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Message from Jim Coon
November 11, 2015 2:44 PM
Marcia and family,
We were saddened to learn of Jan's passing. We have fond memories of you both and the boys when they were young when we were all at the U. of TN living in Taliwa Court. Jan was always good to talk to as were you.
With sympathy,
Jim and Jo Coon and family
We were saddened to learn of Jan's passing. We have fond memories of you both and the boys when they were young when we were all at the U. of TN living in Taliwa Court. Jan was always good to talk to as were you.
With sympathy,
Jim and Jo Coon and family
Message from Don
October 27, 2015 10:52 AM
I served with Jan in the Army in Germany. Talked with him, and emailed a bit, 20 years later. Now every thing I have read about Jan brings back who he was, fond memories.
My condolences on his loss.
Don Staples
My condolences on his loss.
Don Staples
Message from Mark and Mitzi Bame
October 21, 2015 4:23 PM
Mrs. Haluska and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of grief. We couldn't attend the memorial service, but followed online and were deeply moved.
We praise the Lord for how He used Dr. Haluska, and are so glad he touched our lives!
Sincerely,
Mark and Mitzi Bame
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of grief. We couldn't attend the memorial service, but followed online and were deeply moved.
We praise the Lord for how He used Dr. Haluska, and are so glad he touched our lives!
Sincerely,
Mark and Mitzi Bame
Message from Christen Cool
October 3, 2015 10:59 PM
Dear Mrs. Haluska and family,
When I heard the news of your loss via the internet, I was both shocked and deeply saddened. Since then I have been praying for the comfort of your family during this hard time. I had been keeping up with Dr. Haluska until about the past two years, as I have been living abroad and have become distant from life in the States. I regret that I lost the chance of telling him once more how much I appreciated him.
Dr. Haluska was an incredibly admirable, respectable, and godly man with a genuine Christlike love for people and an immense intellect that he shared with his students. I was blessed to be his reader for the whole four years that I attended Southern. I have nothing but fond memories of him. I remember the many kinds of facial expressions he had--a half smile that would be followed by a wink, a look of great excitement at receiving some unexpected news, and his serious, pensive face when there was a problem to be dealt with. I remember how, when he heard me unlock the door to my reader's office and sit down at my desk, he would come in to greet me and ask how things were going.
We'd often have talks about his Comp. 101 classes. He was known as being the strictest professor in the English Department, and I followed him as being the strictest reader at that time, though he protected my identity since I had to be his reader while taking his classes. One day I remember clearly was when the second set of Comp. 101 essays had come in. I was in the midst of marking their grammar errors when he came into my office. I told him, rather surprised, "They did a lot better this time!" He grinned, cocked his head, and replied something along the lines of, "That's because all that blood scared 'em last time. Good going!" and winked. Dr. Haluska sincerely desired for students to learn and apply methods that would make them successful in any department on campus, as well as in their future lives, so he was thrilled when they were achieving those goals.
Dr. Haluska also cared immensely about people. As I sat in my reader's office from day to day, I often heard students and faculty walk into his office for a chat. I knew how busy and pressed for time he was, especially after he became the chair of the department, but that never kept him from giving quality time to anyone who came to his office. As the walls between my office and his were paper thin, I often heard him pray with people. I was no exception. He prayed for me many times, but not only that. If the need for prayer was related to something at Southern, as my academic adviser, he would do all in his power to help me solve the problem. As I had never had a positive male figure in my life, I came to appreciate Dr. Haluska as both a mentor and friend.
Four years ago, when God called me to serve as a teacher in Asia, Dr. Haluska became one of my references for my position and encouraged me that I could do well. During my first year, I had some immense struggles and emailed him a few times. He answered me with sound, godly counsel and always concluded by saying, "Marcia and I are praying for you."
Though years have passed since I've seen him, he and his instruction have never left my memory. Just a few weeks ago, while teaching my highest level EFL students how to write an essay, I found myself drawing the Parthenon on the board and explaining to them the method that I had heard and seen Dr. Haluska teach time and again, so now his legacy has, in part, extended to Asia.
There's so much more I could write, but I'll leave it at this: Dr. Haluska is a man that will be greatly missed, as he has touched so many lives both academically and personally. He was a man who loved God sincerely and shared His love with everyone around him. I look forward to the day when we can all be reunited in the Kingdom of God, and I can look him in the eyes and say, "You're one of the reasons why I'm here." God be with your family.
Sincerely,
Christen Cool
When I heard the news of your loss via the internet, I was both shocked and deeply saddened. Since then I have been praying for the comfort of your family during this hard time. I had been keeping up with Dr. Haluska until about the past two years, as I have been living abroad and have become distant from life in the States. I regret that I lost the chance of telling him once more how much I appreciated him.
Dr. Haluska was an incredibly admirable, respectable, and godly man with a genuine Christlike love for people and an immense intellect that he shared with his students. I was blessed to be his reader for the whole four years that I attended Southern. I have nothing but fond memories of him. I remember the many kinds of facial expressions he had--a half smile that would be followed by a wink, a look of great excitement at receiving some unexpected news, and his serious, pensive face when there was a problem to be dealt with. I remember how, when he heard me unlock the door to my reader's office and sit down at my desk, he would come in to greet me and ask how things were going.
We'd often have talks about his Comp. 101 classes. He was known as being the strictest professor in the English Department, and I followed him as being the strictest reader at that time, though he protected my identity since I had to be his reader while taking his classes. One day I remember clearly was when the second set of Comp. 101 essays had come in. I was in the midst of marking their grammar errors when he came into my office. I told him, rather surprised, "They did a lot better this time!" He grinned, cocked his head, and replied something along the lines of, "That's because all that blood scared 'em last time. Good going!" and winked. Dr. Haluska sincerely desired for students to learn and apply methods that would make them successful in any department on campus, as well as in their future lives, so he was thrilled when they were achieving those goals.
