I cried when I learned today of Herr Krebs' death. I was one of his very first students. I was blessed to be in German 1 as Herr Krebs began his student teaching! Even at the very beginning, he was the consummate professional: organized, prepared, hard-working, dedicated, enthusiastic, and passionate about all things German! He conveyed that he cared deeply about his family, his teaching, and his students. He set high yet achievable expectations for all his students. After two years of German with Herr Krebs, I was placed in a German class my freshman year at Duke University with graduate students, not knowing a word of German before encountering Herr Krebs. As others have mentioned, I too find myself singing songs learned in class (e.g.: Muss ich denn!) I have continued to practice and study German while visiting my relatives in Muenchen, Wien, and Bratislava, participating in German MeetUp groups, and very recently, studying intensive German immersion for 2 summers in Wien, while working on my late life PhD studies. I am a member of the Raleigh Little German Dancers, where we perform German folk dances. A touch of his passion for all things German/Austrian lives on in me. Although I have had other good teachers over the years, Robert is still THE very best teacher I have ever had! To his grieving family, I extend my both my heartfelt condolences and gratitude,for your having a hand in shaping a man who touched so many lives, so positively, over the years. I only wish there could have been far more years with him in this world. The world needs far more individuals like Robert. I am truly a better person for having known Robert Krebs. I will miss his cherished letters written on beautiful cards, saved, cherished and re-read. A piece of Robert lives on in me, as Herr Krebs helped and inspired me to be a better person, a better scholar, and a better teacher. Meine aufrichtige Abteilnahme zum Tode. Mary Margaret Samson, PhD Smithtown HS Class of 1972