Friedsam Memorial Library can ar- guably be found in the main read- area boasts Roman arched windows, a ceil- ing coffered with American black walnut, large bookshelves lining the walls, a mas- sive fireplace -- and 14 beautiful hand- crafted study tables. socializing. ston Lumber Company in Olean. Fourteen of the tables reside in the main reading room of the library, while four enhance the Curriculum Center on the lower level. Masi had relocated from Arlington, Va., to Olean with his wife, Rose Abbott Masi, who was born there. community surrounding the University. As well as creating the tables for Friedsam, his handiwork could be found in the bar of the former Castle Restaurant and the stairway projects. He passed away in December 2012 at the age of 95. communications specialist in World War II and he served as a volunteer at the Olean Public Library. one of Masi's four daughters. "He was curi- ous about everything, and even in his ad- vanced age he continued reading newspapers and magazines." with such a strong affinity for learning and such artistic talent, began to weather, Sr. Margaret Carney, O.S.F., president of the University, decided to get the craftsman's family involved and approached his eldest grandson, Matthew Utecht. keep this family legacy alive with family do- nations to fund whatever work needed to be done," said Gabler. Karen Masi Utecht; Kathleen Masi Kosciol, '68 (BA); and Francine Masi Gabler, who taught accounting in the School of Business from 1981-1983. Their combined gift funded the refinishing work completed this past summer by Harden Furniture of Mc- Connellsville, N.Y. master craftsman and a dedicated learner. On each of the tables are two ornate lamps that provide lighting for students. The sur- faces are finished with a gleaming varnish that supports a good work environment. Both of Masi's passions are present here on the refinished tables. Friedsam Library, and they are also proud of what the tables mean to the Bonaventure community. An untold number of students have used the tables through the years, and it is gratifying to the family to know the ta- bles will continue to be used and appreci- ated in the future. Marquand Masi is pictured with his daughters, Kathleen, Karen, Susan and Francine. |