George D. Pyper
Born: 21 November 1860
Called as Second Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday School: 1918
Called as General Superintendent of the Sunday School: 1934
Died: 17 January 1943
Called as Second Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday School: 1918
Called as General Superintendent of the Sunday School: 1934
Died: 17 January 1943
Image source: Improvement Era, September 1903
Image source: Juvenile Instructor, August 1924
Image source: Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Image source: Instructor, February 1943
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Image source: Family Search, public domain
Image source: Relief Society Magazine, February 1919
Image source: Instructor, March 1937
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Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 1
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Improvement Era, September 1903, George D. Pyper - A Sketch
Relief Society Magazine, February 1919, The New General Superintendency of Sunday Schools
Juvenile Instructor, August 1924, In Honor of George D. Pyper
Improvement Era, February 1934, George D. Pyper
Instructor, March 1937, General Superintendent George Dollinger Pyper
Instructor, September 1940, Faith Promoting Sketches - "Did Not Our Hearts Burn Within Us?"
Relief Society Magazine, December 1940, Elder George D. Pyper
Instructor, February 1943, George D. Pyper
Instructor, February 1943, Tributes to George D. Pyper
Relief Society Magazine, February 1943, George D. Pyper
Improvement Era, March 1943, George D. Pyper
Instructor, July 1943, To George D. Pyper
Instructor, June 1949, Tribute to George D. Pyper
Instructor, June 1949, George Dollinger Pyper
Instructor, February 1970, Ripples - George D. Pyper Greeted Heartaches with a Smile
Instructor, October 1970, Inspiration from the Lives of Eight Men - George D. Pyper
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Improvement Era, September 1903, George D. Pyper - A Sketch
Relief Society Magazine, February 1919, The New General Superintendency of Sunday Schools
Juvenile Instructor, August 1924, In Honor of George D. Pyper
Improvement Era, February 1934, George D. Pyper
Instructor, March 1937, General Superintendent George Dollinger Pyper
Instructor, September 1940, Faith Promoting Sketches - "Did Not Our Hearts Burn Within Us?"
Relief Society Magazine, December 1940, Elder George D. Pyper
Instructor, February 1943, George D. Pyper
Instructor, February 1943, Tributes to George D. Pyper
Relief Society Magazine, February 1943, George D. Pyper
Improvement Era, March 1943, George D. Pyper
Instructor, July 1943, To George D. Pyper
Instructor, June 1949, Tribute to George D. Pyper
Instructor, June 1949, George Dollinger Pyper
Instructor, February 1970, Ripples - George D. Pyper Greeted Heartaches with a Smile
Instructor, October 1970, Inspiration from the Lives of Eight Men - George D. Pyper
Jenson, Andrew. "Pyper, George Dollinger." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 1. pg. 669-670.
PYPER, George Dollinger, a prominent Elder of the Eighteenth Ward, Salt Lake City, is a son of the late Bishop Alexander C. Pyper and Christiana Dollinger, and was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Nov. 21, 1860. He was baptized when eight years of age, officiated for some time as a Deacon and was ordained to the office of an Elder in 1883. In that year, also, he was married to Miss Emmaretta S. Whitney. Since his early youth he has taken an active part in public life. He has also labored diligently in Ward capacities, and has always been a very energetic Sunday School worker. He has occupied positions as general secretary of the Y. M. M. I. A., secretary of the First Council of Seventies and secretary of the Deseret Sunday School Union, and he is still serving in the last named position, being also a member of the Deseret Sunday School Board and manager of the "Juvenile Instructor." In 1896 he filled a special mission to the United States in company with Elder Brigham H. Roberts. For some years, as a boy, under the direction of his father, he worked successfully in the silk industry. He was for some time in the employ of Z. C. M. I., and from 1875 to 1882 was clerk of the police court. He was elected a justice of the peace in 1884, and while holding that office found time to take a course of study at the Deseret University. He held the office of alderman and police judge from 1886 to 1890. Among other responsible positions in the community which he has held are the following: Manager of the "Contributor" magazine in 1890-91; assistant secretary and later secretary of the Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society; while holding this position he has taken part in the management of several successful Territorial fairs. In May, 1893, he was chosen by the D. A. and M. Society to go to the World's Fair in charge of a portion of the Territorial exhibit, and he remained in Chicago until the close of the exposition. In 1897 he prepared as special commissioner a State exhibit for the Tennessee centennial exposition and spent eight months at Nashville. For the past twenty-five years he has taken a prominent part in musical affairs, his services and much of his time having been given to the public. Some idea of the extent of this service can be gathered from the fact that he has sung at upwards of one thousand funerals of members of the Church. He has Bung the leading tenor parts in some twenty operas, and In 1898 he became manager of the Salt Lake theatre, which has prospered under his management, and he still holds that position.
PYPER, George Dollinger, a prominent Elder of the Eighteenth Ward, Salt Lake City, is a son of the late Bishop Alexander C. Pyper and Christiana Dollinger, and was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Nov. 21, 1860. He was baptized when eight years of age, officiated for some time as a Deacon and was ordained to the office of an Elder in 1883. In that year, also, he was married to Miss Emmaretta S. Whitney. Since his early youth he has taken an active part in public life. He has also labored diligently in Ward capacities, and has always been a very energetic Sunday School worker. He has occupied positions as general secretary of the Y. M. M. I. A., secretary of the First Council of Seventies and secretary of the Deseret Sunday School Union, and he is still serving in the last named position, being also a member of the Deseret Sunday School Board and manager of the "Juvenile Instructor." In 1896 he filled a special mission to the United States in company with Elder Brigham H. Roberts. For some years, as a boy, under the direction of his father, he worked successfully in the silk industry. He was for some time in the employ of Z. C. M. I., and from 1875 to 1882 was clerk of the police court. He was elected a justice of the peace in 1884, and while holding that office found time to take a course of study at the Deseret University. He held the office of alderman and police judge from 1886 to 1890. Among other responsible positions in the community which he has held are the following: Manager of the "Contributor" magazine in 1890-91; assistant secretary and later secretary of the Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society; while holding this position he has taken part in the management of several successful Territorial fairs. In May, 1893, he was chosen by the D. A. and M. Society to go to the World's Fair in charge of a portion of the Territorial exhibit, and he remained in Chicago until the close of the exposition. In 1897 he prepared as special commissioner a State exhibit for the Tennessee centennial exposition and spent eight months at Nashville. For the past twenty-five years he has taken a prominent part in musical affairs, his services and much of his time having been given to the public. Some idea of the extent of this service can be gathered from the fact that he has sung at upwards of one thousand funerals of members of the Church. He has Bung the leading tenor parts in some twenty operas, and In 1898 he became manager of the Salt Lake theatre, which has prospered under his management, and he still holds that position.
Jenson, Andrew. "Pyper, George Dollinger." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 220-221.
PYPER, George Bollinger, general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, was born Nov. 21, 1860, in Salt Lake City, Utah, a son of Alexander C. Pyper and Christiana Dollinger. He was baptized when eight years old, officiated in the offices of the Aaronic Priesthood and was ordained an Elder in 1883, and later ordained a High Priest. In 1901 a sketch of Elder Pyper's life was published in the Biographical Encyclopedia Vol 1, p. 669. Since that time he continued to act as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre until 1929, when the edifice was torn down. For a period of over thirty years he had brought to the people the finest attractions the stage afforded and during that period also brought to the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, many world-famed artists and musical organizations. In 1928 he published the story of the Salt Lake Theatre and early drama in Salt Lake, under the title of "The Romance of An Old Playhouse." Among the side activities he was a member of the first Salt Lake Board of Education, and of the first City Library Board; also president of the Salt Lake Oratorio Society and Musical Arts and Civic Music Association, and since its organization has been first assistant to Elder Melvin J. Ballard in the Church Music committee. In 1909 he installed a Church exhibit in the Government Building at the Alaska-Yukon Exposition at Seattle, Washington. The models of the temple and tabernacle used at that fair were taken to the Smithsonian Institute at Washington, D. C, and recently have been shown at the Century of Progress in Chicago, and the San Diego expositions. Elder Pyper was chairman of the Century of Progress Church committee and in consultation with the Fairbanks family (J. B., J. Leo and Arvard) supervised the preparation of that wonderful exhibit.
In November, 1911, Elder Pyper managed the Tabernacle Choir in a 6000 mile tour to the National Irrigation Congress held in Madison Square Garden, New York City, and extended the tour to Washington and other cities of the United States. On this tour the choir sang before Pres. Taft in the White House. In 1934 he conducted the tour of the choir to the Century of Progress Fair in Chicago, where it sang for a week at the Ford auditorium. In 1929 he was named as chairman of the L. D. S. Pageant Committee which produced the great spectacle "The Message of the Ages" in the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, April 6, 1930, as part of the exercises celebrating the one hundredth anniversary of the organization of the Church. The pageant involved 1500 people, ran for 30 nights and was witnessed by approximately 200,000 people. Following the pageant Bro. Pyper visited the Hawaiian Islands in the interest of the Sunday schools and the Y. M. M. I. A. He was among the early flyers from Hilo to Honolulu. Since January, 1910—a period of 27 years—he has been associate editor of "The Juvenile Instructor," now "The Instructor."
When Elder David O. McKay was appointed general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union in 1918, he chose Elders Stephen L. Richards as his first, and George D. Pyper as his second assistant. This position Elder Pyper held until Oct. 30, 1934, when he was set apart as general superintendent, with Elders Milton Bennion and George R. Hill as assistants. At this writing he is well and active though far beyond the biblical three score and ten.
PYPER, George Bollinger, general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, was born Nov. 21, 1860, in Salt Lake City, Utah, a son of Alexander C. Pyper and Christiana Dollinger. He was baptized when eight years old, officiated in the offices of the Aaronic Priesthood and was ordained an Elder in 1883, and later ordained a High Priest. In 1901 a sketch of Elder Pyper's life was published in the Biographical Encyclopedia Vol 1, p. 669. Since that time he continued to act as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre until 1929, when the edifice was torn down. For a period of over thirty years he had brought to the people the finest attractions the stage afforded and during that period also brought to the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, many world-famed artists and musical organizations. In 1928 he published the story of the Salt Lake Theatre and early drama in Salt Lake, under the title of "The Romance of An Old Playhouse." Among the side activities he was a member of the first Salt Lake Board of Education, and of the first City Library Board; also president of the Salt Lake Oratorio Society and Musical Arts and Civic Music Association, and since its organization has been first assistant to Elder Melvin J. Ballard in the Church Music committee. In 1909 he installed a Church exhibit in the Government Building at the Alaska-Yukon Exposition at Seattle, Washington. The models of the temple and tabernacle used at that fair were taken to the Smithsonian Institute at Washington, D. C, and recently have been shown at the Century of Progress in Chicago, and the San Diego expositions. Elder Pyper was chairman of the Century of Progress Church committee and in consultation with the Fairbanks family (J. B., J. Leo and Arvard) supervised the preparation of that wonderful exhibit.
In November, 1911, Elder Pyper managed the Tabernacle Choir in a 6000 mile tour to the National Irrigation Congress held in Madison Square Garden, New York City, and extended the tour to Washington and other cities of the United States. On this tour the choir sang before Pres. Taft in the White House. In 1934 he conducted the tour of the choir to the Century of Progress Fair in Chicago, where it sang for a week at the Ford auditorium. In 1929 he was named as chairman of the L. D. S. Pageant Committee which produced the great spectacle "The Message of the Ages" in the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, April 6, 1930, as part of the exercises celebrating the one hundredth anniversary of the organization of the Church. The pageant involved 1500 people, ran for 30 nights and was witnessed by approximately 200,000 people. Following the pageant Bro. Pyper visited the Hawaiian Islands in the interest of the Sunday schools and the Y. M. M. I. A. He was among the early flyers from Hilo to Honolulu. Since January, 1910—a period of 27 years—he has been associate editor of "The Juvenile Instructor," now "The Instructor."
When Elder David O. McKay was appointed general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union in 1918, he chose Elders Stephen L. Richards as his first, and George D. Pyper as his second assistant. This position Elder Pyper held until Oct. 30, 1934, when he was set apart as general superintendent, with Elders Milton Bennion and George R. Hill as assistants. At this writing he is well and active though far beyond the biblical three score and ten.
Anderson, Edward H. "George D. Pyper." Improvement Era. September 1903. pg. 843-844.
GEORGE D. PYPER.
BY EDWARD H. ANDERSON.
George D. Pyper, of whom we present a good portrait in this number of the Era, was appointed general secretary of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations in October, 1890, in which capacity he continued to act until the appointment of Thomas Hull, the present incumbent, in 1896. He has also served as secretary of the First Council of Seventy, and is at present secretary and a member of the General Sunday School Union Board. The Juvenile Instructor, organ of the Sunday Schools, is now prospering under his management. The Salt Lake Theatre is also in his care, he having been business manager of that institution since 1898. He assisted Drs. M. H. Hardy and Geo. H. Brimhall in the publication of the first Manual for the M. I. A.; and was appointed a member of the committee on address and recommendations for future policy of the M. I. A., which resulted in the single lesson Manual.
Elder George Dollinger Pyper is the son of the late Bishop Alexander C. Pyper and Christiana Dollinger, and was born in Salt Lake City, November 21, 1860. At the age of eight years, he was baptized, shortly thereafter officiating as a deacon, and was later ordained an elder, in 1883. He married Emmaretta S. Whitney in the same year. Since his early youth he has taken an active part in public life, civilly, in a business capacity, and religiously. In the auxiliary associations of the Church, he has particularly taken great interest, being an active and energetic Sunday School worker, as well as a member and worker in Mutual Improvement associations. In 1896, he was called to fill a special mission in the United States, in company with Elder Brigham H. Roberts, traveling extensively in the large cities of the Eastern States, fulfilling this mission honorably, especially rendering valuable service in singing.
He began his career as a boy in the silk industry, working successfully in this vocation under the direction of his father, who was one of the first to demonstrate the possibility of successfully raising silk in Utah. From 1875 to 1882, he was clerk in the police court, having previously for some time been in the employ of Z. C. M. I. In 1884, he was elected a justice of the peace, and it was while he held this office that he found time to take a course of study in the University of Deseret, now Utah. From 1886 to 1890, he held an office of alderman and police judge in Salt Lake City. He was the manager of the Contributor magazine in 1890-1. He was also assistant secretary and later secretary of the Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society, taking part while he held this office in the management of several successful territorial fairs; and when, in 1893, Utah exhibited at the World's Fair, at Chicago, he was chosen by the D. A. and M. Society to take charge of a portion of the territorial exhibit, which he did, remaining in Chicago until the close of the exposition. As special commissioner for the Tennessee Centennial Exhibition, in 1897, he prepared a very creditable state display for Utah, spending eight months at Nashville, Tennessee.
In a musical line, Elder Pyper is one of the sweet singers of Zion, having taken a prominent part in musical affairs in Utah for the past twenty-five years, his services and a great deal of his time having always been given to the public gratuitously. He has sung at upwards of one thousand funerals of members of the Church, besides visiting many of the surrounding stakes of Zion, where the Saints have rejoiced in his song. In addition, he has taken part in some twenty operas, and, in his capacity as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, has taken great interest in providing legitimate amusement for the public of Salt Lake City. He is a young man of energy and ability; a good worker, zealous, enthusiastic, and a man whose character the young people need have no hesitancy in emulating.
GEORGE D. PYPER.
BY EDWARD H. ANDERSON.
George D. Pyper, of whom we present a good portrait in this number of the Era, was appointed general secretary of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations in October, 1890, in which capacity he continued to act until the appointment of Thomas Hull, the present incumbent, in 1896. He has also served as secretary of the First Council of Seventy, and is at present secretary and a member of the General Sunday School Union Board. The Juvenile Instructor, organ of the Sunday Schools, is now prospering under his management. The Salt Lake Theatre is also in his care, he having been business manager of that institution since 1898. He assisted Drs. M. H. Hardy and Geo. H. Brimhall in the publication of the first Manual for the M. I. A.; and was appointed a member of the committee on address and recommendations for future policy of the M. I. A., which resulted in the single lesson Manual.
