11.07.2005

For Public Release

by Lucas O’Bryen Laudes Editor

Dr. Jim Shortt, Faculty Advisor to the Men's Glee Club from 1953 to 1988, died on Saturday, Sept. 17 at age 81. A memorial service was held at First Presbyterian Church in Ann Arbor the following Friday. Over 40 Glee Club alumni and current members attended the service, and were conducted in Goddess of the Inland Seas, Yellow and Blue, and The Hymn by Dr. Paul Rardin in honor of Dr. Shortt. Also in attendance were former Glee Club directors Dr. Jerry Blackstone and Prof. Stephen Lusmann.

Many in attendance stood up to say something about Dr. Shortt, usually without having planned to speak. " He was the only guy I knew who could back out of his driveway without using his mirror or looking over his shoulder," said Michael Behm, Glee Club alumnus. Nearly everyone who spoke said something about Dr. Shortt's love for taking his friends out to dinner. "In the Bible, we see a picture of heaven as a community, as a feast. He's going to love that," said Rev. Melissa Anne Rogers, presiding over the service.

Some commented on Dr. Shortt's business skills. "Jim was instrumental in helping to form the Republic Bank in Ann Arbor from the very beginning to the 90s," said Lee Benz, president of Benz Insurance and friend of Dr. Shortt. " He defined what it means to be in public relations. He knew how to deal with people, he was a great public relations guy," said Jim Day, Glee Club alumnus.

Dr. Shortt's brother Charles affirmed the almost celebratory atmosphere of the service. "He's saying, 'Yes!' I'm sure somewhere he's watching this service, and he's grateful for the Glee Club showing up." Alumni showed up to rehearsal the night before the service to practice the music. The Club would like to thank all alumni who were able to attend.

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