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Robert Thomas Carkner
Robert Thomas Carkner
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Robert Carkner Obituary
CARKNER Robert Thomas It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Robert (Bob) Carkner on August 2, 2009. Born on October 10, 1935, he was taken too soon from his loving family. Bob obtained his Bachelor of Physical Education at UBC with post graduate studies in counseling, and a Master of Education in Administration at Western Washington State College. He had a full 35 year career starting briefly in Vancouver as a teacher at David Thompson and Sir Charles Tupper and finally counseling coordinator at Vancouver School Board. Most importantly, he was a high school principal for 22 years at Hugh Boyd, London, Steveston and Richmond where he made his mark on so many lives. Bob was most noted for his involvement in his profession and community. He belonged to numerous committees and was the director of many of them. Board member assignments included G.F. Strong, B.C. Teachers Federation Global Education Project, Vancouver and District Athletic Association and involvement in organizing a BC Space Symposium. He was the director of Richmond Partners in Community Conference, chairperson to Richmond's Science and Technology Awareness as well as Richmond's Principals Association. Co-chairs included the School's Division of BC Children's Hospital Foundation. Bob was an athlete and this was a huge part of who he was. He played rugby at UBC and as a teacher went on to coach New Zealand Shield and provincial champions at Sir Charles Tupper and David Thompson. Then came basketball. Coaching numerous years and implementing a "mini basketball" program in Richmond. He was the president of BC High School Boys Basketball Association, receiving many awards for his contributions to the sport. In 2009 he was honored with an honorary Life Membership in BCHSBBA. As a high school principal he was unique. He had a vision and developed many innovative practices. Examples of these included Student Leadership Conferences, first ever Salmon Hatchery at Steveston High School, BC's first Pacific Rim course at Steveston, coordinating exchange programs with Japan and China, linkages with Casa Guatemala orphanage and the Lai Thieu Centre for the deaf in Vietnam and a Global Education Course at Richmond High. He implemented the first Advanced Placement Program in BC at Steveston and developed Space and Technology Education. Awards were numerous but most notably were the Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Simon Fraser University for excellence in Educational Administration, UBC Alumni Association Award of Distinction for Global Education and finally the Order of Canada in recognition of educational initiatives and encouragement of humanitarianism in the schools. Above all of Bob's accomplishments, his most cherished one was his family. Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Bob was married to the love of his life, Nanette, having just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary together. He was adored by his three sons and three daughters-in-law, Mike (Cindy), Randy (Melanie), Tim (Josephine) and his seven beautiful grandchildren, Stephanie, Samantha, Natalie, Taylor, Emily, Kate and Sarah. He was a huge influence and part of all our lives. Also surviving is his sister Carol Storch (Eric), nephew and niece, Ryan and Tegan. Dad's favorite place on earth was his cabin on Bowen Island where he and his family spent many wonderful summers and he was the happiest. A celebration of his life will be fittingly held at Steveston-London High School, 6600 Williams Road, Richmond, on August 18, 2009 in the gymnasium at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society.
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74 Entries
Hans Ng
March 3, 2020
I was shocked and saddened by the passing of Mr. Bob Carkner. My condolences and prayers to the family and to those who are close to him. I too had was very fortunate and very honoured to have had Mr. Carkner as my principal throughout my high school experience (1980 to 85). I remembered him as a very kind, warm person who was dedicated to his work at Charles E London and Steveston High. His presence will be sadly missed. May you rest in peace Mr. Carkner.
Carolynne Vernon(nee Cryer)
September 10, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Chrystal Goodman
August 19, 2009
Thank you very much Carkner Family for allowing me the honour of attending the Celebration of Life for Mr. Carkner on Tuesday, August 18, 2009.
I was one of many who was very touched by the evening's speakers.
He was my principal at Steveston Secondary from 1985-1987, and I am blessed to have known him.
My heart is with you all at this time, and as I am sure you all know, he will never be forgotten, and was well loved by all who had the pleasure of meeting him.
Chrystal-Leigh Swindell Goodman
Chris Mann
August 19, 2009
Bob Carkner. Colleague, mentor, lunch buddy, supporter, visionary, fellow administrator & global steward, listener, schemer, quote-finding partner, doer, teacher, believer, dreamer, encourager, collaborator, FRIEND.
To continue Bob's legacy is to begin to see the BIG PICTURE, like he did. He was so interested in Space Technology because he thought that if we could only get out into space and look back at our beautiful planet - our one home - we would all work harder to save her, nurture her, and share the earth's bounty with all. We would put down our weapons at last. If we could just see that we are ONE, we would live as ONE.
