Alan Chalk, 89; Former Staples High School English Teacher, Veteran
ObituaryAlan George Chalk, age 89, passed away in his home surrounded by love and family, on Monday, May 31st, 2021.
Alan was born in 1931 in Springfield, Massachusetts. He met his beloved wife Norma LaFlamme of Ludlow, Massachusetts and they married 70 years ago. Alan joined the Navy during the Korean War and did 2 world tours. In 1952, his experiences traveling in Japan and meeting the people touched him deeply and a lifelong journey commenced.
He received his teaching degree at Wesleyan University and attended the University of Iowa PHD Program. He moved to Fairfield in 1961 where he lived the rest of his life. His first teaching position was at Staples High School in Westport developing an innovative creative writing program. He became the Chairman of the English Department at Weston High School in 1972. He was voted Teacher of the Year in 1989. He retired from Weston High School in 1991.
He began a new career as consultant, writer, and teacher specializing in postwar and contemporary Japanese literature and film and developed an extensive library. He developed the curriculum for the first Center for Japanese Study Abroad magnet school in Norwalk. He traveled extensively but Japan remained closest to his heart, and he led tours both with students and teachers, as well as family sharing his knowledge and love of Japan. He wrote novels, short stories and poetry, many inspired by his travels in Japan.
He was a master teacher, writer, wood sculptor and photographer and also found the time to raise five children with Norma, remodeling the house, and creating beautiful gardens.
In his own words, "I exist in a style of anonymity and I ask a thousand questions. I find that I ask questions I don't have the answer to and this may be the key to effective teaching. I am always learning. Every day."
He loved teaching and deeply cared about his students and staff which is reflected in the letters from students and parents thanking him for his inspiration and caring during pivotal times in their lives; letters from teachers whom he helped to become master teachers themselves, the articles, awards and acknowledgements grateful for the impact he made on so many lives.
A plaque on his wall which was a gift, is a good way to summarize.
"A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops."
He is survived by his beloved family; daughters Lynn and Karen, sons Brian, Gary, David, son-in-law Scott, daughter-in-law Laura, grandchildren, Jesse, Danielle, Gabrielle, Billy, Maya, Sammy, Nicole and her family Jeff, Tenley, Caiden Blaiotta; great-grandchildren Lyla and Jude. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Norma who was an integral part of his accomplishments and to whom he gives much of the credit. Also Dan Magida, a former student from Staples over 50 years ago, who was one of his best friends.
Contributions in his memory can be made to Habitat for Humanity Fairfield County, where his wife was a longtime volunteer. https://www.habitatcfc.org/