Elder George Dollinger Pyper is the son of the late Bishop Alexander C. Pyper and Christiana Dollinger, and was born in Salt Lake City, November 21, 1860. At the age of eight years, he was baptized, shortly thereafter officiating as a deacon, and was later ordained an elder, in 1883. He married Emmaretta S. Whitney in the same year. Since his early youth he has taken an active part in public life, civilly, in a business capacity, and religiously. In the auxiliary associations of the Church, he has particularly taken great interest, being an active and energetic Sunday School worker, as well as a member and worker in Mutual Improvement associations. In 1896, he was called to fill a special mission in the United States, in company with Elder Brigham H. Roberts, traveling extensively in the large cities of the Eastern States, fulfilling this mission honorably, especially rendering valuable service in singing.
He began his career as a boy in the silk industry, working successfully in this vocation under the direction of his father, who was one of the first to demonstrate the possibility of successfully raising silk in Utah. From 1875 to 1882, he was clerk in the police court, having previously for some time been in the employ of Z. C. M. I. In 1884, he was elected a justice of the peace, and it was while he held this office that he found time to take a course of study in the University of Deseret, now Utah. From 1886 to 1890, he held an office of alderman and police judge in Salt Lake City. He was the manager of the Contributor magazine in 1890-1. He was also assistant secretary and later secretary of the Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society, taking part while he held this office in the management of several successful territorial fairs; and when, in 1893, Utah exhibited at the World's Fair, at Chicago, he was chosen by the D. A. and M. Society to take charge of a portion of the territorial exhibit, which he did, remaining in Chicago until the close of the exposition. As special commissioner for the Tennessee Centennial Exhibition, in 1897, he prepared a very creditable state display for Utah, spending eight months at Nashville, Tennessee.
In a musical line, Elder Pyper is one of the sweet singers of Zion, having taken a prominent part in musical affairs in Utah for the past twenty-five years, his services and a great deal of his time having always been given to the public gratuitously. He has sung at upwards of one thousand funerals of members of the Church, besides visiting many of the surrounding stakes of Zion, where the Saints have rejoiced in his song. In addition, he has taken part in some twenty operas, and, in his capacity as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, has taken great interest in providing legitimate amusement for the public of Salt Lake City. He is a young man of energy and ability; a good worker, zealous, enthusiastic, and a man whose character the young people need have no hesitancy in emulating.
Morton, William A. "The New General Superintendency of Sunday Schools - S. L. Richards, David O. McKay, George D. Pyper." Relief Society Magazine. February 1919. pg. 77-78.
The New General Superintendency of Sunday Schools. William A. Morton of the General Sunday School Board. When the announcement was made that Elder David O. McKay, of the Council of Twelve, had been chosen to succeed the late President Joseph F. Smith as General Superintendent of the Sunday Schools of the Church, expressions of hearty approval were heard on every hand. No better selection could have been made, for, apart from his calling as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, Elder McKay is, above all else, a Sunday School man. He was cradled in the Sunday School ; in his childhood it was his nursery; in his youth his guiding star. His love for the cause, his long years of devoted service to it, the great experience he had acquired as an officer and also as assistant to President Joseph F. Smith, fully qualified him for the exalted position to which he has been called. His love for little children is unbounded, and he possesses the rare gift of being "able to reach them." We have seen hundreds of little ones sit spell-bound while he taught them the ways of the Lord, and told them about the blessings which he as an individual had received from his heavenly Father. In Superintendent McKay, the youth of Zion have a father and a friend. Around the neck of many a wayward boy his big, brotherly arm has been placed while he pleaded with the erring one to forsake the paths of sin and to turn his feet into the ways of righteousness. He has been the means in the hands of the Lord of bringing peace to many a troubled conscience, joy to many an aching heart, and sunshine into many a home that had been darkened for years. He is loved and honored by all who know him, and their name is legion. He has the faith and prayers of all Israel that the Lord may continue to bless him and give him much joy and success in the work to which he has consecrated his life. As might have been expected, when Elder McKay was chosen General Superintendent, Elder Stephen L. Richards, also of the Council of the Twelve, was chosen as his first assistant. The .souls of these two men are knit as closely together as were the souls of David and Jonathan and Joseph and Hyrum. We know of no tetter team of Church workers. Elder Richards, like his file leader, has had many years of experience in Sunday School work. He is. a man of good, sound judgment, and .during the years he has been in the Superintendency he has assisted materially in .bringing the Sunday School work up to its present high ,state of perfection. He-is a man of sterling character, and his life is an inspiration to all Church workers. His presence at Sunday School conventions and conferences is always hailed with delight, for officers and teachers know that they will receive from him the help they need in order to make their labors more successful. We extend to Elder Richards our hearty congratulations, and wish him continued success in his ministry. With the elevation of Elder Stephen L. Richards to the office of First Assistant Superintendent, the genial Secretary of the Deseret Sunday School Union Board, Elder George D. Pyper, also received well-earned recognition, he having been chosen to fill the office of Second Assistant Superintendent. This appointment has also met with universal favor. His experience of many years as General Secretary of the Union Board has made Brother Pyper familiar with Sunday School work, and has thoroughly qualified him for his new position. He is beloved by all who know him for his breadth of vision, his soulful music, his cheerfulness, his kindness, his wide sympathy, his brotherly love, and many other virtues. In him the Sunday Schools of the Church have a valuable asset. Long may he live to put sunshine into the souls of his fellow-mortals, and to point out to the young, in song and story, the way to a still higher and a better life. |
S. L. Richards
David O. McKay
Geo. D. Pyper
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Reiser, A. H. "In Honor of George D. Pyper." Juvenile Instructor. August 1924. pg. 406-407.
In Honor of George D. Pyper
By A. H. Reiser
The Summer Outing of the General Board held Wednesday, June 25, 1924, at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City was the occasion for paying tribute to Superintendent George D. Pyper, a Sunday School worker of rare ability with an enviable record of service to his credit.
Brother Pyper is in the prime of his usefulness as a Sunday School worker. He has served in one capacity or another on the General Board for nearly thirty years, first as a member of the Board, later—for twenty-five years—as General Secretary, and for nearly six years he has been second assistant in the General Superintendency. He at one time acted as business manager of the Juvenile Instructor, and for twelve years has been editor of the magazine.
His long experience, his natural ability, his profound love for young people and his natural endowment of a youthful heart are the qualities testified to by his fellow Board members, which make him one of our preeminent authorities on Sunday School work.
His life of enlightened interests, great activity and rare achievement was unfolded by members of the Board, who responded to toasts on the occasion. C. B. Felt, who knew him as a young man, spoke of him as such. John F. Bennett, who has been a member of the Board for nearly thirty years, spoke of him as a member of the General Board. C. H. Hart, another member with a long record of service, extolled his virtues as a secretary. His attainments in the General Superintendency were lauded by H. H. Rolapp, another veteran. A personal experience "before Judge Pyper" qualified Hugh J. Cannon to speak upon that subject. T. Albert Hooper, who served as business manager of the Juvenile Instructor, praised him for his service as editor. Robert L. Judd, a neighbor, bore witness of his kindliness and integrity as a neighbor and citizen. William A. Morton paid tribute to him as a Latter-day Saint. A. E. Bowen expressed his admiration and esteem for him as a friend. George M. Cannon, himself a great lover of nature, spoke appreciatively of Brother Pyper and the love of nature which they held in common. And Adam S. Bennion portrayed his charm as a musician and actor, recalling Brother Pyper in operatic roles and as a solo singer.
A. C. Rees, as toastmaster, reflected many interesting sidelights from the careers of these brethren and of Brother Pyper.
And still more might have been said of George D. Pyper, as General Secretary of the Y. M. M. I. A., Secretary of the First Council of Seventy, Secretary of the Utah State Fair Association, as manager of the Contributor and as manager of the Salt Lake Theater. For in these positions his rare ability has been creditably manifested. For eight years he was manager of the Musical Arts Society, an organization which has been instrumental in bringing many world-famed artists to Salt Lake City.
To Superintendent Pyper's genius as a master of dramatic technic the Sunday Schools owe a generous measure of credit for the successes achieved with the semi-annual conference programs of the Deseret Sunday School Union. Prominently among these successes the International Recitation of the Articles of Faith, Voices from the Dust, or Messages of Book of Mormon Prophets, and the program developing the theme, Jesus the Christ, will be remembered.
Speaking of his love for humanity as manifested by his conduct among men, his devoted, tireless and unselfish service in great humanitarian causes, and his unstinted contributions of time, talent and treasure to the cultural, religious and artistic movements of the community. First Assistant General Supt. Stephen L. Richards presented to Brother Pyper, on behalf of his fellow Board members and as a token of their love and esteem for him, a handsome wardrobe suitcase.
In a characteristically beautiful and appropriate response. Brother Pyper bespoke his love for the Sunday School cause and for his fellow laborers and his determination, with the help of the Lord, to devote himself to the service to the end of his days.
It was the unanimous feeling that this celebration was one of the most enjoyable ever held by the General Board. The excellent luncheon prepared by the wives of the members of the Board and served to 56 guests, and the program of games conducted by T. Albert Hooper, and the singing led by P. Melvin Petersen contributed liberally to its success. The whole occasion was enriched by the spirit of greater fellowship which it engendered. The outing was planned as a complete surprise to Superintendent Pyper.
The power of this occasion in strengthening the bonds of unity and fellowship among the members of the Board, causes the General Board to renew its recommendation to stake and ward Sunday School workers to "Go thou and do likewise." On such occasions devoted Sunday School workers of the past and present may be fittingly honored.
In Honor of George D. Pyper
By A. H. Reiser
The Summer Outing of the General Board held Wednesday, June 25, 1924, at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City was the occasion for paying tribute to Superintendent George D. Pyper, a Sunday School worker of rare ability with an enviable record of service to his credit.
Brother Pyper is in the prime of his usefulness as a Sunday School worker. He has served in one capacity or another on the General Board for nearly thirty years, first as a member of the Board, later—for twenty-five years—as General Secretary, and for nearly six years he has been second assistant in the General Superintendency. He at one time acted as business manager of the Juvenile Instructor, and for twelve years has been editor of the magazine.
His long experience, his natural ability, his profound love for young people and his natural endowment of a youthful heart are the qualities testified to by his fellow Board members, which make him one of our preeminent authorities on Sunday School work.
His life of enlightened interests, great activity and rare achievement was unfolded by members of the Board, who responded to toasts on the occasion. C. B. Felt, who knew him as a young man, spoke of him as such. John F. Bennett, who has been a member of the Board for nearly thirty years, spoke of him as a member of the General Board. C. H. Hart, another member with a long record of service, extolled his virtues as a secretary. His attainments in the General Superintendency were lauded by H. H. Rolapp, another veteran. A personal experience "before Judge Pyper" qualified Hugh J. Cannon to speak upon that subject. T. Albert Hooper, who served as business manager of the Juvenile Instructor, praised him for his service as editor. Robert L. Judd, a neighbor, bore witness of his kindliness and integrity as a neighbor and citizen. William A. Morton paid tribute to him as a Latter-day Saint. A. E. Bowen expressed his admiration and esteem for him as a friend. George M. Cannon, himself a great lover of nature, spoke appreciatively of Brother Pyper and the love of nature which they held in common. And Adam S. Bennion portrayed his charm as a musician and actor, recalling Brother Pyper in operatic roles and as a solo singer.
A. C. Rees, as toastmaster, reflected many interesting sidelights from the careers of these brethren and of Brother Pyper.
And still more might have been said of George D. Pyper, as General Secretary of the Y. M. M. I. A., Secretary of the First Council of Seventy, Secretary of the Utah State Fair Association, as manager of the Contributor and as manager of the Salt Lake Theater. For in these positions his rare ability has been creditably manifested. For eight years he was manager of the Musical Arts Society, an organization which has been instrumental in bringing many world-famed artists to Salt Lake City.
To Superintendent Pyper's genius as a master of dramatic technic the Sunday Schools owe a generous measure of credit for the successes achieved with the semi-annual conference programs of the Deseret Sunday School Union. Prominently among these successes the International Recitation of the Articles of Faith, Voices from the Dust, or Messages of Book of Mormon Prophets, and the program developing the theme, Jesus the Christ, will be remembered.
Speaking of his love for humanity as manifested by his conduct among men, his devoted, tireless and unselfish service in great humanitarian causes, and his unstinted contributions of time, talent and treasure to the cultural, religious and artistic movements of the community. First Assistant General Supt. Stephen L. Richards presented to Brother Pyper, on behalf of his fellow Board members and as a token of their love and esteem for him, a handsome wardrobe suitcase.
In a characteristically beautiful and appropriate response. Brother Pyper bespoke his love for the Sunday School cause and for his fellow laborers and his determination, with the help of the Lord, to devote himself to the service to the end of his days.
It was the unanimous feeling that this celebration was one of the most enjoyable ever held by the General Board. The excellent luncheon prepared by the wives of the members of the Board and served to 56 guests, and the program of games conducted by T. Albert Hooper, and the singing led by P. Melvin Petersen contributed liberally to its success. The whole occasion was enriched by the spirit of greater fellowship which it engendered. The outing was planned as a complete surprise to Superintendent Pyper.
The power of this occasion in strengthening the bonds of unity and fellowship among the members of the Board, causes the General Board to renew its recommendation to stake and ward Sunday School workers to "Go thou and do likewise." On such occasions devoted Sunday School workers of the past and present may be fittingly honored.
Noall, Claire W. "George D. Pyper." Improvement Era. February 1934. pg. 68-71, 89-90.