Dr. Haluska also cared immensely about people. As I sat in my reader's office from day to day, I often heard students and faculty walk into his office for a chat. I knew how busy and pressed for time he was, especially after he became the chair of the department, but that never kept him from giving quality time to anyone who came to his office. As the walls between my office and his were paper thin, I often heard him pray with people. I was no exception. He prayed for me many times, but not only that. If the need for prayer was related to something at Southern, as my academic adviser, he would do all in his power to help me solve the problem. As I had never had a positive male figure in my life, I came to appreciate Dr. Haluska as both a mentor and friend.
Four years ago, when God called me to serve as a teacher in Asia, Dr. Haluska became one of my references for my position and encouraged me that I could do well. During my first year, I had some immense struggles and emailed him a few times. He answered me with sound, godly counsel and always concluded by saying, "Marcia and I are praying for you."
Though years have passed since I've seen him, he and his instruction have never left my memory. Just a few weeks ago, while teaching my highest level EFL students how to write an essay, I found myself drawing the Parthenon on the board and explaining to them the method that I had heard and seen Dr. Haluska teach time and again, so now his legacy has, in part, extended to Asia.
There's so much more I could write, but I'll leave it at this: Dr. Haluska is a man that will be greatly missed, as he has touched so many lives both academically and personally. He was a man who loved God sincerely and shared His love with everyone around him. I look forward to the day when we can all be reunited in the Kingdom of God, and I can look him in the eyes and say, "You're one of the reasons why I'm here." God be with your family.
Sincerely,
Christen Cool
Message from Christen Cool
October 3, 2015 10:40 PM
To Mrs. Haluska and family,
When I heard the news of your loss via the internet, I was both shocked and deeply saddened. Since then I have been praying for the comfort of your family during this hard time. I had been keeping up with Dr. Haluska until about the past two years, as I have been living abroad and have become distant from life in the States. I regret that I lost the chance of telling him once more how much I appreciated him.
Dr. Haluska was an incredibly admirable, respectable, and godly man with a genuine Christlike love for people and an immense intellect that he shared with his students. I was blessed to be his reader for the whole four years that I attended Southern. I have nothing but fond memories of him. I remember the many kinds of facial expressions he had--a half smile that would be followed by a wink, a look of great excitement at receiving some unexpected news, and his serious, pensive face when there was a problem to be dealt with. I remember how, when he heard me unlock the door to my reader's office and sit down at my desk, he would come in to greet me and ask about how things were going.
We'd also often have talks about his Comp. 101 classes. He was known as being the strictest professor in the English Department, and I followed him as being the strictest reader at that time, though he protected my identity since I had to be his reader while taking his classes. One day I remember clearly was when the second set of Comp. 101 essays had come in. I was in the midst of marking their grammar errors when he came into my office. I told him, rather surprised, "They did a lot better this time!" He grinned, cocked his head, and replied something along the lines of, "That's because all that blood scared 'em last time. Good going!" and winked. Dr. Haluska sincerely desired for students to learn and apply methods that would make them successful in any department on campus, as well as in their future lives, so he was thrilled when they were achieving those goals.
Dr. Haluska also cared immensely about people. As I sat in my reader's office from day to day, I often heard students and faculty walk into his office for a chat. I knew how busy and pressed for time he was, especially after he became the chair of the department, but that never kept him from giving quality time to anyone who came to his office. As the walls between my office and his were paper thin, I often heard him pray with people. I was no exception. He prayed for me many times, but not only that. If the need for prayer was related to something at Southern, as my academic adviser, he would do all in his power to help me solve the problem. As I had never had a positive male figure in my life, I came to appreciate Dr. Haluska as both a mentor and friend.
Four years ago, when God called me to serve as a teacher in Asia, Dr. Haluska became one of my references for my position and encouraged me that I could do well. During my first year, I had some immense struggles and emailed him a few times. He answered me with sound, godly counsel and always concluded by saying, "Marcia and I are praying for you."
Though it has been years since I've seen him, he and his instruction have never left my memory. Just a few weeks ago, while teaching my highest level EFL students how to write an essay, I found myself drawing the Parthenon on the board and explaining to them the method that I had heard and seen Dr. Haluska teach time and again, so now his legacy has, in part, extended to Asia.
There's so much more I could write, but I'll leave it at this: Dr. Haluska is a man that will be greatly missed, as he has touched so many lives both academically and personally. He was a man who loved God sincerely and shared His love with everyone around him. I look forward to the day when we can all be reunited in the Kingdom of God, and I can look him in the eyes and say, "You're one of the reasons why I'm here." God be with your family.
Sincerely,
Christen Cool
When I heard the news of your loss via the internet, I was both shocked and deeply saddened. Since then I have been praying for the comfort of your family during this hard time. I had been keeping up with Dr. Haluska until about the past two years, as I have been living abroad and have become distant from life in the States. I regret that I lost the chance of telling him once more how much I appreciated him.
Dr. Haluska was an incredibly admirable, respectable, and godly man with a genuine Christlike love for people and an immense intellect that he shared with his students. I was blessed to be his reader for the whole four years that I attended Southern. I have nothing but fond memories of him. I remember the many kinds of facial expressions he had--a half smile that would be followed by a wink, a look of great excitement at receiving some unexpected news, and his serious, pensive face when there was a problem to be dealt with. I remember how, when he heard me unlock the door to my reader's office and sit down at my desk, he would come in to greet me and ask about how things were going.
We'd also often have talks about his Comp. 101 classes. He was known as being the strictest professor in the English Department, and I followed him as being the strictest reader at that time, though he protected my identity since I had to be his reader while taking his classes. One day I remember clearly was when the second set of Comp. 101 essays had come in. I was in the midst of marking their grammar errors when he came into my office. I told him, rather surprised, "They did a lot better this time!" He grinned, cocked his head, and replied something along the lines of, "That's because all that blood scared 'em last time. Good going!" and winked. Dr. Haluska sincerely desired for students to learn and apply methods that would make them successful in any department on campus, as well as in their future lives, so he was thrilled when they were achieving those goals.
