In Memory of Leo F. Carolan

Leo F. Carolan
April 19, 1930 - March 11, 2004


In Memory of Leo F. Carolan
on what would have been his 90th birthday.

THE BREAD MAN

Leo would travel anywhere for good bread

He'd call ahead for four-pound loaves

of Russian rye from Pechter's in Harrison

or drive to Calandra's in Newark

for pannellas, sesame seeded bastones

and golden semolinas

He'd travel to Balthazar's in Englewood

or The Baker's Wife in Tappan, New York

for multi-grains, great marbled masterpieces

or crusty artisan ciabattas

His old Chevy would retain the yeasty aroma for days

He'd share the good bread

with relatives, friends, neighbors, and co-workers

People called him, "The Bread Man"

That was the good bread

Leo also shared the Best Bread

He administered the Best Bread

with well-baked crustiness gleaned

from working twenty-five years

as a probation officer

and the soft interior texture

born of a kneaded spirit

There were those

who tore into it impatiently

and devoured the entire loaf

without condiment, while still warm

Others thoughtfully partook

the nourishment for body and soul

He always left them

with something fresh to chew

and a few seeds for ongoing growth

He always left them

with the lingering fragrance

of the presence of the Lord

Taste and see…

Take and eat…

Maude Carolan