George D. Pyper Friend of the Arts – Singer – Actor – Editor – Theatre Manager In this article our readers will get a close-up view of the many activities of one of the most lovable characters in the Mormon Church. THE character of Utah following its founding by the Mormons was distinctly colored by the way in which the Church developed its social life by fostering music and drama. These arts, a precious heritage to the State, have been emphasized in each generation, and have afforded many remarkable opportunities for self-expression among the people. Shining through the artistic expression of the Church is the name of George D. Pyper, which for half a century and more, has been linked with the best we have had in music and drama. Like the mellow glow of an Indian Summer day is the autumn of George D. Pyper's life — rich and warm with kindliness, love, and spirituality. The gentle accent of his voice denotes his character. To talk with him is to realize that he is a man whose days have been beautified with the spirit of God. To look into his venerable face is to know intuitively that here is a man whose way of living has been harmonized with peace and understanding. And yet the pages in his book of life have been filled with fascinating episodes! There has been no period of his existence which has not been replete with interesting activities. For the past fifteen years Mr. Pyper has been a member of the General Superintendency of the Sunday School of the Latter-day Saint Church with Superintendent David O. McKay and Stephen L. Richards; for thirty-five years he has worked on the General Board of that institution. As a young man, strange to say, he was judge of the police court in Salt Lake City. For more than a quarter of a century he was manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, but like the clear tones of an obligato, music has been the constant accompaniment of his life. He has sung always. Inevitably and irresistibly, no matter what his daily occupation might be, he has affiliated with one musical organization after another. He first studied voice with Professor George Careless and trained in choral work with Professor Evan Stephens. He was choir leader for eight years in the Twelfth ward; for twenty-five years he sang the leading tenor role in the Salt Lake Opera Company; he sang solo parts in the Tabernacle choir on two of its famous tours; he was first tenor in the Eighteenth Ward Quartet, and years before that organization was broken into by the death of Horace G. Whitney, he had sung at over a thousand funerals. He was one of the early members of the Orpheus Club; he belonged to the Philharmonic Society; he was manager of the Musical Arts Society, and at present he is President of the Salt Lake Civic Music Association. Seventy-three years ago, on Broadway, which was then residential between Main and State, in the rear of the adobe . houses which fronted the street, stood a little log cabin, the birthplace of George D. Pyper. It is interesting and significant that he should be born on the site now covered by the stage of the Victory theatre. The highest span of his dramatic and musical career coincided with America's golden age of the theatre. He studied for the law, but he realized the fondest dream of his childhood when he became manager of the Salt Lake Theatre. As a lad, he adored going to the theatre; he thought how fine it would be some day to be attached to its personnel, but he could hardly imagine that he would actually become its manager. It almost seems as if some kind fairy's good-luck wand had touched him on both shoulders, so many of his dreams have come true. During the thirty years of his management of that "Cathedral of the Desert" he became acquainted with most of the notable persons of the stage. He has continued his correspondence with Otis Skinner, dean of the American stage, to this day. Herewith is a facsimile of a letter from Mr. Skinner, written in 1928, in commemoration of the theatre. MANY other famous actors of national and international fame have called George D. Pyper friend, but it is with the dear familiar figures of Utah's own musical and artistic world that we most closely associate him. His name is inseparable from those of Evan Stephens, George Careless, John J. McClellan, Edward P. Kimball, Willard Weihe, Arthur Shepherd, Squire Coop, Hugh Dougall, B. Cecil Gates, Emma Lucy Gates, and the members of his quartet, which was composed of Horace G. Whitney, John D. Spencer and usually Horace Ensign or William G. Patrick, besides himself. Many of these people have passed on to another existence, but their influence will have a lasting impression on this community. Filled with the enthusiasm for music and drama that was so evident in their pioneer atmosphere and background, this group of musicians formed the nucleus for a distinctive phase in Utah's musical development. Among them were some fine composers, conductors, and directors. Because of his splendid capacity as a manager and promoter of artistic entertainment, George D. Pyper has worked hand in hand with all of them. His closest friendships have been formed among this group and with his Sunday School Associates. Long before George Pyper ever sang in a quartet or took a leading role in an opera, he and his brother, Robert, sang in concerts and ward entertainments. And before that, they sang as they roamed the fields and followed Parley's stream, named after Parley P. Pratt, who was the first to explore the canyon, from their new home in Sugarhouse to their father's flour mill down in the valley where the mill was turned by the stream. George was baptized in the waters of this same creek. As a lad he herded cows in the open fields of what is now Yale Ward. The first money he earned was five cents for swishing an old bossie along with his father's herd. To young George, that nickel —as scarce in those days as tallow candles are in these — seemed as large as the harvest moon. One sunny day, he and his companions took a May-walk out near the mountains. The apple trees were in leaf and the lucerne and wheat were high. Suddenly the sun was darkened by a cloud of grasshoppers, a swirling mass of living, pulsating insect life —another of those dreadful visitations. When the boys returned there was not a green leaf in sight. George did not sing then; the summer's crop was ruined. When George was ten the family moved back to the city where they lived on Fourth East in the Twelfth Ward. For two summers he helped his father raise silk worms in the cocoonery, situated close to the Eagle Gate, for a factory in the southern part of the city. He fed the worms young limbs from the mulberry trees which came from Brigham Young's mulberry grove on the Church farm in Forest Dale. The limbs were placed on small hurdles which stood on tables, and the worms were allowed to feed on them until they were ready to spin. Later on a new silk factory was built in the mouth of City Creek Canyon just where a bed of canna lilies now blooms in the center of the little park at the foot of Third Avenue, and George then helped to plant two hundred mulberry trees close to the new factory. Two or three of President Young's daughters came over to the cocoonery three times a day to help feed the worms. Many an exciting conversation took place between them and the boy from Sugarhouse concerning the plays they had seen in the theatre. The Deseret Stock Company, assisted by some of America's leading figures of the stage, was then at its very best. Almost every night in the year, the old theatre was lighted with its myriad of oil lamps while "Cherry and Fair Star," "The Nymph of the Lurleyberg," "East Lynne," "Rip Van Winkle” "Oliver Twist," "Leah, the Forsaken," or some other play full of heart-throbs, was presented. And though the girls and George saw the plays from different parts of the house, the same enthusiasm thrilled them all. The President's daughters were accompanied by their father when they attended, and occupied either his box or seats close to the front in the parquet, while George stowed away in the top gallery, wondering if he ever should sit down in front. One of his favorite pastimes was to rummage among the discarded properties of the old Social Hall Theatre which were stored in Brigham Young's "Lamb Barn," but most of all he loved to find his way to the third circle of the playhouse and see a real drama in action. He went to school for a while in President Young's private school, just inside the rock wall; at the age of twelve he went to work as a cash boy in the Z. C. M.I. His father became judge of the Police court, and fate or circumstance stepped in to turn the boy from his dream for awhile. George, who was then fourteen, was appointed clerk. He spent fifteen years in the court, the last five as judge. What schooling he received he gathered on the run. In addition to his early education in the Sugarhouse and the Twelfth Ward schools, he studied law for two years under Judge Sutherland and Judge Rawlins, and attended the University for a while under Dr. Park. Here he met his life companion, Emmaretta Whitney Pyper. In a class one day, in order to compliment a girl on whom he was smitten, on a recitation she had spoken, he relayed her a note to the effect that she had done splendid. The note came back with ly added to the adverb in parenthesis. The addition was made by his future wife, through whose hands the note had passed. However, she did not realize that she had started her life's work with that correction. DURING his five years as judge, Mr. Pyper ruled in the courtroom by day and held the boards at the Salt Lake Theatre by night, singing the leading tenor roles in the home operas. Though he gave some men a sentence to jail in the morning he gave others a bit of heaven at night with his lovely tenor. His first tenor role was in "Patience," sung at the age of twenty-five. Mr. Pyper, who had taken penmanship under Heber J. Grant, was also an expert penman. Before the click of a typewriter was ever heard in Utah, he engrossed the minutes and the laws passed by the City Council in the '80's. After fifteen years spent in the courtroom as clerk, alderman and finally as judge, Mr. Pyper's political light was snuffed out when his party went down with the swing that turned the city over to the Liberals, and he was dedicated to a larger service. His life became more and more picturesque as time went on. Like the concentric rings of a circle, made by tossing a pebble into a pool of water, small events led to ever widening circles of activity for him. He became associate editor of the Contributor, forerunner of the Era, Assistant Secretary of the Deseret Agricultural Society, and Secretary of the State Fair Organization. Consequently, he was sent to the World's Fair at Chicago in 1893, where he spent six months in charge of Utah's agricultural department. His warm hospitable greeting welcomed all Utahns who attended the fair. And imagine Utah's pride in him and her own Tabernacle Choir when it won second prize in a world-wide choral contest at this fair, with Professor Evan Stephens conducting and Joseph J. Daynes at the organ. Mr. Pyper came back from Chicago to Salt Lake, and returned with the Choir, singing some of the tenor solos on the road. After the tour was over he went back to the fair to complete his work there. Prior to this time he sang on the Choir's first trip to San Francisco, where they toured as far south as Monterey. The people of the West had always been friendly to Utah, and this was a very enjoyable experience. In 1896, Mr. Pyper, Brigham H. Roberts, and Melvin J. Ballard left for the Eastern States as special missionaries; Edward P. Midgley joined them later. After a year in the mission field, however, Mr. Pyper was appointed to take charge of Utah's exhibit at the Tennessee Centennial, where he spent the next eight months. Upon his return, he became secretary to Heber J. Grant and manager of the latter' s life Insurance company. He came home to a most enthusiastic welcome. The Salt Lake Opera Company was organized just before his return, but what was an opera in Utah without George D. Pyper? The leading role in "The Chimes of Normandy" was sent to him by mail; he memorized it on the train, and was ready to sing upon his return. All in all, he sang the tenor in twenty-five operas. Among them were : "The Queen's Lace Handkerchief," "The Mandarin," "Martha," and "Robin Hood." THIS vibrant, magnetic man! His dynamic enthusiasm and vitality carried him on to one vivid experience after another. In 1897, at the request of Heber J. Grant, president of the Salt Lake Theatre Company, he assumed the managership of the Salt Lake Theatre. Gracefully and deftly he met the life at the theatre with a fund of quiet humor which disarmed the angry and stood proof against all the ups and downs of artistic temperament. And what a priceless legacy from his years in the theatre are his friendships among America's brilliant actors and actresses! When Maude Adams was here on her recent tour, she had singled Mr. Pyper and Daniel S. Spencer out as two of her men friends with whom she desired to visit, a great honor, after her many years absence from the state and from one who could see but very few people while here. E. H. Sothern and Henry Miller were two of his very close personal friends. Emma Lucy Gates says that she commenced her long operatic career singing the soprano role opposite George Pyper in the "Jolly Musketeers." From this modest beginning, and with no intermediate acting experience, she stepped onto the stage of the Royal Opera of Berlin. She says, "In all my subsequent operatic experience I never sang with a finer lover nor a tenor with a more beautiful natural quality of voice than dear Uncle George's. It almost melted one to tears. When dressed up in character, silk tights, wig, and makeup, there never was a handsomer lover." In speaking of the Eighteenth Ward Quartet, Emma Lucy says, "As I look back over the years some of the sweetest and tenderest memories I have are of the group sitting around the camp-fire in Brighton in front of the Whitney- Pyper cottage, I, singing to my own accompaniment on the guitar, and then listening to this memorable quartet, George D., H. G., John D., and Horace Ensign, singing 'Spin, Spin.' It never failed to make me weep. Of all the quartets I have heard since in concert, opera, and radio, none has had the beautiful musical quality nor the power to move me to the depths of my being as this quartet did." In 1909, Mr. Pyper installed the Church exhibit at the Lewis and Clarke Exposition at Seattle. Mr. Reister Wright, who had worked on the Tabernacle organ made a model of a cross section of the Tabernacle, showing both the exterior and interior of the building. It was a perfect replica, demonstrating the choir seats, the organ, its pipes, the pulpits and the benches. Spencer Clawson and Orson F. Whitney were also members of that commission, and while it was Mr. Pyper who installed it, it was largely Spencer Clawson's idea which Mr. Wright executed. So interesting was the model, and of such historic value, it was placed in the Smithsonian Institute as part of its permanent collection, until it has again been displayed in a world's fair, this time at Chicago. Mr, Pyper's request for the privilege of using it having been granted, he conceived a new idea for its setting this time, which was approved by a sub-committee under Bishop David A. Smith, and composed of Mr. Pyper, Mrs, Marcia Howells, Oscar Kirkham, Miss Clarissa Beesley, and Miss May Anderson. So, to Chicago went Mr. Pyper, where he consulted with Ward Fairbanks. Together they worked out the scheme for Utah's lovely display.[1] Mr. Pyper then went to Corvallis, Oregon, where he watched J. Leo Fairbanks paint the picture of the youth who posed for the figure representing Joseph Smith during his first vision, in one of the stained glass illuminations which forms one of the two wings in the background of the exhibit. The other wing, also of stained glass, is composed of a scene called, "In Holy Places." The two pictures are illumined with electric lights from behind, making an extremely beautiful effect. After Mr. Fairbanks completed his portrait of the youth in an imaginary woodland setting, the picture was sent from Oregon to a stained-glass man, whom Avard Fairbanks and Mr. Pyper had already selected in Chicago. Religion is so dear to Mr. Pyper's heart, I can imagine with what love he went through this undertaking with the two Mr. Fairbanks. IN 1911, he was manager for the Choir on a six thousand mile trip to New York when it sang Professor McClellan's prize-winning "Ode to Irrigation" in the Irrigation Congress held in the Winter Garden there. Concerts were also held in most of the large cities between Salt Lake and New York. The prevailing spirit of this tour, as on all of the Choir trips, was one of unalloyed friendship and happiness among the members; a buoyant note of strength and joy characterized the whole organization. It was artistically successful and probably the forerunner of the changed attitude of the people of the United States toward the L, D. S. Church. The occasion for the farewell entertainment in the Salt Lake Theatre, on October 20, 1928, was unforgettably poignant. Unfortunately the structure was irrevocably doomed, but Mr. Pyper's tender affection for the old theatre and its association, and the depth of his profound emotion that evening affected everybody present. The memory of that night will live long in the hearts of those who shared George D. Pyper's last communion with his beloved Playhouse. Even so, there were remarkable achievements yet in store for Mr. Pyper. He says himself, that the biggest thing he ever engaged in was the pageant, "The Message of the Ages," honoring the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of the Church. Mr. John D. Spencer, his life-long friend, says, ''Who but Mr. Pyper could have manipulated and managed anything so many-sided and complex as that pageant, so that finally there were no discords or inharmonies! It came through fire and water." But. Mr. Pyper does not take the credit for all that work himself. He lays much of it to those who helped him, because the pageant could not have been worked out without cooperation. The committee was composed of Bertha A. Kleinman, Charlotte Stewart, Erma Felt Bitner, Anne Nebeker, W. O. Robinson, Elbert H. Eastmond, and Junius F. Wells, with A. Hamer Reiser as secretary. The music committee was made up of Anthony C. Lund, Frank W. Asper, LeRoy Robertson, Lester Hinchcliff , and Tracy Cannon. But Mr. Pyper did get the different elements of the vast production together. Sometimes it takes a long time to bring a thing of beauty to life, but how worth while it is! It is Mr. Pyper's very exactness and precision, and his desire to give everyone his due, that enabled him to work things out to such a successful conclusion. From an intricate mass of ideas and details, he molded the pageant into a singularly beautiful and unified whole. During all the months of its growth and development there was not a clashing note among its hundreds of participants that he did not mitigate with his genial kindness and tact. This inspired production was a perfect tribute to the management and character of the man who presided over it, and to his rare capacity and understanding! At present Mr. Pyper is associate editor of The Instructor, and he is also entrusted with the organization of the weekly radio programs which broadcast a dramatization of the Church hymns. Although he does not write the plays, he manages and shapes the ideas. It is not surprising that they are very interestingly produced by one who has had the deepest respect for all phases of his religion and by one in whose home music has helped to form the ideal companionships that have existed there. Around his fireside the fulness of life has been demonstrated in a most perfect blending of the artistic, the spiritual, and the social phase of cultural life. Long years ago, Mr. Pyper and his daughter, Retta, and Mr. H. G. Whitney and his sister, Emma, used to sing together at musical evenings in the Pyper home. Among other numbers, they charmed their friends with quaint rounds and ballads from the early English. Mr. Pyper's artistic life was bound up in the constancy of his friends. His friendship for Evan Stephens, "Bud" Whitney, as H. G. was called, and John D. Spencer was so intimate and sacred that one hardly dares speak of it except with reverence. These four men were all intensely fond of the beauties of nature. For a long succession of summers they sojourned together at Brighton, where they gloried in the glistening light of those tall jagged mountains and the soft shadow of the deep woods. The sounds of bird, leaf, and stream were delicious accents to their ears; the gorgeous panorama of colorful flowers and green meadows was a picture of loveliness to their eyes. ONE day, long ago, the four of them climbed almost to the crest of the mountains, east of Brighton, where they came to rest on a spot which they call the "Crow's Nest," or "Stephens' Roost" of late years. Mr. Pyper tells the following story about their experience in the "Crow's Nest" in an article which he wrote about Evan Stephens for The Juvenile Instructor for October, 1923. He says, "This (the nest) was nothing more or less than a native pine tree flattened by the heavy snows which laid on the boughs for eight months in that locality, forming a natural platform on a ledge far up on the side of the Brighton hills. Here, cross legged, like the tailor of old. Professor Stephens would sit and in imagination lead a mammoth choir made up of the forest crowding the basin below. Here on the right, a grove of fresh young pines represented his sopranos. A little below In the colorful rays of the setting sun, were his contraltos. To the north, there on a raised hill, stood his tenors, and to the extreme right, under the full shadow of the hills, waited his bassos. Interspersed among the pines the quaking asps sparkled and fluttered and these furnished the brilliant accompaniment for his novel imaginary choir. As the sun slowly sank and the evening breezes played among the soughing pines there seemed almost miraculously to come forth like the legendary 'Music of the Spheres,' the magnificent harmonies of nature's singers." Each succeeding summer these four men visited this enchanting amphitheater of the gods, until death called Mr. Whitney to the life beyond. Then the three of them went. For the last four years, since the death of Professor Stephens, Mr. Spencer and Mr. Pyper have climbed together to this shrine of their devotion. Here they dedicated themselves to the memory of their friends, and to the music of nature's choir they love so well. They expect to make their annual pilgrimage to this spot so long as they both shall live. Music and the drama—the wellsprings from which George D. Pyper has derived his very breath of life, and from which has emanated the motivating spirit of his long life of service to his State! Mr. Pyper is best known because of his love for music, his lyric tenor voice, his unceasing devotion to the arts, his literary works and his abundant willingness to serve. He is one of Utah's foremost sons in the development of her cultural life. Through the warp and woof of Utah's artistic expression the course of his life gleams like a golden strand. [1] See December, 1933, Era. |
INTERIOR OLD SALT LAKE THEATRE.
