Mr.Pash expressed his joy for life through a passion for Christ as well as a passion for music. He became mindful of the importance of music in worship services while working at a Baptist church in New Jersey. It was here that he began to apply scripture verses as text for choral reponses, calls to worship, and prayer responses. He often said that it was through music that he became more deeply committed to following Christ.
Mr. Pash came to Korea in the summer of 2007, and he chose GSIS to take on the challenge of developing a high school music program. He was passionate about his work, and just as passionate about the students. Senior Patrick Huh noted, “Mr. Pash was always dedicated in his work, and was always there to help his students. Everyday he helped me learn new things and he always provided work that would help us in the future. He was my maestro.” It was common for Mr. Pash to open up his classroom during his lunch breaks so that students could come and practice. He was not only a teacher, but also a counselor and mentor to many of the kids that walked into the band room.
On Oct 27, 2010, at approximately 10:00, Mr. Pash left Ah Joo Hospital to go to Heaven. He had been complaining about pains whenever he breathed, but had disregarded them because he was busy with teaching. However, when he was rushed to the hospital that evening, the doctors said that Mr.Pash’s cholesterol level was dangerously high, and that it had completely blocked his main artery. The doctors performed a surgery on Oct 27, 2010, but they could not keep Mr. Pash from leaving.
A year has passed since Mr. Pash’s departure, and he is still dearly missed in the hallways and hearts of GSIS. The GSIS Orchestra and Strings Ensemble gave a special performance during chapel in order to celebrate Christmas with Mr. Pash. The entire school community believed that Mr. Pash would hear to the performances and enjoy the music that he had worked so hard to create at GSIS. Junior Kathy Yun said, “He always ready to listen to me and give a thoughtful response that would make my day better. He would always say he is proud of me and it made me feel special. Mr. Pash told me I have much potential as an artist.” Mr. Pash was a great teacher and mentor to GSIS and he will be always in GSIS’ heart. We continue to be moved by his guidance to praise God through our music.
