I know a lot of people who know a LOT about one thing, but the only true polymath in my personal experience has been David Goodwin. On the art faculty at Coe College since 1974, David could speak spontaneously and compellingly about the visual, literary, cinematic, and performing arts. Because of his love for his subject, I loved listening to David talk about anything, but especially art. An instinctual teacher, David’s explanations endowed images and objects from remote cultures and times with an urgent immediacy.

So, conjure the most tritely beautiful spring morning of crystal blue skies and sunshine. Birds are singing and a light breeze gently lifts newly leaved boughs on the trees. This is what it was like this past April when David and I approached each other while passing between buildings on campus. In silent, smiling acknowledgment, we noted the deliciousness of the moment. Then, like a figure in a William Steig illustration, large, ungainly David broke into a joyous skip - his arms swinging from side to side in child-like arcs.

On this past Wednesday, David laid down for a nap, and never awoke. His passing is a colossal blow to the department in which I enjoy the diverse company of people who are dear to me. His presence in our circle is, indeed, irreplaceable.