Dr. Haluska also cared immensely about people. As I sat in my reader's office from day to day, I often heard students and faculty walk into his office for a chat. I knew how busy and pressed for time he was, especially after he became the chair of the department, but that never kept him from giving quality time to anyone who came to his office. As the walls between my office and his were paper thin, I often heard him pray with people. I was no exception. He prayed for me many times, but not only that. If the need for prayer was related to something at Southern, as my academic adviser, he would do all in his power to help me solve the problem. As I had never had a positive male figure in my life, I came to appreciate Dr. Haluska as both a mentor and friend.
Four years ago, when God called me to serve as a teacher in Asia, Dr. Haluska became one of my references for my position and encouraged me that I could do well. During my first year, I had some immense struggles and emailed him a few times. He answered me with sound, godly counsel and always concluded by saying, "Marcia and I are praying for you."
Though it has been years since I've seen him, he and his instruction have never left my memory. Just a few weeks ago, while teaching my highest level EFL students how to write an essay, I found myself drawing the Parthenon on the board and explaining to them the method that I had heard and seen Dr. Haluska teach time and again, so now his legacy has, in part, extended to Asia.
There's so much more I could write, but I'll leave it at this: Dr. Haluska is a man that will be greatly missed, as he has touched so many lives both academically and personally. He was a man who loved God sincerely and shared His love with everyone around him. I look forward to the day when we can all be reunited in the Kingdom of God, and I can look him in the eyes and say, "You're one of the reasons why I'm here." God be with your family.
Sincerely,
Christen Cool
Message from Judy Clippinger
October 3, 2015 4:46 PM
Dear Marcia and Family,
I was saddened today to hear of Dr. Haluska's passing. Doc was my favorite professor--not just at Southern, but among all whose classes I have taken. I much enjoyed being in his classes and participating in the discussions. I especially liked it when he made me think of things in ways that I had not thought of before. He was a challenging professor, but also a kind and compassionate man.
My own father was not a Christian, and when I needed to talk, Doc's door was always open. I have often remembered him with fondness and a smile. While taking a poetry class at Andrews, I wrote a prose poem about him, titled "My Hero."
It is ironic for an English major to say, but words cannot adequately express the impact that Doc has had on me and on the many other students who were blessed to be in his classes. The world needs more men like him.
The only thing more I can say is this:
Of all I have known, he will be most missed.
Judy Clippinger
SAU 2007
AU 2011
I was saddened today to hear of Dr. Haluska's passing. Doc was my favorite professor--not just at Southern, but among all whose classes I have taken. I much enjoyed being in his classes and participating in the discussions. I especially liked it when he made me think of things in ways that I had not thought of before. He was a challenging professor, but also a kind and compassionate man.
My own father was not a Christian, and when I needed to talk, Doc's door was always open. I have often remembered him with fondness and a smile. While taking a poetry class at Andrews, I wrote a prose poem about him, titled "My Hero."
It is ironic for an English major to say, but words cannot adequately express the impact that Doc has had on me and on the many other students who were blessed to be in his classes. The world needs more men like him.
The only thing more I can say is this:
Of all I have known, he will be most missed.
Judy Clippinger
SAU 2007
AU 2011
Message from Chloe Perez
October 3, 2015 3:24 PM
To the family of Dr. Haluska, I am saddened to have heard of Dr. Haluska's passing. He was such a well-respected professor. As a former student of Southern Adventist University, and English graduate, I feel honored to have had Dr. Haluska as one of my professors. I took several of his classes but my favorite was 19th Century British Literature.
In this class, I was encouraged to read a plethora of beautiful works by some of Britain's most well-renowned and cherished authors. I especially loved learning about Wordsworth and how he captivated the very essence of the Romanticism time period. In Dr. Haluska's classes, I was academically stimulated, and encouraged to cultivate a passion for literature. It was Dr. Haluska's 'thesis-driven' method that was the catalyst for my robust and scholarly essays.
Dr. Haluska was such a pillar in the English Department and a great academic mentor. I feel honored to have been one of his students at his tenure at Southern Adventist University. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time of loss and I pray that God may send His angels of comfort and compassion.
I learned so much from Dr. Haluska's classes and he will be greatly missed.
God bless,
~ Chloe Perez
B.A. English, class of 2012
In this class, I was encouraged to read a plethora of beautiful works by some of Britain's most well-renowned and cherished authors. I especially loved learning about Wordsworth and how he captivated the very essence of the Romanticism time period. In Dr. Haluska's classes, I was academically stimulated, and encouraged to cultivate a passion for literature. It was Dr. Haluska's 'thesis-driven' method that was the catalyst for my robust and scholarly essays.
Dr. Haluska was such a pillar in the English Department and a great academic mentor. I feel honored to have been one of his students at his tenure at Southern Adventist University. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time of loss and I pray that God may send His angels of comfort and compassion.
I learned so much from Dr. Haluska's classes and he will be greatly missed.
God bless,
~ Chloe Perez
B.A. English, class of 2012
Message from Jeff and Jeri Holweger
October 2, 2015 3:02 PM
Marsha: I graduated from GCA the year before you and Jan came to Calhoun, but your legacy lives on. Your kindness to our Heather at AWS will never be forgotten. We are praying for your comfort during this time of acute sorrow. Resting in Jesus, Jan has nothing but glory in his future. Trust Jesus. Love you
Jeff and Jeri Holweger
Jeff and Jeri Holweger
Message from Brenda Greenman
October 2, 2015 10:39 AM
Marcia and family,
So very sorry for your loss Marcia. So wish I could be there - but just not able to be. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you through this time.
Brenda Greenman
So very sorry for your loss Marcia. So wish I could be there - but just not able to be. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you through this time.
Brenda Greenman
Message from Candace Bell
October 1, 2015 6:48 PM
Marcia, Aaron, David and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I only met Mr. Haluska a few times but it was an honour to have known him. He was so kind and generous. I remember a couple days before Mindy and David's wedding when he took time out of his day to take me and Cher to the shooting range. I'll never forget that. May God comfort you during this time.