BUT ONE OF MANY LETTERS FROM PROMINENT MEN AND WOMEN OF THE STAGE.
GEORGE D. PYPER
GEORGE D. PYPER AS ROBIN HOOD WITH MRS. HAZEL
TAYLOR PEERY. MR. PYPER AND EMMA LUCY GATES IN THE OFFICE OF THE OLD THEATRE.
CLAIRE W. NOALL
THE author of this sketch of a member of the General Superintendency of the Sunday School of the Latter-day Saint Church, lives in Salt Lake City, where she is rearing a family and serving her Church. MR. PYPER, PRESIDENT GRANT AND PRESIDENT GEORGE S. ROMNEY AT THE CENTURY OF
PROGRESS EXHIBITION. Photo by H. R. M.
WALL LAKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA |
Noall, Claire W. "General Superintendent George Dollinger Pyper." Instructor. March 1937. pg. 93-94.
GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT GEORGE DOLLINGER PYPER
By Albert Hamer Reiser
An oil painting of General Superintendent George D. Pyper, a reproduction of which appears, by order of the General Board, as the cover picture of this issue, was unveiled at the regular weekly meeting of the General Board held February 2nd, 1937.
The portrait is the work of Lee Greene Richards, well known Utah artist. The completion of this painting brings the Church's collection of portraits of General Superintendents of the Sunday Schools up to date.
The original is executed in rich tones, which infuse the portrait with a living warmth. It expresses the personality of George D. Pyper to a delightfully adequate degree. In the beholder a feeling is born which takes form in the word "friend". The longer one studies the portrait the greater this feeling grows, for to it is added a sense of kindliness and gentleness, which are a large part of his friendliness. To the great host who enjoy his love and friendship, the portrait will speak also of his constancy, steadfast as the stars; of his wit, clear and clean as pure crystal; of his geniality and generosity; of his cultivated tastes and wide interests.
To Sunday School workers of three generations, the portrait will represent a personality of unique character and career. To those of the generations to follow ours, if they will read the story of his life, it will reveal the noble soul of a good and great man, who loved people and whose whole life was given to making them happy.
In the face of this portrait glows health of body and mind, the strength of a vigorous spirit, and the kindliness of a warm and generous heart. In imagination one can readily place this genial character amid scenes of culture and refinement and see him in action promoting musical, dramatic, and other artistic enterprises for the people's delight.
The portrait will remind the well-informed of a career that is highly significant and distinctive. The associate and trusted friend of men and women who have shared in building up the intermountain West, George D. Pyper's career is remarkable for its versatility and extent. He has served Utah and the Church on many occasions by planning and developing world's fair exhibits for the enlightenment of the millions. He has been called to the responsibility of managing several concert tours of the famous Salt Lake Tabernacle choir. For thirty years he served as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, and won the confidence, respect and admiration of theatrical agents, travelling companies of actors, the theatre-going public, the owners of the Theatre and the great fraternity of artists who live to delight others. In this realm of his experience, his native wit, artistic ability and his capacity for discharging responsibility efficiently were given generous opportunity for development.
Here, too, his large human interests and sympathies were nourished. One must understand this aspect of his career to appreciate George D. Pyper.
In the realm of Church work his experience has been equally varied and unique. His forty years service on the General Board were preceded by more than twenty years experience in ward organizations. He was called to the General Board in November, 1897, when George Q. Cannon, George Goddard and Karl G. Maeser constituted the General Superintendency.
Schooled by these great Sunday School pioneers, George D. Pyper continued to learn under each of the General Superintendents from the first. In him is crystalized the accumulated experience of eighty-five years of Sunday School work. By him we are bound firmly to the earliest Sunday School traditions of the Latter-day Saints. He has lived and learned and labored with our leaders from the beginning.
This fact sets his career apart as one of unique and distinctive character. Thus prepared for his present office of General Superintendent, he brings to the cause a dominant love of righteousness, firm faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, a fervent testimony, an ardent loyalty to the leaders of the Church, a steadfast devotion to his fellowmen, and a vigorous enthusiasm for the youth of the world; this latter, the natural expression of his own unquenchable youthfulness.
The clear blue eyes of the portrait win the beholder, as the kindly noble features of the face, heightened by a halo of snow-white hair, radiate the warmth of this genuine, friendly personality.
Long may our Father preserve him and his sanctifying influence in our hearts!
GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT GEORGE DOLLINGER PYPER
By Albert Hamer Reiser
An oil painting of General Superintendent George D. Pyper, a reproduction of which appears, by order of the General Board, as the cover picture of this issue, was unveiled at the regular weekly meeting of the General Board held February 2nd, 1937.
The portrait is the work of Lee Greene Richards, well known Utah artist. The completion of this painting brings the Church's collection of portraits of General Superintendents of the Sunday Schools up to date.
The original is executed in rich tones, which infuse the portrait with a living warmth. It expresses the personality of George D. Pyper to a delightfully adequate degree. In the beholder a feeling is born which takes form in the word "friend". The longer one studies the portrait the greater this feeling grows, for to it is added a sense of kindliness and gentleness, which are a large part of his friendliness. To the great host who enjoy his love and friendship, the portrait will speak also of his constancy, steadfast as the stars; of his wit, clear and clean as pure crystal; of his geniality and generosity; of his cultivated tastes and wide interests.
To Sunday School workers of three generations, the portrait will represent a personality of unique character and career. To those of the generations to follow ours, if they will read the story of his life, it will reveal the noble soul of a good and great man, who loved people and whose whole life was given to making them happy.
In the face of this portrait glows health of body and mind, the strength of a vigorous spirit, and the kindliness of a warm and generous heart. In imagination one can readily place this genial character amid scenes of culture and refinement and see him in action promoting musical, dramatic, and other artistic enterprises for the people's delight.
The portrait will remind the well-informed of a career that is highly significant and distinctive. The associate and trusted friend of men and women who have shared in building up the intermountain West, George D. Pyper's career is remarkable for its versatility and extent. He has served Utah and the Church on many occasions by planning and developing world's fair exhibits for the enlightenment of the millions. He has been called to the responsibility of managing several concert tours of the famous Salt Lake Tabernacle choir. For thirty years he served as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, and won the confidence, respect and admiration of theatrical agents, travelling companies of actors, the theatre-going public, the owners of the Theatre and the great fraternity of artists who live to delight others. In this realm of his experience, his native wit, artistic ability and his capacity for discharging responsibility efficiently were given generous opportunity for development.
Here, too, his large human interests and sympathies were nourished. One must understand this aspect of his career to appreciate George D. Pyper.
In the realm of Church work his experience has been equally varied and unique. His forty years service on the General Board were preceded by more than twenty years experience in ward organizations. He was called to the General Board in November, 1897, when George Q. Cannon, George Goddard and Karl G. Maeser constituted the General Superintendency.
Schooled by these great Sunday School pioneers, George D. Pyper continued to learn under each of the General Superintendents from the first. In him is crystalized the accumulated experience of eighty-five years of Sunday School work. By him we are bound firmly to the earliest Sunday School traditions of the Latter-day Saints. He has lived and learned and labored with our leaders from the beginning.
This fact sets his career apart as one of unique and distinctive character. Thus prepared for his present office of General Superintendent, he brings to the cause a dominant love of righteousness, firm faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, a fervent testimony, an ardent loyalty to the leaders of the Church, a steadfast devotion to his fellowmen, and a vigorous enthusiasm for the youth of the world; this latter, the natural expression of his own unquenchable youthfulness.
The clear blue eyes of the portrait win the beholder, as the kindly noble features of the face, heightened by a halo of snow-white hair, radiate the warmth of this genuine, friendly personality.
Long may our Father preserve him and his sanctifying influence in our hearts!
Pyper, George D. "Faith Promoting Sketches - "Did Not Our Hearts Burn Within Us?"." Instructor. September 1940. pg. 390-391.
FAITH PROMOTING SKETCHES
IX.
"Did Not Our Hearts Burn Within Us?"
By George D. Pyper
Inasmuch as I have asked a number of people to send to The Instructor some of their experiences, which might be faith-promoting, and since a friend who knew something of my own experiences, when asked to contribute, said, "why don't you write your own?" I wondered if there was anything in my life worth repeating. It is for you to judge.
I was born in the Church, had always attended its meetings, been connected with the Sunday School, the Mutual Improvement As- sociation since my youth and for the moment could think of nothing that would be faith promoting to the readers of The Instructor.
My mother, as a young girl in Nauvoo, knew the Prophet and had heard his testimony; that she solemnly told to her children, and I had gone along strongly believing but without any special circumstance that clinched it as a living testimony. But there came a time when belief was changed into knowledge. That time occurred 54 years ago, when I was called to go on a mission to the United States with Brigham H. Roberts, Melvin J. Ballard and Edward P. Midgley.
In the forepart of this mission, Elder Roberts did the preaching and the rest of us did the singing, playing the organ, and praying. We were to go to the big cities, hire good halls and there deliver our message. Brother Ballard remained in St. Louis while Brothers Roberts, Midgley and I went farther east. While in Pittsburgh, we visited the little town of New England, where Sidney Rigdon. after his disaffection, attempted to organize a church. A meeting was held in the school house, which was crowded beyond its capacity. Men sat upon the window sills, and every opening was filled with peering faces. The whole atmosphere was tense.
It was here that Brother Roberts delivered one of the most powerful sermons that I have ever heard. In closing his remarkable message, he said, "In the mouths of two or more witnesses shall all truths be established, and I now call upon my companions to bear testimony to the truth of what I have said". It was a thunder shock to me, because while I had always gone along with the Church and my belief in it was strong, yet as far as f could remember, I had hot Stood on my feet before a great congregation and solemnly testified that I knew that it was true. As I trembled and momentarily pondered the situation, I had what to me was a remarkable religious experience. A voice seemed to say to me, "You have known it all your life, known it as well as if a miracle had been performed in your behalf. Now is the time to speak". And a sensation, indescribable, came over me. My bosom burned within me and then I knew, and so testified to the truth. In fulfillment of a prophetic blessing bestowed upon me by the Church Patriarch, I have borne that testimony in many nations of the earth. This testimony has remained with me, and it is my humble prayer that I may never offend the Spirit and that I may retain this glorious knowledge to the end.
FAITH PROMOTING SKETCHES
IX.
"Did Not Our Hearts Burn Within Us?"
By George D. Pyper
Inasmuch as I have asked a number of people to send to The Instructor some of their experiences, which might be faith-promoting, and since a friend who knew something of my own experiences, when asked to contribute, said, "why don't you write your own?" I wondered if there was anything in my life worth repeating. It is for you to judge.
I was born in the Church, had always attended its meetings, been connected with the Sunday School, the Mutual Improvement As- sociation since my youth and for the moment could think of nothing that would be faith promoting to the readers of The Instructor.
My mother, as a young girl in Nauvoo, knew the Prophet and had heard his testimony; that she solemnly told to her children, and I had gone along strongly believing but without any special circumstance that clinched it as a living testimony. But there came a time when belief was changed into knowledge. That time occurred 54 years ago, when I was called to go on a mission to the United States with Brigham H. Roberts, Melvin J. Ballard and Edward P. Midgley.
In the forepart of this mission, Elder Roberts did the preaching and the rest of us did the singing, playing the organ, and praying. We were to go to the big cities, hire good halls and there deliver our message. Brother Ballard remained in St. Louis while Brothers Roberts, Midgley and I went farther east. While in Pittsburgh, we visited the little town of New England, where Sidney Rigdon. after his disaffection, attempted to organize a church. A meeting was held in the school house, which was crowded beyond its capacity. Men sat upon the window sills, and every opening was filled with peering faces. The whole atmosphere was tense.
It was here that Brother Roberts delivered one of the most powerful sermons that I have ever heard. In closing his remarkable message, he said, "In the mouths of two or more witnesses shall all truths be established, and I now call upon my companions to bear testimony to the truth of what I have said". It was a thunder shock to me, because while I had always gone along with the Church and my belief in it was strong, yet as far as f could remember, I had hot Stood on my feet before a great congregation and solemnly testified that I knew that it was true. As I trembled and momentarily pondered the situation, I had what to me was a remarkable religious experience. A voice seemed to say to me, "You have known it all your life, known it as well as if a miracle had been performed in your behalf. Now is the time to speak". And a sensation, indescribable, came over me. My bosom burned within me and then I knew, and so testified to the truth. In fulfillment of a prophetic blessing bestowed upon me by the Church Patriarch, I have borne that testimony in many nations of the earth. This testimony has remained with me, and it is my humble prayer that I may never offend the Spirit and that I may retain this glorious knowledge to the end.
"Elder George D. Pyper." Relief Society Magazine. December 1940. pg. 839.
Elder George D. Pyper
NOVEMBER 21, a large circle of admiring friends and relatives paid tribute to Elder George D. Pyper, General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, at a public reception held at the Lion House Social Center in honor of his eightieth birthday. Endowed with unusual spiritual and mental vigor, gifted above the average, Elder Pyper's life has been characterized by outstanding service to his Church and community. The large number of Church and civic leaders, friends and relatives attending the reception gave evidence of the high regard and general esteem felt for the venerable Churchman. Members of the Relief Society General Board joined the group in extending birthday felicitations.
Elder Pyper is well known to Relief Society women, having endeared himself to them through the pages of his book, The Romance of An Old Playhouse, which was one of the books studied in the 1937-38 Literature course. At that time, Elder Pyper graciously responded to many invitations to visit stakes and wards, interpreting for them the Latter-day Saint culture as expressed in a love of drama and in the erection of a "Cathedral in the Desert" (the Salt Lake Theatre). His long and intimate association with the theatre is unique.
The Relief Society General Board expresses its appreciation to Elder Pyper for his contributions to our organization and extends best wishes for a continuance of health and vitality to perform the many tasks for which he is so well qualified.
Elder George D. Pyper
NOVEMBER 21, a large circle of admiring friends and relatives paid tribute to Elder George D. Pyper, General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, at a public reception held at the Lion House Social Center in honor of his eightieth birthday. Endowed with unusual spiritual and mental vigor, gifted above the average, Elder Pyper's life has been characterized by outstanding service to his Church and community. The large number of Church and civic leaders, friends and relatives attending the reception gave evidence of the high regard and general esteem felt for the venerable Churchman. Members of the Relief Society General Board joined the group in extending birthday felicitations.
Elder Pyper is well known to Relief Society women, having endeared himself to them through the pages of his book, The Romance of An Old Playhouse, which was one of the books studied in the 1937-38 Literature course. At that time, Elder Pyper graciously responded to many invitations to visit stakes and wards, interpreting for them the Latter-day Saint culture as expressed in a love of drama and in the erection of a "Cathedral in the Desert" (the Salt Lake Theatre). His long and intimate association with the theatre is unique.
The Relief Society General Board expresses its appreciation to Elder Pyper for his contributions to our organization and extends best wishes for a continuance of health and vitality to perform the many tasks for which he is so well qualified.
Pyper, George W. "George Dollinger Pyper." Instructor. February 1943. pg. 63-66.