Live LARGE. That was our Bob. LOVE large, but take small steps, one at a time. Don't climb the whole mountain in one day. Take a tiny step forward on the path to help others. Bob lived his whole life in order to leave the world a better place, and he succeeded beyond all expectations. One small act of kindness is still a victory for Bob. Generations of endless acts of kindness, of individual choices of compassion from the thousands who were touched by Bob - now THAT is a legacy.
With deepest sympathy to Nan and family, as you live through this time of great loss. As you all did, I loved him beyond measure.
I am sending healing wishes for each member of the family he loved so dearly.
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Sherry,Travis,Connor Ellis(Bergunder)
August 18, 2009
Mike..Nan and Family
Sorry for your loss, he will be missed by everyone...My eyes filled with tears when Marie told me, He and Gord were the BEST GRAMDPA'S around, Boy were they proud. Words just don't even begin to say how we all feel...Mr C was the man that influenced everyone..no one slipped through...
I'm sure when we think of your Dad it brings a smile to us all.
Take comfort in all the great memories he shared with you..Hugs to you all.
TONY GILLIS
August 17, 2009
NANETTE;
CUPS OF COFFEE ON THE BACK PORCH,HAND WRINGING AND THAT DISARMING SMILE.THANKS FOR SHARING HIM WITH US.LOVED BY ONE ,LOVED BY MANY
TONY GILLIS TUPPER 'CLASS '65
Rosella Buchannon
August 17, 2009
Nan Carkner and Family
We offer our deepest sympathy, we feel truly blessed having met Bob, he always had many kind words and wonderful stories. He will truly be missed. Our thoughts are with you in the coming days and may you find strength in the wonderful memories you've created.
The Buchannon Family
Nancy Dodd Henderson
August 16, 2009
To the Carkner Family,
I always knew, that as students, we were incredibly privileged to have had Mr. Carkner as our principal and mentor. He lead us by example and supported us in our goals. Twenty years later, I feel honoured to have known a man that continued to influence multiple generations through his humanitarian efforts.
Thank you for sharing him with so many of us.
Nancy Dodd Henderson (Steveston '87)
Cathy Stanton
August 16, 2009
Dear Nan & Family,
I am so very sorry & saddened by Bob's passing and the loss for all of you! He was a remarkable man in so many ways-special:sweet, smart,sensitive,supportive,... and sharing of all his amazing qualities! Few are ever so blessed and such blessings to others, but he's a gem.
To have known him and had him share in our lives makes the/our world a better place! So it is with a sad heart but much gratitude to him for his kindness,caring,compassion and to all of you for sharing him, that I send sincerest sympathy! Many thoughts and prayers are with you always, but particularly now during this difficult time! Bless You All!
Sherry Audette
August 16, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. C's passing. What a wonderful man he was. I had the good fortune of having him as my principal for all my high school years, first at London and then Steveston. I spent a lot of time in his office and we had many "talks". He always told me he "believed" in me. He always seemed to know what to say to keep me on the right track. I have thought of him often over the years and always with a smile on my face. He has had a great impact on my life - he will be dearly missed by many.
Sherry Keller Audette (Class of '85 & 86)
August 15, 2009
Ann-Louise McDonagh (nee Meyer)
August 14, 2009
Dear Carkner Family,
It is amazing the impact a single person can have on another generation.
Mr. C. was the epitome of a gentleman educator. He was kind, compassionate yet firm when necessary. We were truly fortunate to have him move along to Steveston from London as our principal. I remember how proud Tim was having his dad as principal. That says a lot.
I remember having him come out to jump-start my car one day in the pouring rain at Steveston and giving me the umbrella to stay dry while he got soaked.
Thoughts to the Carkner clan in this sad time.
Dwain Weese
August 14, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Grace Chan
August 13, 2009
Dear Carkner Family,
I was saddened by the news of Mr. Carkner's passing. He was a great man that influenced so many of us during our high school years and beyond. Just wish we could have expressed our thanks to him while he was still with us.
May God comfort you and give you strength. You will be in my prayers.
London'83 & Steveston'85
Bruce Watson
August 12, 2009
Mrs Carkner and Family,
My sincerest condolences to all of you at this time. Thru my entire Secondary School career i had Mr C as a principal and for that i consider myself very fortunate. He was kind of spirit,always supportive and a steadying influence for so many young people over the years. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by the entire Steveston HS alumni.
