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My pocket shook from the vibration of my phone as watching football practice. I
read the text and wondered. " Who are they talking about? What happened?"  I then noticed the spelling of my former colleague's name and my heart sank. My stomach felt sick, and it still feels sick.

He welcomed me to the fourth grade team and we worked together for eight years before he retired. He taught me the ropes of the 4th grade science curriculum, how to let children be children, and how to get past the teacher griping. Since his retirement, I have not worked with anyone so quietly dedicated to children's learning and their well-being.

I wish I had the words to share how much he was loved and appreciated by his
students, colleagues, parents, friends, and family. My heart goes out to his wife, children, grandchildren, and dog (they had an incredible bond).

Sitting here, I hear his music and his laugh. It makes me smile and I think, Sing your heart out, and give 'em hell in heaven, Bryan.
Amy Rudd
9/17/2013 10:35:15 am

Sorry to hear about your colleague's passing. Great that you are reveling in the memory of his music.

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9/17/2013 10:52:50 am

I'm sorry to hear about your loss. He sounds like he was a great teacher and mentor.

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9/17/2013 11:05:42 am

So sorry to hear of your loss, he sounds like wonderful human being, and colleague.

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anita
9/17/2013 11:55:58 am

What a lovely tribute to a colleague who is certainly with you in spirit every day. he taught you how to get past "teacher griping"...wow...what a gift. Let your children be children for a few extra moments tomorrow to honor his memory. He will certainly smile from the heavens.

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9/17/2013 12:51:58 pm

My deepest sympathy goes out to you. Having lost a teaching partner, I know the whole it leaves. Hang tight to the memories and be listening for him to continue influencing your daily grind. Blessings to you, and to his other loved ones...

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9/17/2013 01:23:06 pm

I'm so sorry for the loss of your colleague. He sounds like someone to count on and I imagine you missed him when he retired too. I hope you share this with his family.

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9/17/2013 07:28:19 pm

Sounds like you have lost someone really, really special. I hope you will get to share this with his wife and children.

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