Every time I hear a song we played in high school band, I say a little prayer of thanks for Mr. Boyce. And bang my desk/steering wheel with my finger mallets.

I was surprised at how many of my classmates responded with stories of their own. Not that I was surprised they’d share my sentiment, I just wasn’t expecting that type of response from a silly update about my finger mallets.

It occurred to me that there are likely dozens of us who feel inspired, thankful, and indebted to Mr. Boyce. I wondered if his family could possibly know the lasting impact his life left behind to so many of his students. So I hoped we might be able to bring our stories together in a way that honors the legacy he left behind, and lets his family know how very much his life mattered, and how very much he is missed.

If you would be so kind as to fill out the following form and include any anecdotes and photos – whether funny, kind, or mildly inappropriate, I will compile a book featuring your stories and photos, and mail it to his family. I will also publish an online version so you can each see it after it’s been completed. A few things to note.

1) If you have more than one story you want to share, please separate each into smaller anecdotes so that each has its own topic.

2) If you have any photos, particularly those that may feature the entire band or Mr. Boyce, that would be appreciated. I have none other than a handful of my friends and I, which wouldn’t be meaningful to his family.

3) If possible, I would like to keep this a surprise for his family. I also need a mailing address for them, so if anyone has or can get that without spilling the beans, let me know.

4) The deadline for submission is February 10, 2012.

I am looking forward to reading your stories, and hope to get a collection from students both before and after me. And let this serve as a good reminder to us to let those who have influenced us know about it while we still have the opportunity.

Story Submission Form