I am so sorry for your loss. I only met Mr. Haluska a few times but it was an honour to have known him. He was so kind and generous. I remember a couple days before Mindy and David's wedding when he took time out of his day to take me and Cher to the shooting range. I'll never forget that. May God comfort you during this time.
Message from Edwin and Connie Reynolds
September 30, 2015 11:30 AM
Edwin and Connie Reynolds purchased the Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum for the family of Jan Charles Haluska.
Message from Edwin Reynolds
September 30, 2015 11:09 AM
When we were in college together at PUC, Jan was rooming with my brother, and we became good friends. At the time Jan was a staunch Christian Scientist and not very open to Adventism, but he saw the way some people lived, such as my brother, and he was irresistably drawn. Eventually he became an Adventist, and he has been very faithful to his faith ever since. Jan was a person of great integrity, always taking the moral high ground. He lived what he believed and was unafraid to bear witness of his faith.
At the end of my senior year, I was drafted into the army. Jan had already been in the army, so he gave me very pointed instructions on how to be successful, especially in boot camp. He taught me secrets of how to fix my bunk properly and how to fold and arrange my underwear, etc., in my footlocker, and how to hang everything just so in my wall locker. It really paid off during basic training. My drill sergeant was so impressed that he drafted me to instruct all the other guys in my unit how to do theirs just like mine. He even had me accompany him on inspection rounds to help him inspect each soldier's area and instruct those who were not adhering to the standards. He gave me special privileges on bivouac, and I got to ride with him instead of marching with the others. In the end, I was promoted to E-2 and nominated for the American Spirit of Honor medal, all because Jan had prepared me well for the experience. As always, he clearly knew what he was doing and how to help others to know also.
When I came to teach at Southern, I was very happy to have a friend like Jan here. He got me involved in things here. One day he came to my office and informed me that he had nominated me for chair-elect for the Senate and was representing the nominating committee to ask me if I would serve. He said he was confident that I could do the job and he wanted to bring back a positive report to the committee. I had not been here long, but after some consultation with my dean, who supported Jan's request, I accepted the role. It was a great experience, and I treasure Jan's confidence in me. Since he had already served as Senate chair, I drew upon his experience and advice once again to plan for a busy and productive year when I moved into the chair's position. Jan had big shoes to fill, but following in his footsteps always put me in good stead.
As Jan approached the end of his life, I was not surprised to find him doing so with great dignity and assurance that God's plans for him were always the right plans, and he submitted without resentment to whatever that might be. I would hope to be able to follow in his footsteps once again should that be my lot. He was a great man in every way, and I am honored to call him my friend. May God comfort Marcia and the rest of his family.
Edwin Reynolds
At the end of my senior year, I was drafted into the army. Jan had already been in the army, so he gave me very pointed instructions on how to be successful, especially in boot camp. He taught me secrets of how to fix my bunk properly and how to fold and arrange my underwear, etc., in my footlocker, and how to hang everything just so in my wall locker. It really paid off during basic training. My drill sergeant was so impressed that he drafted me to instruct all the other guys in my unit how to do theirs just like mine. He even had me accompany him on inspection rounds to help him inspect each soldier's area and instruct those who were not adhering to the standards. He gave me special privileges on bivouac, and I got to ride with him instead of marching with the others. In the end, I was promoted to E-2 and nominated for the American Spirit of Honor medal, all because Jan had prepared me well for the experience. As always, he clearly knew what he was doing and how to help others to know also.
When I came to teach at Southern, I was very happy to have a friend like Jan here. He got me involved in things here. One day he came to my office and informed me that he had nominated me for chair-elect for the Senate and was representing the nominating committee to ask me if I would serve. He said he was confident that I could do the job and he wanted to bring back a positive report to the committee. I had not been here long, but after some consultation with my dean, who supported Jan's request, I accepted the role. It was a great experience, and I treasure Jan's confidence in me. Since he had already served as Senate chair, I drew upon his experience and advice once again to plan for a busy and productive year when I moved into the chair's position. Jan had big shoes to fill, but following in his footsteps always put me in good stead.
As Jan approached the end of his life, I was not surprised to find him doing so with great dignity and assurance that God's plans for him were always the right plans, and he submitted without resentment to whatever that might be. I would hope to be able to follow in his footsteps once again should that be my lot. He was a great man in every way, and I am honored to call him my friend. May God comfort Marcia and the rest of his family.
Edwin Reynolds
Message from Edwin Reynolds
September 30, 2015 10:16 AM
When we were in college together at PUC, I got drafted into the army at the end of my senior year. Jan was rooming with my brother at the time and had already been in the army, so he gave a lot of good advice how to survive basic training and impress the drill sergeants. I followed his advice, and it worked well. I was given the responsibility in basic training of teaching all the other recruits how to prepare their bunks, foot lockers, and wall lockers for inspection, then I went around with the drill sergeant to conduct inspection and instruct those who were not up to snuff what to do to meet the criteria. I had special privileges during bivouacs and ended up being promoted to E-2 and being nominated for the American Spirit of Honor medal. I really owed it all to Jan's guidance. He clearly knew what he was talking about--as usual.
Jan was a staunch Christian Scientist at the time, but due to positive influences in his life at PUC, including my brother's influence, he ended up converting to Adventism. He has never wavered in his commitment to what he believed is right. An outstanding human being, a godly man who lived his faith, and a true friend.
Jan was a staunch Christian Scientist at the time, but due to positive influences in his life at PUC, including my brother's influence, he ended up converting to Adventism. He has never wavered in his commitment to what he believed is right. An outstanding human being, a godly man who lived his faith, and a true friend.
Message from berlin seaborn
September 30, 2015 10:12 AM
i always enjoyed talking to him at the American legion meetings. so sorry
Message from greg prout
September 29, 2015 11:39 PM
i knew jan at puc and while at gerogia-cumberland. i was a young pastoral intern in cleveland, tn, at the time ( 1975-76 or so). a good man. i am sorrowed at his passing. greg prout
Message from Ed Vitrano
September 29, 2015 11:37 PM
I never met Dr. Haluska but have fond memories of being an Andrews University Academy classmate of Marcia (Opstad) Haluska's in 1969. He must have been something special to be loved by a genuine, gentle woman like her. May you find peace, Marcia. I look forward to greeting you again and shaking his hand at the Second Coming.