GEORGE DOLLINGER PYPER[1] By George W. Pyper George D. Pyper, General Superintendent of the L.D.S. Deseret Sunday School Union and a leading exponent of the Church sponsored program of building richer spiritual lives through cultivation of the best in drama, music and other arts, died Saturday at 4:05 a.m., January 17, 1943. Mr. Pyper had been ill four weeks. He suffered a heart attack in his office on December 17. He was 82 years old. George D. Pyper was born in Salt Lake City on November 21, 1860, in a little cabin nestling at the rear of some adobe houses that fronted on what is now Broadway, between Main and State streets Significantly, perhaps, in view of the histrionic career that was to be his, the site is now covered by the stage of the Victory Theatre. He was a son of Alexander C. and Christiana Dollinger Pyper. As later years proved, into his soul was born an undying love for music, drama, fine arts and literature. To these, and to his religious beliefs, his family and host of friends, he ardently devoted a life teeming with fascinating episodes, a life rich and warm in kindliness, love, spirituality and generosity. Boyhood Home As a tiny lad he herded cows in the open fields of what is now Yale Ward. The first money he earned was 5 cents for swishing an old bossie along with his father's herd. The family had moved to Sugarhouse. Even at that early age the music in his heart expressed itself in the songs he would sing with his brother, Robert, as they roamed the fields or followed Parley's Canyon stream, in which he was baptized, to their father's flour mill nearby in the valley. They later sang those songs and others in concerts and ward entertainments. Return to City Mr. Pyper's parents moved back to the city when he was 10. The family lived on Fourth East Street in the Twelfth Ward. For two summers he helped his father raise silkworms in a cocoonery then located close to the Eagle Gate, for which food came in the form of young tree limbs from Brigham Young's mulberry grove on the L.D.S. Church farm in Forest Dale. Later a silk factory was built in the mouth of City Creek Canyon at the foot of Third Avenue. Young George helped to plant 200 mulberry trees around it. At that time his father was manager for the business interests of the great pioneer and Church leader. Some of Brigham Young's daughters came to the cocoonery three times a day to help with the feedings, and many exciting conversations took place between these young women and the boy from Sugarhouse concerning the plays they had seen in the Salt Lake Theatre, which had been built when Brigham Young said: "The people must have amusement as well as religion." It was of import to Mr. Pyper because from early childhood the stage had fascinated him, and the Deseret Stock Company, assisted by some of America's leading talent, was then at its zenith. Lighted With Oil Lamps Almost every night in the year the theatre was lighted with its myriad of oil lamps while such "thrillers" as "East Lynn," "Oliver Twist," "Cherry and Fair Star," "Rip Van Winkle,” and "Leah, the Forsaken," were presented. Brigham Young's daughters witnessed the plays from the president's box or front parquet seats; young George from the top gallery, wondering if he should ever get "a seat down in front." But their enthusiasm was the same. Mr. Pyper's education was gathered on the run. He attended the Sugarhouse and Twelfth Ward schools and, for a time. Brigham Young's private school, just inside the property's rock wall of those days. At the age of 12 he went to work as a cash boy in Z.C.M.I. When he was 14 his father became judge of the Salt Lake police court and the son was appointed clerk. He was in the court service 15 years. Mr. Pyper studied law two years under Judge Jabez Sutherland and Judge Joseph L. Rawlins, two of the best legal minds in the Utah of the period, and for a time attended the University of Deseret under Dr. John R. Park. It was there he met Emmaretta Smith Whitney, daughter of Horace K. and Mary Cravath Whitney, whom he married in September, 1883. His wife, herself an ardent devottee of music and the arts, added her genius and influence to his efforts, helping to inspire the career and achievements that followed. That inspiration continued with him after her death on August 24, 1929. Noteworthy Classmate Also among Mr. Pypers's classmates was John D. Spencer, a noteworthy figure in Utah's musical, dramatic and cultural life, who became closely associated with him in local operatic and other ventures and was his intimate friend through the years. Only recently the two had been entertaining hundreds with their anecdotes, songs and amusing skits of the stage of earlier days. When Judge Alexander C. Pyper died in 1884, his son, George, still court clerk, stepped into his place and presided for five years. During that period Mr. Pyper ruled in the courtroom by day and held the boards at the Salt Lake Theatre by night with his lyric tenor. His first operatic role was in "Patience," sung at the age of 25. Thereafter, for 25 years, he sang the leading tenor roles in the numerous presentations of the Salt Lake Opera Company. Previously he had conducted the Twelfth Ward choir for eight years. Mr. Pyper, who had studied penmanship under Heber J. Grant, was also an expert penman. Before the click of a typewriter was ever heard in Utah he engrossed the minutes and the laws passed by the city council in the '80s. But the strong urge to endeavors closer to his heart was inescapable and Mr. Pyper left the field of politics when his party went down with the political swing that turned the city over to the liberals. Structure Doomed The structure, which stood on the northwest corner of First South and State Street, was unfortunately doomed, but Mr. Pyper's tender affection for the old theatre and its associations made the farewell entertainment on October 29, 1928, a memorable event. In the same year his tribute to it was expressed in his widely read book narrating its history, Romance of An Old Playhouse, It was a noteworthy contribution to the literary realm and to the archives of Utah. A more recent book by Mr. Pyper, Stories of Latter-day Saint Hymns, was written in 1939. It culminated his earlier organization of weekly radio programs dramatizing the Church hymns, which were widely broadcast. He also was the author of a great many articles published in Church periodicals. President Heber J. Grant was his staunch personal friend, as were J. Reuben Clark, Jr., and David O. McKay of the First Presidency and all Church officers. But the wide circle was no means confined to Church associates. In civic life outside religious realms those who knew him as friend were legion. Enthusiastic Traveler Mr. Pyper was an enthusiastic traveler and keen observer. In 1931 he sailed the Pacific to the L.D.S. Hawaiian Mission and while there soared over the isles in a plane. An article, "Seeing Hawaii from the Sky," appeared the same year in the Improvement Era as one of his numerous contributions to literature. In 1909, he installed the Church exhibit at the Lewis and Clark Exposition in Seattle. It was a model by Reister Wright of a cross-section of the Tabernacle and proved of such historic interest that it was placed in the Smithsonian Institution. Later Mr. Pyper conceived a new idea for its setting, which he worked out with a committee and Avard and J. Leo Fairbanks, the artists. It was installed at the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago attracting wide recognition and comment. Becomes Associate Editor He became associate editor of the Contributor, an L.D.S. Church publication and forerunner of the Improvement Era; assistant secretary of the Deseret Agricultural Society and secretary of the state fair organization. He was sent to the World's Fair at Chicago in 1893, in charge of Utah's agricultural exhibit, and was with the Tabernacle Choir there when it won second prize in a world-wide choral contest and Joseph J. Daynes at the organ. Returning to Salt Lake with the Choir, Mr. Pyper sang some of the tenor roles on the road, then went back to the Fair to complete his work. Prior to that time, he sang with the Choir on its first trip to San Francisco. In 1896 he was called by the L. D. S. Church as a special missionary to the Eastern States. With him went Brigham H. Roberts and Melvin J. Ballard, and, later, Edward P. Midgley. After a year in the missionary field, Mr. Pyper was appointed in charge of Utah's exhibit at the Tennessee Centennial. Eight months later he returned to Salt Lake and became secretary to Heber J. Grant and manager of the latter's life insurance company. Just before that return, the Salt Lake Opera Company was organized. The leading tenor role in "Chimes of Normandy" was sent in text to Mr. Pyper by mail. He memorized it on the train and was ready to sing it upon his arrival. All in all, he sang the tenor roles in 25 operas, including such as "The Queen's Lace Handkerchief," "The Mandarin," "Martha," "The Jolly Musketeers," "A Trip to Africa," "The Girl and the Governor," "The Mikado," "Pinafore," and "Robin Hood." In 1897, at the request of Heber J. Grant, then president of the Salt Lake Theatre Company, Mr. Pyper took over the management of the playhouse. His dream had come true. For 30 years he held that post, meeting theatre |l life with a fund fit of quiet humor and deft diplomacy that stood proof against the vagaries, the caprices, the whims of artistic temperament. He won the lasting admiration and friendship of many musical and dramatic performers of national and international repute, such as Otis Skinner, Maude Adams, E. H. Sothern, Henry Miller, Emma Lucy Gates. There were many others, including renowned producers such as Henry W. Savage Charles and Daniel Frohman, Klaw & Erlanger, but these, in particular, counted themselves his close personal friends. From the moment he took over the managerial reins until the old theatre's proud walls fell before the march of time, his efforts brought to the community the best the artistic world had to offer in entertainment. The playhouse was an historic monument to music, drama and art in Utah and sent forth geniuses and influences affecting their development throughout America. As Mr. Pyper said: "Our hearts will ever hold it in dear remembrance as one of the worthwhile monuments of bygone days; one that has helped to make Salt Lake what she should always be—the City Different. And let us not forget that this romantic and hallowed old playhouse—this 'cathedral in the desert'—(so named by Henry Miller) has been a sacred shrine symbolizing the sentiments and ideals of our revered pioneers and within whose walls were developed the community's very heart and soul." In 1911, Mr. Pyper was manager of the Tabernacle Choir on a 6000-mile trip to New York City, where they sang John J. McClellan's prize-winning "Ode to Irrigation" at the irrigation congress in Winter Garden. Concerts also were offered in most of the large cities between Salt Lake and New York. It was perhaps the Choir's most successful tour and as an eloquent missionary appeal wielded a powerful influence in promoting a friendlier feeling toward the L.D.S. Church and Utah. Mr. Pyper was one of the charter members of the Orpheus Club. He was a member of the Philharmonic Society. He was at different times manager and president of the Musical Arts Society, which he helped to found, and when that organization became the Salt Lake Civic Music Association, he served it as president. Rotary Club Member He also was a member of the Rotary Club and was selected as its representative to the international convention of that body in Nice, France, in 1937. After the convention he made an extensive tour of Europe with his granddaughter. Miss Dorothy Shepherd, who had been studying art in Italy. One of Mr. Pyper's outstanding achievements, if not his greatest, was his engineering of "The Message of the Ages," a vast, magnificent pageant commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the L.D.S. Church. From an intricate mass of ideas and details, he molded and coordinated the pageant into a singularly beautiful and unified whole. This inspired production was a perfect tribute to the management and character of the man who presided over it. Yet it was characteristic of him, when complimented on the achievement, that he should insist credit go to the committee with whom he served, protesting it would have been an impossible task without its untiring aid. Close to His Heart At the time of his passing, Mr. Pyper was associate editor of the Instructor, a post he had held for many years; vice president of the Deseret Book Company, and general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union. He had been a member of the general superintendency for 23 years and of the General Board for 43 years. [1] This article appeared in the Salt Lake Tribune, the issue for Sunday, January 17, 1943. The author is the son of our late beloved Superintendent. It is inserted in this issue of The Instructor because of its beauty and intimacy. |
Last Picture of George D. Pyper
First Picture of George D. Pyper, taken at 8 years
|
Grant, Heber J. "Tributes to George D. Pyper." Instructor. February 1943. pg. 67-69.
TRIBUTE TO SUPERINTENDENT GEORGE D. PYPER
By President Heber J. Grant
My association with Brother Pyper from the time we were young men until his death could not possibly have been more intimate. I have often remarked that he was as sweet spirited as a woman. I never knew him to be angry or to speak an unkind word. He was truly what might be called "the salt of the earth." Not only intelligent and forceful but one of the kindest and most sympathetic men I have ever known. Notwithstanding his advanced age, I had hoped and prayed for a continuation of his life.
CLOSING SCENES OF A NOBLE CAREER
President David O. McKay
Thursday morning, December 17, 1942, Elder George D. Pyper went to his office as was his usual custom. The large front door of the Brigham Young Memorial Building had already closed behind him. Just as he began to ascend the nineteen steps leading to the upper hallway, he was seized with a sudden illness. By the aid of his indomitable will he mustered sufficient strength to reach the door of his private office. Entering, he staggered toward a couch, but fell unconscious by the side of his desk.
The General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, faithful servant and follower of his Savior, had fallen at his post of duty!
His empty chair, unopened letters, sharpened pencils on his desk, and manuscripts awaiting correction, only intensified the dreadful fear that gripped loving hearts that a great man, loyal friend had reached the end of life's journey.
General Secretary Wendell Ashton summoned immediate aid, and gentle hands lifted Superintendent Pyper's prostrate body upon the couch. Medical skill with difficulty restored action to his faint pulse, and reawakened consciousness. Several of his close associates, kneeling by his side, administered to him. Brother Pyper seemed himself again; but wisdom prompted that he be given further tender and solicitous care.
As attendants placed him upon the stretcher to convey him to the ambulance, he remarked: "I will place my arms across my breast as is customary so I shall be less trouble to you."
Was this premonition or just an expression of his thoughtfulness of others? Perhaps the latter, for as he entered his room in the hospital he jocularly remarked: "Well, St. Peter, just another false alarm."
Not an "alarm" but a final summons, which was answered Saturday, January 16, 1943. All that night anxious loved ones had watched by his bedside. The end came so quiet and peaceful that --
"They thought him dying when he slept.
And sleeping when he died."
Before the morning star arose heralding in the eastern horizon the coming of daylight Superintendent Pyper's
"Quiet eyelids closed—he had
Another morn than ours."
Thus ended the successful earthly career of one who has faithfully served the Sunday School cause for nearly a half century. It was forty-five years last November when he was made a member of the General Sunday School Union Board, when President George Q. Cannon, and Elders George Goddard and Karl G. Maeser constituted the General Superintendency. Of his co-workers on the General Board since that date forty-eight have preceded him to the Great Beyond.
When President Heber J. Grant called me to assume the office of General Superintendent, I chose Elder Stephen L Richards and Elder Pyper as my associates; and what helpful assistants they were! What wise counselors they proved to be! Seventeen years of close companionship in a glorious cause united our hearts in sweet comradeship and eternal friendship. On October 30, 1934, upon the reorganization of the General Superintendency, Elder Pyper was set apart as the General Superintendent.
As I write these lines, and memory brings vividly to mind our many and varied associations, I am impelled to say that my beloved friend and associate had one of the most evenly balanced temperaments of all men I have ever known. From the center to the surface of his nature he was as genuine and pure as gold. He expressed opinions conscientiously unswerved by timidity or favoritism. He was always reserved, unpretentious, genial, modest, dignified; his advice wholesome, his judgment sound. If given an offense he would never retaliate. He was open, loyal, true; of humane and affable demeanor; generous himself, and in his judgment of others. Faithful to his word, as to law; and faithful alike to his friends and to God—these are the attributes which made him the perfect gentleman, a true follower of our Lord and Savior.
Last Saturday morning Death brought Elder George D. Pyper an honorable release as General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, and four hundred thousand officers and members of this great organization now mourn his departure; but let our sorrow be assuaged in contemplation of the fact that our beloved associate has upon his return Home been given a glorious welcome by his friends and former associates in the spirit world. What a happy meeting with his beloved Emmaretta who has been waiting twelve years in anticipation of this reunion! There are also his proud and grateful parents, and other loved ones. Undoubtedly, too, there would be held a special meeting of the former members of the General Sunday School Union Board; for
"All are friends in Heaven, all faithful friends.
And many friendships in the days of Time
Began, are lasting there and growing still."
Goodbye, esteemed associate, truest of friends, until we meet again!
REMARKS
By Elder Stephen L Richards
(From a Talk made at funeral services)
I recall having first met Brother Pyper when he came to visit a Sunday School of which, as a very young man, I acted as secretary. I can remember only these facts: that he sang a song and that he immediately won my admiration and respect. That was nearly fifty years ago and I did not then dream that some day I would have the privilege of long and intimate association with him.
I still admired him from a distance when, in my student days, I climbed the long, steep steps to "nigger heaven," the third balcony, in the old Salt Lake Theatre to hear him sing operatic roles and bring down the house with the thrilling notes of his exquisite tenor voice.
