by Eugene Hernandez/indieWIRE
Sadly we report on the passing of Timothy Gruver, founder of the Tallgrass Film Festival in Wichita, Kansas and also founder of WAMPA (Wichita Association for the Motion Pictures Arts). He was born January 6, 1972.
According to The Wichita Eagle, Tim suffered a seizure near his home and died on Tuesday. The article also include information on Saturday's service for Tim.
While I certainly didn't know him well enough, Tim was a familiar face on the festival circuit in recent years, always wearing a bright smile (punctuated by a laugh) and advocating passionately on behalf of his festival. indieWIRE reported on the launch of his festival more than 2 years ago and we are saddened to hear of his passing. Tim, your absence will be noticed.
Peter Jasso, director of the Kansas Film Commission, wrote in an email forwarded to indieWIRE late tonight, "He was someone who dared to dream big and served as an example of what is possible in this state. The independent film community in this state is better off because of Tim and his memory will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family."
Supporters are committed to continuing the festival this year in his honor. We cannot think of a more appropriate tribute. We salute Tim and send our deepest condolences to his loved ones and colleagues.
The Wichita Eagle has also created a link to a guest book for memories and condolences.
Tim's bio follows, as published on the Tallgrass website:
TIMOTHY OLIVER GRUVER
TIMOTHY GRUVER recently founded the WICHITA ASSOCIATION FOR THE MOTION PICTURES ARTS, a 501(c)3 arts organization that will present the annual TALLGRASS FILM FESTIVAL for Wichita, Kansas. Prior to his work as the Marketing Coordinator for the 2002 IFP/WEST-LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL, Mr. Gruver was the Office Manager for 2001 OUTFEST: LOS ANGELES GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL.
As a filmmaker, Mr. Gruver has most recently produced the award-winning THE MOMENT AFTER starring its director GERALD MCCULLOUCH (CSI). He co-founded WILD INDIANS ENTERTAINMENT GROUP with LELA MEADOW, developing the television series PARADISE CITY with KEVIN KELLY BROWN(Roswell) and LAWRENCE BENDER PRODUCTIONS (Pulp Fiction, Good Will Hunting). Wild Indians has also set up the feature motion picture THE BOYS OF ’68 at MIRAMAX PICTURES. Mr. Gruver has also written and produced a documentary, ABSOLUTELY EVERYBODY, and directed the short film, THE OPEN WINDOW.
As a talent manager, Mr. Gruver has represented KASIA FIGURA (Ready-to-Wear, The Pianist) and JOHN BURKE (AMC Host).
Mr. Gruver credits his education not only to BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY film school, but to his first industry job, DREAMWORKS SKG, where he worked during the productions of THE PRINCE OF EGYPT, EL DORADO and SHREK.
Mr. Gruver is currently represented by the WILLIAM MORRIS AGENCY.
* Best Short Film, Rhode Island International Film Festival (Academy Award-eligibility acquired) Best Short Film, Honolulu Gay & Lesbian Film Festival