Message from Verlyne Starr
September 29, 2015 10:39 AM
Dr. Haluska was a colleague, a friend, and ever an inspiration to achieve excellence. He was a master at blending competence and compassion. His legacy lives in the memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May the day come soon when the trumpet will sound on that glorious resurrection morning.
Verlyne Starr
Verlyne Starr
Message from Edward Georgeson
September 29, 2015 12:58 AM
Dr. Haluska was one of the most memorable and influential professors I had the pleasure of taking a class from. I had the privilege of taking both his English Literature and Ancient Classics classes, and I can vividly remember both of them to this day.
Ancient Classics instilled in me a lasting appreciation and passion for ancient literature and history, I passion that I still exercise today nearly a decade later. His classes were not easy but he inspired me to do my best, I truly learned the material. Dr. Haluska was able to point out insights and spiritual connections with the literature that I have never seen anywhere else.
His intimidating intellect and discipline were mixed with a genuine care for his students, a rare combination. I am grateful to Dr. Haluska for helping me to become the person that I am today and my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
Ancient Classics instilled in me a lasting appreciation and passion for ancient literature and history, I passion that I still exercise today nearly a decade later. His classes were not easy but he inspired me to do my best, I truly learned the material. Dr. Haluska was able to point out insights and spiritual connections with the literature that I have never seen anywhere else.
His intimidating intellect and discipline were mixed with a genuine care for his students, a rare combination. I am grateful to Dr. Haluska for helping me to become the person that I am today and my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
Message from Heidi Tompkins
September 28, 2015 8:01 PM
Mrs. Haluska and family,
There are too many memories to list them all, and posting here seems rather impersonal, but writers will write. Over the last 14 years since I met Dr. Haluska, he has been, by turns, a teacher, a boss, a mentor, a poetry critic, a prayer warrior and a friend.
It's extremely rare to find someone who will pray with you, offer guidance for honing your writing imagery, laugh with you over Stan Freburg comedy routine quotes and put up with your quirks.
He taught me to dig down deeper, choose words more carefully, not be satisfied with the first rhyme in a sonnet that made sense. He taught me the precision of editing and the value and musicality of parallelism.
When my own dad wasn't someone I could turn to for advice, he gave godly, solid life advice and a male perspective that I wouldn't have had otherwise. That has helped me through the ups and downs of the last decade, and I am grateful for that.
I won't forget the way he would exclaim, "My word!" or would grunt when he seriously disagreed with something. Then there's the time he broke into a spontaneous tap dance in Restoration and 18th Century Literature, and the time laughed so hard recounting the ending of Henry Fielding's "The Tragedy of Tragedies" that he was holding his sides.
I won't forget his driving to the Chattanooga Airport at 1 a.m. to give me a ride back to campus after I'd missed a flight and my arranged ride and had to fly in late from an Easter break.
And one year for his birthday, I made him a large batch of banana tortillas, enough to take home and snack on for a while (I thought). The next day, he told me he'd eaten them all right there at the office.
C.S. Lewis once wrote a letter to an absent friend, and I think this sums it up well: "You have a place in my mental world - you are a gap in my inner bookshelf - a drawn tooth in my psychic jaw - a yawning gap, very much to be lamented, in the manuscript of my mind - a broken lace in my spiritual boots - which no one else supplies."
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Heidi Tompkins
There are too many memories to list them all, and posting here seems rather impersonal, but writers will write. Over the last 14 years since I met Dr. Haluska, he has been, by turns, a teacher, a boss, a mentor, a poetry critic, a prayer warrior and a friend.
It's extremely rare to find someone who will pray with you, offer guidance for honing your writing imagery, laugh with you over Stan Freburg comedy routine quotes and put up with your quirks.
He taught me to dig down deeper, choose words more carefully, not be satisfied with the first rhyme in a sonnet that made sense. He taught me the precision of editing and the value and musicality of parallelism.
When my own dad wasn't someone I could turn to for advice, he gave godly, solid life advice and a male perspective that I wouldn't have had otherwise. That has helped me through the ups and downs of the last decade, and I am grateful for that.
I won't forget the way he would exclaim, "My word!" or would grunt when he seriously disagreed with something. Then there's the time he broke into a spontaneous tap dance in Restoration and 18th Century Literature, and the time laughed so hard recounting the ending of Henry Fielding's "The Tragedy of Tragedies" that he was holding his sides.
I won't forget his driving to the Chattanooga Airport at 1 a.m. to give me a ride back to campus after I'd missed a flight and my arranged ride and had to fly in late from an Easter break.
And one year for his birthday, I made him a large batch of banana tortillas, enough to take home and snack on for a while (I thought). The next day, he told me he'd eaten them all right there at the office.
C.S. Lewis once wrote a letter to an absent friend, and I think this sums it up well: "You have a place in my mental world - you are a gap in my inner bookshelf - a drawn tooth in my psychic jaw - a yawning gap, very much to be lamented, in the manuscript of my mind - a broken lace in my spiritual boots - which no one else supplies."
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Heidi Tompkins
Message from Giselle
September 28, 2015 6:00 PM
I will always remember Jan as a man that upheld high standards, as a Christian and in his professional life. I am glad so much is happening around us that remind us of Christ's soon coming. I look forward to meeting him again in heaven. Rest in peace Jan. We'll miss you for a short time.
Message from Frank Maslowski
September 28, 2015 5:46 PM
Dr. Haluska hated hyperbole, but it's not hyperbole to say that this man changed my life in a profound way. He is the sole reason that I am an English teacher today, and his teaching will live on through me and my students. Before every quiz I say "Let's have clean desks and pure hearts!" I often think of him while planning lessons or lecturing. He was a brilliant man and a class act. Thank you sir!