Randel Soares (Martell)
August 12, 2009
Although I was never directly a student of Mr. Carkner's we shared many special memories of the Casa Guatemala Orphanage and the friendships we made there and through Guillermo. This country and it's children has made me who I am today, and it would never have happened if it weren't for Mr. Carkner. May you forever be in our hearts.
August 12, 2009
What an amazing man!! My thoughts and prayers go out to the whole family.
Cheryl Hyde (nee Jarvie)
Grad '85
Donalee Patterson
August 12, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner and Family,
I remember meeting Mr. Carkner when I transferred to London Jr. High in 83. He was always supportive and very nice. He made me feel welcome to the school and helped make my transition enjoyable.
I can't recall why but we split a $5.00 bill in half and he kept one and I have one. Not sure what happened to his but I still have mine.
I am sorry for your loss.
Class of 87
Donalee Patterson (Lennox)
Keri Miller
August 11, 2009
Carkner Family
I was so heartsick to hear of the passing of Mr. Carkner. What a loving, kind and compassionate man. I am so sorry for your loss and hope that your loving memories of such an amazing man will bring you comfort during this time.
Keri Miller (Thom) Steveston Class of '88
Anne Schaff
August 11, 2009
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Mr. Carkner made every student he spoke with feel special. One memory that will forever stay with me is when he made me re-shake hands with him. The first one was so wimpy he said, "What was that?" and taught me that "a simple handshake can say much about a person. Make your first impression count!" It's a little memory, and one small thing in a life full of major contributions, but it is a life lesson that I've passed along to my own children. My prayers to you and your family.
Anne Schaff (Otremba) Steveston 1985
Kathleen Leachman
August 11, 2009
Mike and family, Having read through all the posts I am smiling with many of the same memories: basketball, incredible reference letters, enthusiasm, kindness; truly we were blessed to know Mr. Carkner.
My condolences to you for your loss but as you can see, your husband and father touched the lives of so many. He will be sadly missed.
London and Steveston, Grad. '84
Elaine McRae (nee Leachman)...Class of '87
August 11, 2009
My deepest condolences to the Carkner family.
Mr. Carkner was such an incredible human being who has left a legacy of kindness, inspiration, and compassion amongst many generations of people. He has touched so many lives in such extraordinary ways. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have made it through those “awkward high school years” with Mr. Carkner. I have spoken of him often over the past 20 years to friends and colleagues who did not have the good fortune of being in his presence.
I truly hope that my own children may encounter someone in their lives as wonderful as Mr. Carkner.
Carl and Cheryl Neibel (nee Van Gyzen)
August 11, 2009
Dear Tim and Family
We are sorry for the loss of your dad. He was by far the best Principal and teacher I ever had. He helped me and countless others and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Class of 85 and 86
Pascale Neal (Evans)
August 11, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner and family,
I remember the school assemblies, and when we sponsored a little boy in Guatamala. He was so proud to introduce this to all of us and show us another side to this world, and I soaked it up like a sponge. I was so proud to be part of his school, and so honored to have him as our principal.
He was a true visionary, helped so many people.
I am very sorry for your loss.
Class of '85
Pam (Favel)Matthews
August 11, 2009
Always Remember Mr. Carkner. Will Miss Dearly too. He was Packer Principal to everyone here. Class of 1988 here
Gael Gower
August 10, 2009
What an amazing man! Mr. C had such a wonderful philosophy that students under his guidance should have a well rounded education. He supported and encouraged students to excel in all avenues of interests and education. He was involved and cared. As a student at Steveston, Mr. C went out of his way for me and my family and we still talk about his thoughtfulness and kindness to this day.
My sympathies go out to his family - take strength from the memories and the many legacies he has left behind.
Lynn Sakai-Boden..Class of '86
August 10, 2009
My heart goes out to your whole family. What a kind and wonderful man! Words can't even express how much he will continue to be missed by a community he had such a positive influence on. I hope to see you on the 18th.
Barry Wosk
August 10, 2009
To the Carkners:
My life changed in September 1982 when I met Bob Carkner. As an impressionable twelve-year-old, he was larger than life. There was a mischievous sparkle in his eye as he went about his daily work, as if it were all part of a bigger plan. And as time rolled on, I quickly learned it was. Bob taught us to think globally, yet that any effort made a difference.
