The Walpole High School community and alumni alike recently learned of the passing of the eminent musician, brilliant individual and adored teacher, Michael Falker—the former head of the Music Department for the Walpole School District.  Teaching at Walpole High School for over 40 years, Mr. Falker taught orchestra, band, chorus and choir classes before retiring in 2014.  Known for his deep voice, crazy hair, and his genuine personality, Mr. Falker died suddenly on April 10.

A memorial tribute for Mr. Falker will be held on June 16 at 7 p.m. at the Norwood Theater, where the Town of Walpole, along with those impacted by Mr. Falker, can pay honor to his longstanding commitment to the Walpole Community.

“Mike Falker was one-of-a-kind. He was a true genius when it came to teaching students, and the students loved him,” said WHS Principal Stephen Imbusch. “Walpole is a better place because of him, and he will be missed.”

For now, with heavy hearts, students, teachers and companions of Mr. Falker continue to band together to remember all of the wonderful memories they shared with their friend. Specifically through Facebook, they have utilized a group page, including over 600 members, where they can share thoughts and photos of Mr. Falker.

”He was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had,” said Sam McChesney, a member of the Class of 2013. “He was my teacher in my awkward middle school days all the way through my senior year of high school, and he was always a great support system.”

While Mr. Falker may no longer walk the halls of Walpole High, his influence remains steadfast among the student body.

“As one of my favorite people, he showed me one of the great secrets he hid in his big head of hair: if you pursue what you love, you’ll end up surrounded by people who love you, and in that you will find happiness,” said senior Ariana Chariton.

Mr. Falker developed strong bonds with many students because he was their teacher for consecutive years from elementary school to high school.

“Falker’s string students had a unique relationship with him because we had him as our teacher for nine years in a row.  He was a source of constancy, that one comforting figure who never changed and always had our backs when we needed him,” said Josh Cofsky, a member of the Class of 2011.

The current music students at Walpole High performed in their spring concert on April 15, only a few short days after hearing the news about their former teacher.  To honor him, current Music Program Director Kenneth Gable dedicated the concert to his predecessor.

“The days prior to [the concert] were long and emotional for many, and knowing the concert was for him pushed all the musicians to work their hardest,” said senior Emma Campbell. “They were determined to put on a performance that he would have been proud of.”

Students are also hoping to recognize Mr. Falker for more than just his support of the music program:  Mr. Falker participated in various Film Festival movies throughout the years, and so, the Creative Arts Documentary crew, directed by junior Max Simons and senior Nell Gordan, is dedicating their movie to Mr. Falker this year.

“He touched so many lives. He touched mine,” said Mrs. Maccini Pavloff, Chorus teacher for Walpole Middle Schools and colleague of Mr. Falker for nearly 20 years,  “He was so passionate and we all learned so much from him. Beyond his gruff exterior and eccentricity there was a heart of gold.”

Contributions to the Michael Falker Scholarship Fund can be made out to Walpole Public Schools, 275 Common Street, Walpole MA 02081.