Frank Maslowski
Frank Maslowski
Message from Jessica Cyphers
September 28, 2015 5:25 PM
When I started at Southern, I had no idea what major to choose. I'm so glad that, ultimately, I chose English: English put me in touch with Dr. H.
I was a freshman in Dr. H's Survey of English Literature when I had my rock-climbing accident in 2003. The following year when I returned, Dr. H made a point to welcome me back to his class. I was touched. The following year I was fortunate enough to become Dr. Haluska's reader. I vividly remember the way he'd come into my reader's cubicle while I graded quizzes and tests and ask me how I was. He'd put his hands behind his back and gaze out the window, and comment on a class we'd had that morning, or how he'd gone out shooting over the weekend. He was always kind and generous. He invited me to go shooting with him several times, and I regret that I never took him up on his offer.
Dr. Haluska's influence on my life cannot be summed up in words. I was both intimidated and challenged by his classes. He made me think deeply and hard, and pause before... well, before everything. I loved his motto, "Accurate information, intelligently connected," and nothing made me prouder than to receive a high grade on an essay I wrote for him. He was not an easy teacher, but he was always fair, and a good grade from him really meant something.
In the years following my graduation, Dr. H and I kept in touch via email. After his diagnosis, we talked some about Job. Dr. H had long compared my rock-climbing accident to Job's story, and now he was facing his own Job challenge. He amazed me then as he amazes me now with his deep faith and acceptance of God's will. Dr. H was truly a disciple for Christ, and the fact that's he's now gone... breaks my heart.
Dr. H, you are single-handedly the most influential person in my life, and I am a better person because of you. I think of you all of the time, and have for years, and always will. You were always humble and refused to accept praise, but you have my utmost respect and admiration. You are loved and missed, and I can't wait to talk with you again "on the other side."
Blessings and love to the Haluska family right now and always. These words are not enough, but I offer them wholly. May you find comfort in the Lord's strenghth during this difficult time.
Love,
Jessica Cyphers
I was a freshman in Dr. H's Survey of English Literature when I had my rock-climbing accident in 2003. The following year when I returned, Dr. H made a point to welcome me back to his class. I was touched. The following year I was fortunate enough to become Dr. Haluska's reader. I vividly remember the way he'd come into my reader's cubicle while I graded quizzes and tests and ask me how I was. He'd put his hands behind his back and gaze out the window, and comment on a class we'd had that morning, or how he'd gone out shooting over the weekend. He was always kind and generous. He invited me to go shooting with him several times, and I regret that I never took him up on his offer.
Dr. Haluska's influence on my life cannot be summed up in words. I was both intimidated and challenged by his classes. He made me think deeply and hard, and pause before... well, before everything. I loved his motto, "Accurate information, intelligently connected," and nothing made me prouder than to receive a high grade on an essay I wrote for him. He was not an easy teacher, but he was always fair, and a good grade from him really meant something.
In the years following my graduation, Dr. H and I kept in touch via email. After his diagnosis, we talked some about Job. Dr. H had long compared my rock-climbing accident to Job's story, and now he was facing his own Job challenge. He amazed me then as he amazes me now with his deep faith and acceptance of God's will. Dr. H was truly a disciple for Christ, and the fact that's he's now gone... breaks my heart.
Dr. H, you are single-handedly the most influential person in my life, and I am a better person because of you. I think of you all of the time, and have for years, and always will. You were always humble and refused to accept praise, but you have my utmost respect and admiration. You are loved and missed, and I can't wait to talk with you again "on the other side."
Blessings and love to the Haluska family right now and always. These words are not enough, but I offer them wholly. May you find comfort in the Lord's strenghth during this difficult time.
Love,
Jessica Cyphers
Message from Dee Dee & Michael Boyce
September 28, 2015 2:05 PM
We will miss him. We enjoyed talking with him so very much. His knowledge of history and books was amazing! We met him a few times in Barnes and Noble and had such a great time. We could talk with him for hours! His standards and integrity were empowering to all of us. We know from Derek how loved he was as a teacher. Our hearts are heavy. We are praying for each of you--Marcia, Aaron and Jessica, David and Mindy, and those dear boys! May God's Loving Arms wrap around you. Much Love, Dee Dee & Michael Boyce
Message from Amy Light Altadonna
September 27, 2015 10:23 PM
I took English Lit from Dr. Haluska at Southern in 1992. I was scared to death of him. We all knew if you fell asleep in his class, he would come knock loudly on your desk to wake you up! I was terrified of that happening to me! Lol! But when the day came that I had an unexpected turn in my life, and I had to withdraw from my classes and leave Southern; Dr Haluska prayed with me. I never ever forgot how he cared enough to stop and pray. For me. He didn't even know what was wrong. But he prayed for me. Thank you Dr. Haluska. And to his family, God bless you. He was a good man.
Message from Lynnette Hollenbeck
September 27, 2015 10:19 PM
Loved him and all he taught me and what he stood for. So sad to lose him too soon. Love and prayers to Marsha and the boys!
Lynnette Starr Hollenbeck
Lynnette Starr Hollenbeck
Message from Cindy Hudson
September 27, 2015 5:10 PM
My deepest sympathy to Mrs. Haluska and family. Fond memories of me and my classmates "teaching" Dr. Haluska how to be a teacher, 1974-1975 Georgia-Cumberland Academy. Except he got the final word and taught us so much more then English. Who else, but Dr. Haluska took the cue and jumped on his desk and "surfed" with us when someone dared to call "surf's up!" in his class. He then calmly said "that is the last time that will happen in my class" ... and it was. I have a feeling, real soon, Dr. Haluska will calling his first students - and all the students that followed - to join him for some real surfing on the Sea of Glass.
Hugs and Tears, Cynthia Owens Hudson
Hugs and Tears, Cynthia Owens Hudson
Message from Ernie Brandt
September 27, 2015 4:31 PM
I had the pleasure of taking freshman English from Dr. Haluska over ten years ago at Southern, and I really appreciate everything he taught me. I really enjoyed getting to know him and the opportunity to improve my writing skills. He will be sincerely missed.
