Roy Haeger's Work Posted

AlArchie · #1 10-23-2005, 10:52 AM

I just made a new album of some of the canes carved by Roy Haeger before he passed away over a year ago now. Roy was one of those gentle giants who prowled the earth offering a hand to anyone who needed it. He had a handshake and a smile, either of which could crush you or welcome you into his home or shop. Roy also offered many of these beautiful canes to folks who were in need of a cane.

Roy, Judy and some of his friends would spend hours wandering the wilderness areas of Northern Wisconsin, searching out just the right sapplings or branches to transform into carved wonders.

He was the vice president of the Gogebic Range Carvers and Woodworkers Association, and was highly instrumental in the continuing success of the club.

Roy was the one individual who got me interested in cane carving (how can you not become interested when sticks like these are produced?) When Judy offered me several of Roy's raw sticks to work on I was more than glad to accept them, but thought that this was an opportunity to put some of Roy's work on display.

His style was bold, colorful, forcefull, yet gentle.....just check the difference between the eagle and the floral motifs. If you ever get the chance to see one of Roy's canes in person, you'll recognize it as one of his immediately!

Earlier this month I had a very great compliment paid to me, although a little "back door", when several people at our carving show asked me if my canes were carved by "that guy from Wisconsin"! I haven't reached anywhere near Roy's competence in carving these sticks, but that really felt good.

Judy said she'd send a few more photos over when she has time, so when they come in, I'll post them.

http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.co...&condition=and
Al

Butch_Speer · #2 10-23-2005, 07:45 PM

Al,
Would enjoy seeing the pics when you get them.

AlArchie · #3 10-23-2005, 11:59 PM

Judy sent over a few more pictures of thier favorite canes. The inscription on her favorite is

"A Place in Time, A Love All Mine, Thank you Lord"

Tried to choke back a tear when that came through....didn't work. Like I said...a gentle giant!

Al

BasketballJones · #4 10-24-2005, 02:38 PM

Nice canes. A while back the topic of Hall of Fame was mentioned. To me a Hall of Fame is a memoriam. A place were one can view the carvings and read a tribute about regular carvers who have moved on to greener pastures.

AlArchie · #5 10-31-2005, 02:08 PM

I just found another photo of Roy's diamond willow canes.....I posted it over in the gallery but will try to get it up here, too. Haven't had much luck postin on the discussion board, but here goes......

Kenny_S · #6 10-31-2005, 05:48 PM

He was one fine carver for sure. thanks Al.

to hear of his passing on to the big carving block.