Some years afterward began an association which I count among the richest things of my life. I was called to serve with Brother David O. McKay and Brother George D. Pyper in the General Superintendency of the Deseret Sunday School Union, a relationship which lasted, with some modifications, for more than 25 years. I shall probably never have a better opportunity than I am now afforded to acknowledge my undying gratitude to these two great and good men for their companionship and influence on my life. I can ask for nothing better in the life to come, than a continuance of this priceless association.
Memories of George D. Pyper are as sweet and wholesome as the elements that went into his incomparable character. . . .
I shall always remember Brother Pyper as an artist, not only because he was a singer of wide repute and distinction, a gifted producer of pageants, and a literary man of no mean ability,—but because he had the soul and sensibility of an artist. He was susceptible to lofty emotions and he was -capable of being touched by simplicity. He had an eye for the beauty in all things. He was passionately fond of flowers and an artist in their production. I have seen him transported with the rapture of a sunset, or the moon on a lake or over the tops of the mountains he loved so well. Years ago, before our southern scenery had been exploited as fully as it is now, and when there were relatively few visitors, I had the pleasure of taking him and his dear wife to see these points of interest. I watched him as he beheld the incomparable mountains of Zion near their lofty crested peaks high into the blue of heaven, and as he crept timidly out on a projected point to peer into the awful caverns of the Grand Canyon. I have never seen deeper appreciation of the beauties of nature. Then I brought him to the brink of Bryce, I thought there would be exclamations of wonder and surprise. But when he looked out on her jeweled spires, her cathedrals, her dainty nymphs and graces and beheld that matchless panorama of color and form, there were no words, but only tears and feeling too deep for expression. . . .
"You will not forget me? You will not forget me?" are the words he sings. I think I may reply for all when I say: "Never, George Pyper, so long as there is regard for friendship, for the beautiful, for the good and the true . . . never will we forget you!"
REMARKS
By Elder Milton Bennion
(At the funeral services)
For a third of a century it has been my privilege to be associated with Brother George D. Pyper in the work of the Deseret Sunday School Union Board. He was at the beginning of that period a veteran in the work, General Secretary, thoroughly familiar with the work of Sunday School and thoroughly able to participate effectively in every aspect of the Sunday School work. My impression of him then was that he was a very courteous, kindly and helpful elder brother. That impression has grown with me with the years and with my continued association with him.
A few years later he became a member of the General Superintendency, and with a second organization of this group he became General Superintendent. During these years he had charge- of the Sunday School offices and the publications of the Sunday School Union.
As you know, he was a very remarkable man. His artistic temperament was manifested in more diverse ways than is usual. He excelled in the fields of music, pageantry, dramatics and literature. We have all observed, I suppose, that some people of artistic temperament have little administrative ability. This was not the case with him. He was very capable as an administrative officer. As manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, director of pageants for the Church, manager of Tabernacle Choir tours, and in various capacities in the services of the State and the community, he manifested a great deal of business ability.
We know him, however, primarily as our leader in the work of the Church, with which he was thoroughly familiar, sound in doctrine, and loyal to the Church and to the community. With all his ability and his experience he was extremely modest and always wished to have the opinion of his associates about matters of importance pertaining to the Sunday School work. He would listen always to their suggestions and If they did not make any, he would commonly call for them. Not that he was ready to accept anything that we suggested, but he believed that in a multitude of counsel there is wisdom, and he wanted the benefit of that collective wisdom.
There was no trace in Brother Pyper of the Pharisaical disposition so often rebuked by Jesus. While he attended to all the details of the law and the Gospel, he never allowed these details to overshadow the great fundamental principles—the major items of the law—justice, kindness, and integrity—in these he was very strong. He recognized the priority of the greatest of the commandments, love of God and love of fellowmen; his love of God was expressed in his love and service of his fellows. He was indeed a friend of mankind; his sympathies and helpful actions went out to the poor and the underprivileged as much as to the wealthy and the powerful. Many people knew him as a good Samaritan. People who were in distress, not necessarily connected with the Sunday School organization, often came to his office to seek his counsel and help, to help them out of their mental troubles, and in many cases financial troubles. When anyone who knew him or knew of him wanted a little financial help and was desperate for it, he would come to Brother Pyper's office for assistance. Brother Pyper would rather make a mistake in giving to a person who did not deserve help than to give to somebody who did deserve it and who really needed it.
I am sure I speak for every member of the Sunday School Board when I say that we shall always love and esteem Superintendent Pyper. We join his family in mourning his departure, but also in rejoicing for the magnificent life that he lived and the good that he did. I pray that the memory of his personality, his fine spiritual character, may ever be a source of strength to inspire us to higher and better living. I ask it in the name of Jesus, Amen.
TRIBUTE TO SUPERINTENDENT GEORGE D. PYPER
By President Heber J. Grant
My association with Brother Pyper from the time we were young men until his death could not possibly have been more intimate. I have often remarked that he was as sweet spirited as a woman. I never knew him to be angry or to speak an unkind word. He was truly what might be called "the salt of the earth." Not only intelligent and forceful but one of the kindest and most sympathetic men I have ever known. Notwithstanding his advanced age, I had hoped and prayed for a continuation of his life.
CLOSING SCENES OF A NOBLE CAREER
President David O. McKay
Thursday morning, December 17, 1942, Elder George D. Pyper went to his office as was his usual custom. The large front door of the Brigham Young Memorial Building had already closed behind him. Just as he began to ascend the nineteen steps leading to the upper hallway, he was seized with a sudden illness. By the aid of his indomitable will he mustered sufficient strength to reach the door of his private office. Entering, he staggered toward a couch, but fell unconscious by the side of his desk.
The General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, faithful servant and follower of his Savior, had fallen at his post of duty!
His empty chair, unopened letters, sharpened pencils on his desk, and manuscripts awaiting correction, only intensified the dreadful fear that gripped loving hearts that a great man, loyal friend had reached the end of life's journey.
General Secretary Wendell Ashton summoned immediate aid, and gentle hands lifted Superintendent Pyper's prostrate body upon the couch. Medical skill with difficulty restored action to his faint pulse, and reawakened consciousness. Several of his close associates, kneeling by his side, administered to him. Brother Pyper seemed himself again; but wisdom prompted that he be given further tender and solicitous care.
As attendants placed him upon the stretcher to convey him to the ambulance, he remarked: "I will place my arms across my breast as is customary so I shall be less trouble to you."
Was this premonition or just an expression of his thoughtfulness of others? Perhaps the latter, for as he entered his room in the hospital he jocularly remarked: "Well, St. Peter, just another false alarm."
Not an "alarm" but a final summons, which was answered Saturday, January 16, 1943. All that night anxious loved ones had watched by his bedside. The end came so quiet and peaceful that --
"They thought him dying when he slept.
And sleeping when he died."
Before the morning star arose heralding in the eastern horizon the coming of daylight Superintendent Pyper's
"Quiet eyelids closed—he had
Another morn than ours."
Thus ended the successful earthly career of one who has faithfully served the Sunday School cause for nearly a half century. It was forty-five years last November when he was made a member of the General Sunday School Union Board, when President George Q. Cannon, and Elders George Goddard and Karl G. Maeser constituted the General Superintendency. Of his co-workers on the General Board since that date forty-eight have preceded him to the Great Beyond.
When President Heber J. Grant called me to assume the office of General Superintendent, I chose Elder Stephen L Richards and Elder Pyper as my associates; and what helpful assistants they were! What wise counselors they proved to be! Seventeen years of close companionship in a glorious cause united our hearts in sweet comradeship and eternal friendship. On October 30, 1934, upon the reorganization of the General Superintendency, Elder Pyper was set apart as the General Superintendent.
As I write these lines, and memory brings vividly to mind our many and varied associations, I am impelled to say that my beloved friend and associate had one of the most evenly balanced temperaments of all men I have ever known. From the center to the surface of his nature he was as genuine and pure as gold. He expressed opinions conscientiously unswerved by timidity or favoritism. He was always reserved, unpretentious, genial, modest, dignified; his advice wholesome, his judgment sound. If given an offense he would never retaliate. He was open, loyal, true; of humane and affable demeanor; generous himself, and in his judgment of others. Faithful to his word, as to law; and faithful alike to his friends and to God—these are the attributes which made him the perfect gentleman, a true follower of our Lord and Savior.
Last Saturday morning Death brought Elder George D. Pyper an honorable release as General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, and four hundred thousand officers and members of this great organization now mourn his departure; but let our sorrow be assuaged in contemplation of the fact that our beloved associate has upon his return Home been given a glorious welcome by his friends and former associates in the spirit world. What a happy meeting with his beloved Emmaretta who has been waiting twelve years in anticipation of this reunion! There are also his proud and grateful parents, and other loved ones. Undoubtedly, too, there would be held a special meeting of the former members of the General Sunday School Union Board; for
"All are friends in Heaven, all faithful friends.
And many friendships in the days of Time
Began, are lasting there and growing still."
Goodbye, esteemed associate, truest of friends, until we meet again!
REMARKS
By Elder Stephen L Richards
(From a Talk made at funeral services)
I recall having first met Brother Pyper when he came to visit a Sunday School of which, as a very young man, I acted as secretary. I can remember only these facts: that he sang a song and that he immediately won my admiration and respect. That was nearly fifty years ago and I did not then dream that some day I would have the privilege of long and intimate association with him.
I still admired him from a distance when, in my student days, I climbed the long, steep steps to "nigger heaven," the third balcony, in the old Salt Lake Theatre to hear him sing operatic roles and bring down the house with the thrilling notes of his exquisite tenor voice.
Some years afterward began an association which I count among the richest things of my life. I was called to serve with Brother David O. McKay and Brother George D. Pyper in the General Superintendency of the Deseret Sunday School Union, a relationship which lasted, with some modifications, for more than 25 years. I shall probably never have a better opportunity than I am now afforded to acknowledge my undying gratitude to these two great and good men for their companionship and influence on my life. I can ask for nothing better in the life to come, than a continuance of this priceless association.
Memories of George D. Pyper are as sweet and wholesome as the elements that went into his incomparable character. . . .
I shall always remember Brother Pyper as an artist, not only because he was a singer of wide repute and distinction, a gifted producer of pageants, and a literary man of no mean ability,—but because he had the soul and sensibility of an artist. He was susceptible to lofty emotions and he was -capable of being touched by simplicity. He had an eye for the beauty in all things. He was passionately fond of flowers and an artist in their production. I have seen him transported with the rapture of a sunset, or the moon on a lake or over the tops of the mountains he loved so well. Years ago, before our southern scenery had been exploited as fully as it is now, and when there were relatively few visitors, I had the pleasure of taking him and his dear wife to see these points of interest. I watched him as he beheld the incomparable mountains of Zion near their lofty crested peaks high into the blue of heaven, and as he crept timidly out on a projected point to peer into the awful caverns of the Grand Canyon. I have never seen deeper appreciation of the beauties of nature. Then I brought him to the brink of Bryce, I thought there would be exclamations of wonder and surprise. But when he looked out on her jeweled spires, her cathedrals, her dainty nymphs and graces and beheld that matchless panorama of color and form, there were no words, but only tears and feeling too deep for expression. . . .
"You will not forget me? You will not forget me?" are the words he sings. I think I may reply for all when I say: "Never, George Pyper, so long as there is regard for friendship, for the beautiful, for the good and the true . . . never will we forget you!"
REMARKS
By Elder Milton Bennion
(At the funeral services)
For a third of a century it has been my privilege to be associated with Brother George D. Pyper in the work of the Deseret Sunday School Union Board. He was at the beginning of that period a veteran in the work, General Secretary, thoroughly familiar with the work of Sunday School and thoroughly able to participate effectively in every aspect of the Sunday School work. My impression of him then was that he was a very courteous, kindly and helpful elder brother. That impression has grown with me with the years and with my continued association with him.
A few years later he became a member of the General Superintendency, and with a second organization of this group he became General Superintendent. During these years he had charge- of the Sunday School offices and the publications of the Sunday School Union.
As you know, he was a very remarkable man. His artistic temperament was manifested in more diverse ways than is usual. He excelled in the fields of music, pageantry, dramatics and literature. We have all observed, I suppose, that some people of artistic temperament have little administrative ability. This was not the case with him. He was very capable as an administrative officer. As manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, director of pageants for the Church, manager of Tabernacle Choir tours, and in various capacities in the services of the State and the community, he manifested a great deal of business ability.
We know him, however, primarily as our leader in the work of the Church, with which he was thoroughly familiar, sound in doctrine, and loyal to the Church and to the community. With all his ability and his experience he was extremely modest and always wished to have the opinion of his associates about matters of importance pertaining to the Sunday School work. He would listen always to their suggestions and If they did not make any, he would commonly call for them. Not that he was ready to accept anything that we suggested, but he believed that in a multitude of counsel there is wisdom, and he wanted the benefit of that collective wisdom.
There was no trace in Brother Pyper of the Pharisaical disposition so often rebuked by Jesus. While he attended to all the details of the law and the Gospel, he never allowed these details to overshadow the great fundamental principles—the major items of the law—justice, kindness, and integrity—in these he was very strong. He recognized the priority of the greatest of the commandments, love of God and love of fellowmen; his love of God was expressed in his love and service of his fellows. He was indeed a friend of mankind; his sympathies and helpful actions went out to the poor and the underprivileged as much as to the wealthy and the powerful. Many people knew him as a good Samaritan. People who were in distress, not necessarily connected with the Sunday School organization, often came to his office to seek his counsel and help, to help them out of their mental troubles, and in many cases financial troubles. When anyone who knew him or knew of him wanted a little financial help and was desperate for it, he would come to Brother Pyper's office for assistance. Brother Pyper would rather make a mistake in giving to a person who did not deserve help than to give to somebody who did deserve it and who really needed it.
I am sure I speak for every member of the Sunday School Board when I say that we shall always love and esteem Superintendent Pyper. We join his family in mourning his departure, but also in rejoicing for the magnificent life that he lived and the good that he did. I pray that the memory of his personality, his fine spiritual character, may ever be a source of strength to inspire us to higher and better living. I ask it in the name of Jesus, Amen.
Bennion, Milton. "George D. Pyper." Relief Society Magazine. February 1943. pg. 93.
George D. Pyper
Milton Bennion
GEORGE D. PYPER, General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, passed away January 16, 1943. Funeral services were held in the Assembly Hall on Temple Square, in Salt Lake City, on January 19. All members of the First Presidency, the majority of the General Authorities, the Sunday School Union Board, and a host of friends and admirers of Superintendent Pyper were in attendance.
Brother Pyper had been an executive officer of the Sunday School Union Board for more than forty years. He had also served the Church, the state, and the local community in many other capacities. He was endowed with very superior artistic abilities but his artistic interests and attainments in nowise curtailed his business and administrative abilities. This was manifested in his long and successful term, as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre and in his management of numerous pageants, musical and dramatic performances, and publications, many of which he either wrote or edited.
In his youth and early manhood he served as clerk and later as judge of the Salt Lake City police court. This experience induced him to study law. These studies were, however, interrupted by a call to an extensive missionary tour in the company of Elders B. H. Roberts and Melvin J. Ballard. Numerous subsequent calls by both Church and state to important positions prevented Brother Pyper from resuming his legal studies.
To his intimate associates he was best known as a courteous, kind, sympathetic, and understanding friend; he was, indeed, a friend of man. While he was deeply religious, there was in him no trace of the Pharisaical attitude so frequently denounced by Jesus. While he attended to all the details of the precepts of the Church, he emphasized the ''weightier matters of the law"— justice, kindness, and integrity. His character was, in fact, the embodiment of these virtues. He had ever in mind the greatest of all the commandments— the love of God; this he expressed in the love and service of his fellow men. When they were in trouble they came to him for assistance with assurance that this assistance would be given to the limit of his ability.
George D. Pyper
Milton Bennion
GEORGE D. PYPER, General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, passed away January 16, 1943. Funeral services were held in the Assembly Hall on Temple Square, in Salt Lake City, on January 19. All members of the First Presidency, the majority of the General Authorities, the Sunday School Union Board, and a host of friends and admirers of Superintendent Pyper were in attendance.