Message from Sean Pitman
September 27, 2015 2:06 PM
I found out yesterday on Facebook that one of my favorite professors in college, Dr Jan Haluska, passed away Friday night after a long struggle with cancer.
We had many friendly as well as heated discussions back in the day about everything from Einstein's relativity to religion - and had a good time ribbing each other as well. For example, during my senior year I took one of his English Literature classes as an elective (I didn't need the credits). He had a reputation of being tough, but fair, so he asked me why I elected to take his class? "It's not going to be easy!" he said with his wry half smile. I smiled and replied that I needed another A. He laughed as he slapped my arm - - but I did get the only A in that particular class.
He was such an interesting and gifted teacher, a great man indeed, and I'm very sorry for his loss. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends. He will be deeply missed until that Great Day when we will no longer have to say goodbye like this...
Sean D. Pitman
Seanpit@gmail.com
We had many friendly as well as heated discussions back in the day about everything from Einstein's relativity to religion - and had a good time ribbing each other as well. For example, during my senior year I took one of his English Literature classes as an elective (I didn't need the credits). He had a reputation of being tough, but fair, so he asked me why I elected to take his class? "It's not going to be easy!" he said with his wry half smile. I smiled and replied that I needed another A. He laughed as he slapped my arm - - but I did get the only A in that particular class.
He was such an interesting and gifted teacher, a great man indeed, and I'm very sorry for his loss. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends. He will be deeply missed until that Great Day when we will no longer have to say goodbye like this...
Sean D. Pitman
Seanpit@gmail.com
Message from Melanie Fanelli
September 27, 2015 11:03 AM
Thank you, Dr. Haluska for instilling in me a love for literature and its meaning, for showing discipline through fairness and example, for sharing your insights into teaching, for patiently reading and encouraging my "creative" writing, for allowing me to think and discuss during Sabbath School lessons, for really caring about your students, but mostly for showing Christ living through you. You inspired me to be the successful teacher, friend, wife and mother I am today.
Thoughts and prayers of comfort to Marcia, Aaron, and David. "Come quickly, Lord Jesus!"
Thoughts and prayers of comfort to Marcia, Aaron, and David. "Come quickly, Lord Jesus!"
Message from Kathy Stewart Zimmermann
September 27, 2015 9:27 AM
Dear Mrs. Haluska and Family:
Dr. Haluska was my English professor and my first boss at Southern; but he was much more than that. Because I had no Godly male role model in my life, he filled that place for me. And how I would need that guidance! I praise the Lord for putting me in Dr. Haluska's path because, without him, I don't know where else I would have seen God's love and forgiveness so very clearly. Dr. Haluska knew of my broken sinfulness and reached out to me to let me know that Jesus was fully capable of forgiving and redeeming me. He was an eloquent, powerful tool in God's hands, and I can't wait to see him when Jesus comes!! God bless you all, and you are in my prayers.
Warmly,
Kathy Stewart Zimmermann
Dr. Haluska was my English professor and my first boss at Southern; but he was much more than that. Because I had no Godly male role model in my life, he filled that place for me. And how I would need that guidance! I praise the Lord for putting me in Dr. Haluska's path because, without him, I don't know where else I would have seen God's love and forgiveness so very clearly. Dr. Haluska knew of my broken sinfulness and reached out to me to let me know that Jesus was fully capable of forgiving and redeeming me. He was an eloquent, powerful tool in God's hands, and I can't wait to see him when Jesus comes!! God bless you all, and you are in my prayers.
Warmly,
Kathy Stewart Zimmermann
Message from Lisa E. Reynolds
September 27, 2015 9:07 AM
He thought very carefully about what he believed and why. His great mind allowed for no flabby thinking. Then he lived out his expansive faith with a great big smile and lots of humor. He was both intense and gentle. My first meeting with Jan and Marcia had a great deal to do with why this Jewish girl Is a believer in Christ. That one act of outside-the-box living out their faith in love has resonated through the last 32 years of my life. This great man, perhaps one of the last true Conservatives, will be dearly missed. The Blessed Hope is sweeter still. Lots of love and prayers for the family. Come Lord Jesus, come.
Message from Marian Magoon
September 27, 2015 8:05 AM
Just a simple condolence to you Marcia, and the family. All of you folks were special
to me. One memory that I will always treasure is the Sabbath when Jan and your son helped change a flat tire in the parking lot of the church I love you dearly Marcia, you
are in my prayers
to me. One memory that I will always treasure is the Sabbath when Jan and your son helped change a flat tire in the parking lot of the church I love you dearly Marcia, you
are in my prayers
Message from Jennifer Dalmas
September 27, 2015 7:23 AM
I had interactions with this great man in the classroom and outside the classroom when I worked in the Service Department on campus. He was always kind and will be greatly missed.
Message from Megan Elmendorf
September 26, 2015 9:03 PM
Dr. Haluska always encouraged the best writing and the best living in his students. I personally appreciated his dedication to furthering a student's academic development but more so their spiritual development. He made time for us when we needed to talk, and not just about our horrid writer's block. He genuinely cared for our future careers and also our futures with God. He had sense of honor and integrity and a quiet dignity with which he carried himself. Of course, he wasn't quiet about his opinions when you asked and he never let us get by with shaky foundations in our own opinions or arguments. He will be sorely missed and I know that many lives were enriched through knowing him, my own counted in that number. We will see him again "on the other side of Jordan." My heart and prayers go out to the surviving family members. May God surround you with comfort and strength at this time.
