Dr. Herbert Paper, z”l
Expert in Persian Jewish texts
A Yiddishist
He sat towards the rear of the shul
Straight-backed
Bow-tied
Quick mind
Quick talker
Great schmoozer
Familiar because he was like
An Uncle.
A herring eater
Big smile
Geshmacht
A delicious presence
This academic avuncular linguist
Lover of language
And Jews —
Heimish.
I never had him for a class —
How’s your family
How many children
How’s your wife —
Tell me about your life.
One of the friendliest teachers
I never had.
Emeser mensch
Olov ha-sholem.
jsg, usa