Brother Pyper had been an executive officer of the Sunday School Union Board for more than forty years. He had also served the Church, the state, and the local community in many other capacities. He was endowed with very superior artistic abilities but his artistic interests and attainments in nowise curtailed his business and administrative abilities. This was manifested in his long and successful term, as manager of the Salt Lake Theatre and in his management of numerous pageants, musical and dramatic performances, and publications, many of which he either wrote or edited.
In his youth and early manhood he served as clerk and later as judge of the Salt Lake City police court. This experience induced him to study law. These studies were, however, interrupted by a call to an extensive missionary tour in the company of Elders B. H. Roberts and Melvin J. Ballard. Numerous subsequent calls by both Church and state to important positions prevented Brother Pyper from resuming his legal studies.
To his intimate associates he was best known as a courteous, kind, sympathetic, and understanding friend; he was, indeed, a friend of man. While he was deeply religious, there was in him no trace of the Pharisaical attitude so frequently denounced by Jesus. While he attended to all the details of the precepts of the Church, he emphasized the ''weightier matters of the law"— justice, kindness, and integrity. His character was, in fact, the embodiment of these virtues. He had ever in mind the greatest of all the commandments— the love of God; this he expressed in the love and service of his fellow men. When they were in trouble they came to him for assistance with assurance that this assistance would be given to the limit of his ability.
Bennion, Milton. "George D. Pyper." Improvement Era. March 1943. pg. 147, 183.
George D. Pyper First Assistant General Superintendent, Deseret Sunday School Union By Milton Bennion FOR a third of a century it has been my privilege to be associated with Brother George D. Pyper in the work of the Deseret Sunday School Union Board. He was at the beginning of that period a veteran in the work, general secretary, thoroughly familiar with the work of Sunday School and thoroughly able to participate effectively in every aspect of the Sunday School work. My impression of him then was that he was a very courteous, kindly and helpful elder brother. That impression has grown with me with the years and with my continued association with him. A few years later he became a member of the general superintendency, and with a reorganization of this group he became general superintendent. During these years he had charge of the Sunday School offices and the publications of the Sunday School Union. As you know, he was a very remarkable man. His artistic temperament was manifested in more diverse ways than is usual. He excelled in the fields of music, pageantry, dramatics, and literature. We have all observed, I suppose, that some people of artistic temperament have little administrative ability. This was not the case with him. He was very capable as an administrative officer. As manager of the Salt Lake Theatre, director of pageants for the Church, manager of Tabernacle Choir tours, and in various capacities in the service of the state and the community, he manifested a great deal of business ability. We know him, however, primarily as our leader in the work of the Church, with which he was thoroughly familiar, sound in doctrine, and loyal to the Church and to the community. With all his ability and his experience, he was extremely modest and always wished to have the opinion of his associates about matters of importance pertaining to the Sunday School work. He would listen always to their suggestions and if they did not make any, he would commonly call for them. Not that he was ready to accept anything that we suggested, but he believed that in a multitude of counsel there is wisdom, and he wanted the benefit of that collective wisdom. There was no trace in Brother Pyper of the Pharisaical disposition so often rebuked by Jesus. While he attended to all the details of the law and the gospel, he never allowed these details to overshadow the great fundamental principles—the major items of the law —justice, kindness, and integrity; in these he was very strong. He recognized the priority of the greatest of the commandments, love of God and love of fellow men; his love of God was expressed in his love and service to his fellows. He was indeed a friend of mankind; his sympathies and helpful actions went out to the poor and the underprivileged as much as to the wealthy and the powerful. Many people knew him as a good Samaritan. People who were in distress, not necessarily connected with the Sunday School organization, often came to his office to seek his counsel, to help them out of their mental troubles, and in many cases financial troubles. When anyone who knew him or knew of him wanted a little financial help and was desperate for it, he would come to Brother Pyper's office for assistance. Brother Pyper would rather make a mistake in giving to a person who did not deserve help than to refuse to give to somebody who did deserve it and who really needed it. I am sure I speak for every member of the Sunday School Board when I say that we shall always love and esteem Superintendent Pyper. We join his family in mourning his departure, but also in rejoicing for the magnificent life that he lived and the good that he did. I pray that the memory of his personality, his fine spiritual character, may ever be a source of strength to inspire us to higher and better living. I ask it in the name of Jesus, Amen. — Prom a tribute delivered at the funeral services and appearing in "The Instructor" for February 1943. |
PHOTOGRAPH OF GEORGE D. PYPER WITH FLOWER GIRLS IN TRIBUTE AND PLEDGE, OCTOBER CONFERENCE, 1937.
In George D. Pyper is personified the genius and much of the history of the great Sunday School movement. He not only has sat at the feet of al! of our great Sunday School leaders of the past, but he also, in his own life, represents the very spirit of Sunday School work. Nature endowed him richly. Al! of the patterns of the ages were available, and from them what a composite was built into the soul of George D. Pyper. There is in him the faith of Abraham, the music of David, the affection of Jonathan, the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job—all of these qualities crowned with the love and devotion of the Master. To know him is an honor; to be associated with him is one of the rarest privileges of life.—Adam S. Bennion. Milestones
GEORGE DOLLINGER Pyper, general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, died January 16, 1943, at eighty-two years of age. He had been ill for four weeks, following a heart attack suffered at his office, where he was wont to spend full and energetic days. His life, rich with the gifts of the spirit, was replete, too, with scenes and activities and events as they are measured by the calendar. Some of these milestones are enumerated below: Born in Salt Lake City, November 21, 1850, the son of Alexander C. and Christiana Dollinger Pyper As a boy, helped his father raise silkworms in the pioneer cocoonery near Eagle Gate (See Era, November, 1935); studied penmanship under Heber J. Grant and attended school in the Sugarhouse and Twelfth Ward schools, and, for a time, Brigham Young's private school Studied law two years, and attended University of Deseret under John R. Park 1875-1882 Police court clerk; justice of the peace, 1884; alderman and police judge, 1886-1890 1877-1885 Conducted the Twelfth Ward choir 1883 Married Emmaretta Smith Whitney in the Endowment House 1885 First operatic role in Patience: thereafter, for twenty-five years sang leading tenor role in the Salt Lake Opera Company 1890-1891 Associate editor. The Contributor: assistant secretary, Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society; secretary, state fair organization 1893 In charge of Utah agricultural exhibit at Chicago world fair; with Tabernacle Choir to San Francisco and Chicago 1896 Special missionary to Eastern States with Brigham H. Roberts and Melvin J. Ballard 1897 Appointed to Deseret Sunday School Union general board; in charge of Utah exhibit at the Tennessee Centennial, Nashville; secretary to Heber J. Grant (then Apostle); manager of Heber J. Grant Life Insurance Company 1898 Called to manage the Salt Lake Theatre, continuing until 1929, when the building was razed 1909 Managed Church exhibit at the Alaska-Yukon exposition, Seattle 1910 Associate editor. The Juvenile Instructor(now The Instructor) 1911 Managed Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir trip to National Irrigation Congress, New York, and concerts en route 1918 Became member of the Sunday School general superintendency under David O. McKay 1920 Appointed to Church Music Committee 1929 Published Romance of An Old Playhouse, informal history of the Salt Lake Theatre 1930 Chairman, Centennial Pageant Committee, which presented "The Message of the Ages" during commemoration of the Church centennial 1931 Visited the Hawaiian Mission 1933 Supervised preparation of Church exhibit at Century of Progress exposition, Chicago 1934 Became general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union; conducted Tabernacle Choir tour to Century of Progress exposition, Chicago 1937 Made European tour, visiting Sunday Schools 1939 Published Stories of L.D.S. Hymns (See Era, Volumes 39-42) In addition, George D. Pyper was affiliated in various capacities with numerous civic organizations: member, first Salt Lake Board of Education and first City Library Board; president. Salt Lake Oratorio Society; charter member, Orpheus Club; member. Philharmonic Society; manager and president. Musical Arts Society; president. Salt Lake Civic Music Association; member, Rotary Club. |
Wheelwright, Lorin F. "To George D. Pyper." Instructor. July 1943. pg. 366.
To George D. Pyper
By Lorin F. Wheelwright
Kind soul and gentle heart,
Your friendly smile and cheerful note
Remain in memory.
Your passing brings to me anew
That Youth is ageless,
Spring eternal,
For him who sees in Winter's blast
New life awaiting bloom.
To George D. Pyper
By Lorin F. Wheelwright
Kind soul and gentle heart,
Your friendly smile and cheerful note
Remain in memory.
Your passing brings to me anew
That Youth is ageless,
Spring eternal,
For him who sees in Winter's blast
New life awaiting bloom.
Sperry, Lucy G. "Tribute to George D. Pyper." Instructor. June 1949. pg. 265.
TRIBUTE TO GEORGE D. PYPER
Lucy G. Sperry
George D. Pyper, fifth general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School, came into the world in a log cabin, in Salt Lake City, on November 21, 1860, only a few days after Abraham Lincoln had first been elected President.
Like Lincoln, he became beloved among unnumbered legions—for his tenderness, his humility, his humor, his selflessness, and his leadership. No one who ever knew George D. Pyper could forget him. His character had all the rugged virtues of the Mormon pioneer that he was. It sparkled with a youth that extended over four score and two years. It glowed with a warmth that constantly drew men to him. It glistened with talent too, in music, in literature, and in drama.
George D. Pyper has been called "Utah's Sweet Songbird." Countless thousands thrilled at his tender tenor voice, on the opera stage as well as in the meetinghouse and tabernacle. He was a star at the old Salt Lake Theatre, which he also managed for thirty years.
Brother Pyper achieved much in other fields. He was the author of two books, Stories of Latter-day Saint Hymns and Romance of an Old Playhouse. He directed the great Church centennial pageant in the Salt Lake Tabernacle in 1930. He left his mark in nation-attracting expositions.
But nothing was closer to the heart of this lovable man than were the Sunday Schools of the Church. He gave to them abundantly and they in turn rewarded him richly. "When only eight years of age, he received his first Sabbath School recognition, a book, as an award of merit, in the old Sugar House Ward. He became a Sunday School secretary while yet in his teens. For twenty years, he was Sunday School general secretary. He was a member of the general board for 43 years, in the general superintendency for 23 years, and general superintendent for eight years. He was The Instructor's editor for 33 years.
The Sunday Schools of the Church grew in strength, in love, and in numbers under the leadership of George D. Pyper.
He looked forward to this centennial year. He wanted to be alive to celebrate with us. He is no doubt with us now—in the spirit. If he could speak so that we could hear, he would probably say, as he once did at a general board social in his honor:
"I don't deserve all this, but I love it."
TRIBUTE TO GEORGE D. PYPER
Lucy G. Sperry
George D. Pyper, fifth general superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School, came into the world in a log cabin, in Salt Lake City, on November 21, 1860, only a few days after Abraham Lincoln had first been elected President.
Like Lincoln, he became beloved among unnumbered legions—for his tenderness, his humility, his humor, his selflessness, and his leadership. No one who ever knew George D. Pyper could forget him. His character had all the rugged virtues of the Mormon pioneer that he was. It sparkled with a youth that extended over four score and two years. It glowed with a warmth that constantly drew men to him. It glistened with talent too, in music, in literature, and in drama.
George D. Pyper has been called "Utah's Sweet Songbird." Countless thousands thrilled at his tender tenor voice, on the opera stage as well as in the meetinghouse and tabernacle. He was a star at the old Salt Lake Theatre, which he also managed for thirty years.
Brother Pyper achieved much in other fields. He was the author of two books, Stories of Latter-day Saint Hymns and Romance of an Old Playhouse. He directed the great Church centennial pageant in the Salt Lake Tabernacle in 1930. He left his mark in nation-attracting expositions.
But nothing was closer to the heart of this lovable man than were the Sunday Schools of the Church. He gave to them abundantly and they in turn rewarded him richly. "When only eight years of age, he received his first Sabbath School recognition, a book, as an award of merit, in the old Sugar House Ward. He became a Sunday School secretary while yet in his teens. For twenty years, he was Sunday School general secretary. He was a member of the general board for 43 years, in the general superintendency for 23 years, and general superintendent for eight years. He was The Instructor's editor for 33 years.
The Sunday Schools of the Church grew in strength, in love, and in numbers under the leadership of George D. Pyper.
He looked forward to this centennial year. He wanted to be alive to celebrate with us. He is no doubt with us now—in the spirit. If he could speak so that we could hear, he would probably say, as he once did at a general board social in his honor:
"I don't deserve all this, but I love it."
Reiser, Albert Hamer. "George Dollinger Pyper." Instructor. June 1949. pg. 267-268, 279.
George Dollinger Pyper
Albert Hamer Reiser
George D. Pyper's career was well advanced when he entered my life for the first time. That was when Father took me to the Salt Lake Theater to see "Robin Hood," the gay outlaw of Sherwood Forest —played by light hearted George Dollinger Pyper of the golden tenor voice.
I did not know it then, but he told me later that at about that time, he was also city judge, and the general secretary and member of the Deseret Sunday School Board.
For twenty-five years, he was manager of the Salt Lake Theater. For an even longer time, he was active with other lovers of music, the arts and the theater, in bringing famous performers to Salt Lake City.
A few years later, I enjoyed a "close-up" of him at a Sunday School convention. He conducted the secretary's department and I attended as the secretary of the Tenth Ward Sunday School. By this time, he had been meeting Sunday School workers for more than 20 years and was to continue for more than 25 years more.
In this capacity and as a member of the general superintendency and later as general superintendent, he established something of a record for continuous Sunday School service on the general board.
He began under General Superintendent George Q. Cannon and served with every general superintendent from that time to the time he himself became general superintendent. His knowledge of Sunday School history, methods, experiences and people was accordingly very great, intimate and inspirational. His judgment was always sound and his discretion always wisely exercised.
He had known and worked with the Sunday School pioneers—Richard Ballantyne, Karl G. Maeser, George Reynolds, Joseph W. Summerhays, Levi Richards, George Goddard and William Willis, and more general and stake board members and ward workers than any one before or since.
His memory was a vast, well-ordered store house. His stories were especially choice and delightful. Think of all the church and Sunday School people and happenings he knew and add the theatrical people he knew and who knew him from his own home dramatic activities and his Salt Lake Theater days, remembering the artists and musicians and the business men with whom he worked through his long and varied career; then put all these together by the magic of his remarkable story sense and sense of humor. The outcome is what one might expect and what his friends so greatly enjoyed—an inexhaustible supply of delightful stories, always superbly well told. This made him a companion without a peer, whose company was sought by everyone. Every social gathering was richer for his presence.
His Sunday School career was unique. He had known the earliest union meetings, the famous and the first stake boards, the early Sunday School missionaries, the days when Sunday School parades and picnics were major community celebrations.
He had developed and managed more Sunday School programs for conventions, general conferences and special occasions than any other man. His ideas for inspirational features were seemingly inexhaustible.
Through the twenty-four years I knew him there were, to my knowledge, few program committees for annual conventions, April and October conferences, Easter, Mother's Day and Christmas that did not consult him for ideas and practical suggestions; and I have never once known him to fail them.
His dramatic and musical knowledge was great. His sense of the appropriate was unerring.
Throughout the Church, as among the dramatic and cultural people of the state, he was well-known and dearly beloved.
His great charm flowed in a deep and endless stream from his spontaneous generosity and unselfishness.
Amiable, cheerful, good-humored so very much of the time, one might wonder, if he had ever known any moments of sadness, sorrow or gloom. Only his very closest friends ever knew the truth. He had sorrows— his share—but he bore them silently, courageously.
No one will ever know how many people sought his companionship and advice because they knew his great good-will and kindliness to be a powerful tonic for their lonely, perplexed and sorrowing souls. He was sensitive to need and sorrow, always tender and sympathetic.
The most blessed people in his life, and the most deserving, were his cultured, kindly, generous wife, Emmaretta Whitney Pyper, his son, George W., his daughter "Retta" (Mrs. Harry Shepherd) , and his lucky granddaughters. Their home life must have been as near heaven on earth as any mortals ever enjoy. Certainly, the glimpses their friends caught of life with this father were never to be forgotten.