Message from Debbie Sasser
September 26, 2015 8:26 PM
I remember how Dr. Haluska did everything with excellence. He was my writing and literature professor at SAU, and his classes were in high demand. He had the reputation of a professor who teaches in a way that challenges you and makes it difficult to get an "A". It was true. He set a high standard for us students, and this was a good thing! He helped us to see how we could write better, he helped us read for better comprehension and helped us to really dig deep during discussions on literature. His standard of excellence helped us to gain an elevated perspective of success and excellence in ourselves as well. He was highly admired and for good reason. Another area he showed a spirit of excellence was in how he related with students. When we were in a conference with him about the errors we made on our essay or paper, he spoke to us with kindness and never made us feel inferior or like we had failed. He simply offered his help towards improving. He was eager to interact with students, and seemed to genuinely care about our success. These personal interactions revealed gentleness and was where we students could see his devotion to Christ. My deepest sympathy to all his family and close friends. May God give you comfort as only He can. It will be a joy to see Dr. Haluska again when Jesus returns.
Message from ana banos
September 26, 2015 6:36 PM
Mrs. Haluska,
Dr. Haluska was a big influence in my husband's life. He was a passionate man who loved to learn and loved to teach others the love of learning. Gabby has very fond memories of him as well. Once, at a writing conference he had with Bryan, Dr. Haluska taught Gabby how to make the best paper plane in the world! A few years later, he taugh me the same trick in your back porch when Gabbys's class went to your house for lunch. We are so very sad for his passing but as Gabby would say we have the hope of seeing him again soon, "when Jesus comes to take
us all home to where we really belong."
Hugs,
Ana, Bryan, and Gabby Banos
Dr. Haluska was a big influence in my husband's life. He was a passionate man who loved to learn and loved to teach others the love of learning. Gabby has very fond memories of him as well. Once, at a writing conference he had with Bryan, Dr. Haluska taught Gabby how to make the best paper plane in the world! A few years later, he taugh me the same trick in your back porch when Gabbys's class went to your house for lunch. We are so very sad for his passing but as Gabby would say we have the hope of seeing him again soon, "when Jesus comes to take
us all home to where we really belong."
Hugs,
Ana, Bryan, and Gabby Banos
Message from Carmella Vail
September 26, 2015 5:38 PM
Jan Haluska has been our sabbath school teacher for many years as well as a good husband to one of the best second grade teachers around. But, the best memories I have of him was a Sunday morning he took special time out to help my son with some extra credit work in Academy English when he was struggling with a teacher. My son got a view of a man who cared about others and about language that will always be positive.
I know he will be greatly missed and I know we will see him again. I thank God for Mr. Huluskas stories and for his giving heart.
Carmella Vail and family
I know he will be greatly missed and I know we will see him again. I thank God for Mr. Huluskas stories and for his giving heart.
Carmella Vail and family
Message from David Denton
September 26, 2015 5:38 PM
Dr. Jan Haluska was my teacher in both academy and college. He, along with his colleague and philosophical sparring partner, Ora Mae Kirk, planted and nurtured in me a love of words in general and poetry in particular. Dr. Haluska believed absolutely in the value of doing things well--the right way. He challenged me, on more than one level. He gave me a copy of the poem, The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock, and encouraged me to seek out and understand Eliot's intent. I'm still working on that.
I am grateful to have been a student of his.
For a Teacher
You told me first to understand the rules,
To master form before I found my voice.
You gave me Eliot for my wasteland,
A Love Song, and the power of my choice.
I've learned so many rules since last we spoke:
The power when true words in rhythm rhyme,
The truth that can be said in fourteen lines,
The grace of one who gives the gift of time.
But there's a rule I've not yet learned by heart,
Nor plan to (which I'd hope you'd understand).
A rule insisting each of us must yield
In time to fate which no one may withstand.
You served a higher law from realms unseen,
Where no one from this Wasteland's ever been.
I am grateful to have been a student of his.
For a Teacher
You told me first to understand the rules,
To master form before I found my voice.
You gave me Eliot for my wasteland,
A Love Song, and the power of my choice.
I've learned so many rules since last we spoke:
The power when true words in rhythm rhyme,
The truth that can be said in fourteen lines,
The grace of one who gives the gift of time.
But there's a rule I've not yet learned by heart,
Nor plan to (which I'd hope you'd understand).
A rule insisting each of us must yield
In time to fate which no one may withstand.
You served a higher law from realms unseen,
Where no one from this Wasteland's ever been.
Message from Jeannie Haugen Walsh
September 26, 2015 4:59 PM
Mr. Haluska was a wonderful teacher and role model for students of GCA. He had a wonderful way of telling stories that would always bring the whole class to attention. He also taught us about Christ's love for us. He was a wonderful man! Thoughts and prayers for the family, and thank you for sharing your husband and father with us students!
Message from Terri Adams Rice
September 26, 2015 4:09 PM
Kevin and I are sad to hear of Dr. Haluska's passing. Kevin enjoyed being a pupil of Dr. Haluska while a student at GCA and I worked as a receptionist in the English Department while in nursing school at Southern. We both have nothing but fond memories of Dr. Haluska. One that comes to my mind was when I was newly hired at the English Dept. Dr. Haluska called me into his office which was right across from my desk. He pleasantly chatted and then informed me he was going to give me an English and Grammar quiz so he knew he could trust me to grade some of his papers. Who was to blame him, I was a nursing student and we were allowed few, if any, electives in the program to take a Literature class or two. He was pleased that I passed with flying colors and informed me I should have been an English major instead of nursing. He would have been even more pleased to have known at the age of 52, after a career in nursing, I'm writing a thesis to graduate in the spring with a Master's Degree in Humanities with an emphasis in Literature.
Terri Adams Rice
Terri Adams Rice
A candle was lit by Cindy Vermilyea-Talley
on September 26, 2015 2:09 PM
Mr. Haluska was my English teacher at Georgia-Cumberland Academy and he was one of my favorite teachers. He was tough but fair and genuinely cared about his students. He will be missed tremendously, and I am praying for his family.
Cindy Vermilyea-Talley
Mr. Haluska was my English teacher at Georgia-Cumberland Academy and he was one of my favorite teachers. He was tough but fair and genuinely cared about his students. He will be missed tremendously, and I am praying for his family.
Cindy Vermilyea-Talley
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