Joe Wannamaker

[rick-in-seattle]

Joe passed away at home July 24, 2007.

[Mitchell]

That's sad to hear....I know he's been sick for a while.

My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

Thanks for the update Rick.

[gene-messer]

I use to love to look at his carvings ... He was a great carver in the CCA ...

My prayers for the family and it's always sad to loose such a great talent .. Iam sure he touched so many lives with his art ...

God Bless Those Who Where Close To Him ...

Gene

[Lynn O. Doughty]

Sorry to see him go. He was a class act, an original. While I didn't know him that well, we crossed paths several times at various shows around the country and I always looked forward to setting with him and his dear wife to exchange stories and ideas. He'll be missed and our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

My sincere condolences to the family....may God bless them!

[Mark N. Akers]

Joe is were I got my start,I used to go over to his house(he lived a couple of blocks form me)and watch him carve,he handed me a knife one day and said get going.I owe Joe for the base of my start and he will be saddly missed.I have about 25 of his christmas tree ornaments,so he will be remembered in our house all the time.Till we me again ole friend.

[Jim OH]

Joe was a nice guy. Always had time to talk and what a wonderful carver! His work was among my favorites and I was fortunate enough to purchase a "Grinch" carving from him. He will certainly be missed. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
Jim OH

[Paul_Guraedy]

Yesterday I had a beginning woodcarver in for her first lesson. I explained that some years ago I had taken a class with Joe Wannamaker and we had carved a Christmas goose.

I do not like to start a student simply carving/gouging lines to learn the feel and use of the tools. This can lead to boredom and turn off potential woodcarvers. Joe's Christmas goose pattern is perfect for beginners. I have them do a few practice cuts with each tool before starting on the carving. I draw the pattern onto a thin piece of basswood. The student then starts to relieve the pattern by cutting it from the board using the v tool, knife and gouges. It is simple and we use every tool (+ knife) in Rick's beginner set. Once the carving has been "cut out" they begin their first piece. I require that they carve three different ornaments and have them draw a variation of Joe's goose by using a scarf, stocking cap, etc.

Our path's have not crossed in several years. I thought I would have an opportunity to thank Joe and explain how much his pattern means to these potential woodcarvers.

Belatedly, I offer my thanks to Joe for developing such a useful and beautiful pattern. I know that he would be pleased that he is still starting beginning woodcarvers on their exploration of our art.