When I first became closely associated with him, he was second assistant general superintendent to David O. McKay and was associate editor of the Juvenile Instructor (later The Instructor) , and I was general secretary. He was well past 50 years of age. His several careers had already brought him honors, recognition for achievement, countless friends and admirers, wisdom, experience, knowledge and many skills. Yet he carried all with ease, grace and modesty. No one would ever know his wealth of mind and spirit until occasion arose for him to share it, and then it came forth like a flood.
This great wealth was the greater because of his skill in using it. He was a wise and successful executive because he knew so well what he wanted and knew how to motivate people to help him accomplish it.
The crowning strength and beauty of his life was his love for the word of the Lord and his great devotion to the Church, the people and the leaders of the Church. May the Lord bless us forever with our delightful memories of him and our great affection for him.
George Dollinger Pyper
Albert Hamer Reiser
George D. Pyper's career was well advanced when he entered my life for the first time. That was when Father took me to the Salt Lake Theater to see "Robin Hood," the gay outlaw of Sherwood Forest —played by light hearted George Dollinger Pyper of the golden tenor voice.
I did not know it then, but he told me later that at about that time, he was also city judge, and the general secretary and member of the Deseret Sunday School Board.
For twenty-five years, he was manager of the Salt Lake Theater. For an even longer time, he was active with other lovers of music, the arts and the theater, in bringing famous performers to Salt Lake City.
A few years later, I enjoyed a "close-up" of him at a Sunday School convention. He conducted the secretary's department and I attended as the secretary of the Tenth Ward Sunday School. By this time, he had been meeting Sunday School workers for more than 20 years and was to continue for more than 25 years more.
In this capacity and as a member of the general superintendency and later as general superintendent, he established something of a record for continuous Sunday School service on the general board.
He began under General Superintendent George Q. Cannon and served with every general superintendent from that time to the time he himself became general superintendent. His knowledge of Sunday School history, methods, experiences and people was accordingly very great, intimate and inspirational. His judgment was always sound and his discretion always wisely exercised.
He had known and worked with the Sunday School pioneers—Richard Ballantyne, Karl G. Maeser, George Reynolds, Joseph W. Summerhays, Levi Richards, George Goddard and William Willis, and more general and stake board members and ward workers than any one before or since.
His memory was a vast, well-ordered store house. His stories were especially choice and delightful. Think of all the church and Sunday School people and happenings he knew and add the theatrical people he knew and who knew him from his own home dramatic activities and his Salt Lake Theater days, remembering the artists and musicians and the business men with whom he worked through his long and varied career; then put all these together by the magic of his remarkable story sense and sense of humor. The outcome is what one might expect and what his friends so greatly enjoyed—an inexhaustible supply of delightful stories, always superbly well told. This made him a companion without a peer, whose company was sought by everyone. Every social gathering was richer for his presence.
His Sunday School career was unique. He had known the earliest union meetings, the famous and the first stake boards, the early Sunday School missionaries, the days when Sunday School parades and picnics were major community celebrations.
He had developed and managed more Sunday School programs for conventions, general conferences and special occasions than any other man. His ideas for inspirational features were seemingly inexhaustible.
Through the twenty-four years I knew him there were, to my knowledge, few program committees for annual conventions, April and October conferences, Easter, Mother's Day and Christmas that did not consult him for ideas and practical suggestions; and I have never once known him to fail them.
His dramatic and musical knowledge was great. His sense of the appropriate was unerring.
Throughout the Church, as among the dramatic and cultural people of the state, he was well-known and dearly beloved.
His great charm flowed in a deep and endless stream from his spontaneous generosity and unselfishness.
Amiable, cheerful, good-humored so very much of the time, one might wonder, if he had ever known any moments of sadness, sorrow or gloom. Only his very closest friends ever knew the truth. He had sorrows— his share—but he bore them silently, courageously.
No one will ever know how many people sought his companionship and advice because they knew his great good-will and kindliness to be a powerful tonic for their lonely, perplexed and sorrowing souls. He was sensitive to need and sorrow, always tender and sympathetic.
The most blessed people in his life, and the most deserving, were his cultured, kindly, generous wife, Emmaretta Whitney Pyper, his son, George W., his daughter "Retta" (Mrs. Harry Shepherd) , and his lucky granddaughters. Their home life must have been as near heaven on earth as any mortals ever enjoy. Certainly, the glimpses their friends caught of life with this father were never to be forgotten.
When I first became closely associated with him, he was second assistant general superintendent to David O. McKay and was associate editor of the Juvenile Instructor (later The Instructor) , and I was general secretary. He was well past 50 years of age. His several careers had already brought him honors, recognition for achievement, countless friends and admirers, wisdom, experience, knowledge and many skills. Yet he carried all with ease, grace and modesty. No one would ever know his wealth of mind and spirit until occasion arose for him to share it, and then it came forth like a flood.
This great wealth was the greater because of his skill in using it. He was a wise and successful executive because he knew so well what he wanted and knew how to motivate people to help him accomplish it.
The crowning strength and beauty of his life was his love for the word of the Lord and his great devotion to the Church, the people and the leaders of the Church. May the Lord bless us forever with our delightful memories of him and our great affection for him.
Ashton, Wendell J. "Ripples - George D. Pyper Greeted Heartaches with a Smile." Instructor. February 1970. pg. 77.
RIPPLES
GEORGE D. PYPER:
GREETED HEARTACHES WITH A SMILE.[1]
Thomas F. Patton is the well-groomed, gray-haired chairman of the board of Republic Steel Corporation.
Mr. Patton, a law school graduate, was recently asked how he picks young men for leadership roles in his company.
The first four measures he listed as intelligence, willingness to work hard, reliability, and honesty. Then the steel leader added: "Fifth, he has to have a sense of humor. I consider that very important." Mr. Patton concluded his list with No. 6, ambition.[2]
Today I have been recalling some of the people whose humor has spiced my life. There was a dimpled mother named Dolly who lived a few doors from my boyhood home. A red-cheeked lad we called Happy kept us smiling. So did a high school football water boy named Beans.
Few ever made me laugh around a luncheon table like Artur Rubenstein, the renowned concert pianist, telling about his courtship on the ski slopes of Poland and other tales.
But no one lifted me with laughter like lovable George D. Pyper, for 30 years manager of the historic Salt Lake Theatre and eight years general superintendent of Church Sunday Schools. For the last six months of his life I served with him as general secretary. Like most of us, he had his share of heartaches. But he always seemed to meet them with a quip.
I remember the chill December morning in 1942 when George D. Pyper was stricken with the heart attack that a month later took his life. He was 82. After removing his gray hat and heavy black coat, he reeled to his office floor. We called a doctor. After he worked over the white-haired leader for some time. Superintendent Pyper blinked. Gasping for breath, he smiled: "Well, Saint Peter, it was a false alarm that time." As the ambulance attendants lifted him on the stretcher, he added: "Put my arms over my chest. That's the way they pose them."
Not long ago a friend gave me a new biography[3] of Sir Walter Raleigh, Britain's famed soldier, explorer, writer, and businessman during the glorious reign of the first Queen Elizabeth. Perhaps because I had once wandered through London's gray, turreted Tower of London where Raleigh was imprisoned for 12 years, I began reading the book's last chapter first.
Sir Walter was sentenced to die through beheading. As he walked through the crowd toward the scaffold, he saw an old man with his bald head exposed to the chill October air. Raleigh removed his lace nightcap from under his velvet cap. Handing it to the man, he smiled: "You need this, my friend, more than I."
Sir Walter, who in more splendorous days wore pearls in his ears and on his shoes and emeralds and rubies on his coat, was now dressed simply in black waistcoat and breeches with ash-colored silk stockings. He asked the assembly to pray with him. Then the hooded headsman kneeled before Sir Walter and asked forgiveness. It was granted. Raleigh asked to see the ax. He ran his finger over the blade, and said: "This gives me no fear. It is a sharp and fair medicine to cure me of all my diseases." He smiled again.
In death the great Elizabethan was in full command, with flashes of sparkling wit. His humor was probably a surface rippling of a deep inner faith and courage.
Eliphaz told his sorely tried friend Job: "At destruction and famine shalt thou laugh: neither shalt thou be afraid of the beasts of the earth."[4]
"But a sense of humor is something you are born with," you may say. Perhaps so. But George D. Pyper worked at his. Like Thomas A. Edison, he made a hobby of collecting good jokes. Superintendent Pyper once told me he had reviewed 100,000 funny stories.
In any event, few could argue with Thomas F. Patton of Republic Steel. A sense of humor is important. Life is richer if you can laugh at it often, beginning with yourself. —Wendell J. Ashton.
Library File Reference: ATTITUDES.
[1] For Course 17, lesson 29 (April 12), "Gems of Wisdom"; for Course 25, lesson 24 (March 1), "The Power of Example"; for Course 27, lesson 25 (April 5), "Let Your Light So Shine"; to support family home evening lesson 24; and of general interest.
[2] Nation's Business, October, 1969, pages 57-8.
[3] J. H. Adamson and H. F. Folland, The Shepherd of the Ocean; Gambit, Inc., Boston, Mass., 1969.
[4] Job 5:22.
RIPPLES
GEORGE D. PYPER:
GREETED HEARTACHES WITH A SMILE.[1]
Thomas F. Patton is the well-groomed, gray-haired chairman of the board of Republic Steel Corporation.
Mr. Patton, a law school graduate, was recently asked how he picks young men for leadership roles in his company.
The first four measures he listed as intelligence, willingness to work hard, reliability, and honesty. Then the steel leader added: "Fifth, he has to have a sense of humor. I consider that very important." Mr. Patton concluded his list with No. 6, ambition.[2]
Today I have been recalling some of the people whose humor has spiced my life. There was a dimpled mother named Dolly who lived a few doors from my boyhood home. A red-cheeked lad we called Happy kept us smiling. So did a high school football water boy named Beans.
Few ever made me laugh around a luncheon table like Artur Rubenstein, the renowned concert pianist, telling about his courtship on the ski slopes of Poland and other tales.
But no one lifted me with laughter like lovable George D. Pyper, for 30 years manager of the historic Salt Lake Theatre and eight years general superintendent of Church Sunday Schools. For the last six months of his life I served with him as general secretary. Like most of us, he had his share of heartaches. But he always seemed to meet them with a quip.
I remember the chill December morning in 1942 when George D. Pyper was stricken with the heart attack that a month later took his life. He was 82. After removing his gray hat and heavy black coat, he reeled to his office floor. We called a doctor. After he worked over the white-haired leader for some time. Superintendent Pyper blinked. Gasping for breath, he smiled: "Well, Saint Peter, it was a false alarm that time." As the ambulance attendants lifted him on the stretcher, he added: "Put my arms over my chest. That's the way they pose them."
Not long ago a friend gave me a new biography[3] of Sir Walter Raleigh, Britain's famed soldier, explorer, writer, and businessman during the glorious reign of the first Queen Elizabeth. Perhaps because I had once wandered through London's gray, turreted Tower of London where Raleigh was imprisoned for 12 years, I began reading the book's last chapter first.
Sir Walter was sentenced to die through beheading. As he walked through the crowd toward the scaffold, he saw an old man with his bald head exposed to the chill October air. Raleigh removed his lace nightcap from under his velvet cap. Handing it to the man, he smiled: "You need this, my friend, more than I."
Sir Walter, who in more splendorous days wore pearls in his ears and on his shoes and emeralds and rubies on his coat, was now dressed simply in black waistcoat and breeches with ash-colored silk stockings. He asked the assembly to pray with him. Then the hooded headsman kneeled before Sir Walter and asked forgiveness. It was granted. Raleigh asked to see the ax. He ran his finger over the blade, and said: "This gives me no fear. It is a sharp and fair medicine to cure me of all my diseases." He smiled again.
In death the great Elizabethan was in full command, with flashes of sparkling wit. His humor was probably a surface rippling of a deep inner faith and courage.
Eliphaz told his sorely tried friend Job: "At destruction and famine shalt thou laugh: neither shalt thou be afraid of the beasts of the earth."[4]
"But a sense of humor is something you are born with," you may say. Perhaps so. But George D. Pyper worked at his. Like Thomas A. Edison, he made a hobby of collecting good jokes. Superintendent Pyper once told me he had reviewed 100,000 funny stories.
In any event, few could argue with Thomas F. Patton of Republic Steel. A sense of humor is important. Life is richer if you can laugh at it often, beginning with yourself. —Wendell J. Ashton.
Library File Reference: ATTITUDES.
[1] For Course 17, lesson 29 (April 12), "Gems of Wisdom"; for Course 25, lesson 24 (March 1), "The Power of Example"; for Course 27, lesson 25 (April 5), "Let Your Light So Shine"; to support family home evening lesson 24; and of general interest.
[2] Nation's Business, October, 1969, pages 57-8.
[3] J. H. Adamson and H. F. Folland, The Shepherd of the Ocean; Gambit, Inc., Boston, Mass., 1969.
[4] Job 5:22.
Richards, Lynn S. "Inspiration from the Lives of Eight Men - George D. Pyper." Instructor. October 1970. pg. 379-380.
Inspiration from the Lives of Eight Men
By First Asst. General Superintendent Lynn S. Richards
George D. Pyper
On October 30, 1934 George D. Pyper was appointed by President Heber J. Grant as fifth general Sunday School superintendent to succeed President David O. McKay. For 16 years he had served in the superintendency with President McKay. Of Brother Pyper, President Heber J. Grant was heard to say, "Not only [is he] intelligent and forceful, but one of the kindest and most sympathetic men I have ever known."[1] President David O. McKay said of him:
I am impelled to say that my beloved friend and associate had one of the most evenly balanced temperaments of all men I have ever known. From the center to the surface of his nature he was as genuine and pure as gold ... He was always reserved, unpretentious, genial, modest, dignified; his advice wholesome, his judgment sound. If given an offence he would never retaliate. He was open, loyal, true; of humane and affable demeanor; generous himself, and in his judgment of others. Faithful to his word, as to law; and faithful alike to his friends and to God—these . . . attributes made him a true follower of our Lord and Savior.[2]
He sought the opinions of his associates about matters of importance. He always erred on the side of charity and preferred making a mistake by giving to those who did not deserve help, rather than refusing someone who did.
[1] Tribute to Superintendent George D, Pyper," by Heber J. Grant, The Instructor, February, 1943, page 67.
[2] "Closing Scenes of a Noble Career," by David O. McKay, The Instructor, February, 1943, pages 67, 68.
Inspiration from the Lives of Eight Men
By First Asst. General Superintendent Lynn S. Richards
George D. Pyper
On October 30, 1934 George D. Pyper was appointed by President Heber J. Grant as fifth general Sunday School superintendent to succeed President David O. McKay. For 16 years he had served in the superintendency with President McKay. Of Brother Pyper, President Heber J. Grant was heard to say, "Not only [is he] intelligent and forceful, but one of the kindest and most sympathetic men I have ever known."[1] President David O. McKay said of him:
I am impelled to say that my beloved friend and associate had one of the most evenly balanced temperaments of all men I have ever known. From the center to the surface of his nature he was as genuine and pure as gold ... He was always reserved, unpretentious, genial, modest, dignified; his advice wholesome, his judgment sound. If given an offence he would never retaliate. He was open, loyal, true; of humane and affable demeanor; generous himself, and in his judgment of others. Faithful to his word, as to law; and faithful alike to his friends and to God—these . . . attributes made him a true follower of our Lord and Savior.[2]
He sought the opinions of his associates about matters of importance. He always erred on the side of charity and preferred making a mistake by giving to those who did not deserve help, rather than refusing someone who did.
[1] Tribute to Superintendent George D, Pyper," by Heber J. Grant, The Instructor, February, 1943, page 67.
[2] "Closing Scenes of a Noble Career," by David O. McKay, The Instructor, February, 1943, pages 67, 68.