The man was so far ahead of the proverbial curve you couldn’t even guess where he was going next. The word visionary may be too mild. Yet no matter where you stood in the academic, social, or sports order, Bob had the unique gift of connecting with everyone and of making you feel “in the moment” any time you talked with him. Enthusiasm for life’s challenges spilled from every pore, like he was ready to explode with excitement!
I have very fond memories of skipping class (under the auspices of important Student Council business!) to sit in his office and chat. His door was always open and I learned more about life in those frequent encounters than I ever got in class. To this day, I count him as one of a very few people who affected who I became as a human being. The world is definitely poorer with his loss but we are all much richer for knowing him.
Sitting with my young daughter, I realized Bob’s legacy: thousands of families who continue his teachings. You should be immensely proud.
I look forward to celebrating his life on the 18th.
Barry Wosk (Steveston ’87)
Chantal Taylor
August 10, 2009
I remember Mr Carkner when I was at my junior school and then when I moved to Steveston he followed us until we graduated from grade 12. He was a leader and father figure to all the kids. I look back fondly at my high school days, because he made a difference in our everyday activities. My sincerest sympathies go out to his family.
Chantal Taylor (Lavallee) Steveston Class 1985
Todd McMahon
August 10, 2009
With greatest sympathy to the Carkner family. Mr Carkner touched so many lives in a positive way. From mini basketball coach to high school Principle, he was a great influence to myself and my brothers. He will be dearly missed.
The McMahon Family
Grace Chan
August 10, 2009
Dear Carkner Family,
So sad to hear of Mr. Carkner's passing. He was a wonderful caring man and I'm thankful that he was my principal in both London & Steveston High. He was truly an inspiration to many and he will be greatly missed. May God comfort you and give you strength. You will all be in my prayers.
Debbie Groat
August 10, 2009
Mrs.Carkner, Tim and entire family,
My heart goes out to you during this time of grief. God bless.
I was like so many others, blessed to have had the influence of this wonderful man. He had such a positive energy that has carried with me always.
He always had so much to give and share for everyone - what a amazing role model - thank you Mr.Carkner.
It was an honour to last see him at the 50th Steveston anniversary and a great honour to have known him.
I will miss him.
Debbie Groat, Class of 1985, Steveston
August 10, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to the Carkner family. It was a privilege to have known and learned from Mr Carkner. He was my principal throughout my junior high years at London, and the principal at Steveston for my grade 12 year. What a generous, kind hearted, positive spirit. My life is richer for having known him.
Angie Wong (Chow), Steveston Class of 84
Peter Harteveld
August 10, 2009
Mr. Carkner was a very special man and someone we always looked forward to seeing during basketball season.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mrs. Carkner and the entire family.
August 10, 2009
Mr Carkner will be dearly missed. He was a father figure to all of us who had the fortune of meeting him. We sure loved our Steveston principal who was almost transfered him to revial Richmond High. Those of us from that time, decided that was not going to happen and made a trip to the Richmond School Board to voice our displeasure of this order. After a few meetings and almost the whole school on a virtual walk out, they decided to let us keep our beloved principal until the end of our grade 12 year. To this day, I cheerish the day I was able to shake Principal Carkner's hand while I recieved my 12 diplomia. Thank you Mr Carkner for all the great memories and you true love for your students.
Dave Nicholas (Packers 1990)
Georgia G.
August 10, 2009
To the family of Mr. Carkner,
I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Carkner. I was fortunate enough to have been a student at Steveston during his time there. They tried to transfer him to Richmond High during my senior year and we were so outraged and upset that we put up a big enough protest to alter the school board's decision. That is the kind of man and principal he was - the kind you would fight for.
He touched so many lives and I was just one of many who have so many fond memories of his gentle nature and kind smile. He made every student feel that he really knew them. He truly was a gift. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. His memory will always live on in the hearts and minds of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
- Georgia G. (nee Karkoglou) Class of '90
August 10, 2009
To the Carkner family,
I am saddened to hear this news. Mr Carkner made a profound influence on many, including myself. I am a better man for having known him.
Greg Sambrook (Steveston 85)
Angie Groth
August 10, 2009
I always remember Mr. Carkner as a kind and gentle man, who was also a great listener and really cared about his students. It was an honour to have him as my high school principal. My prayers and thoughts will be with your family at this time.
~ Angie Groth, nee Lorenz
Steveston class of '87
Paul Low
August 10, 2009
With greatest sympathy to the Carkner family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Carkner, he was a superb Principal and had a profound effect upon the students he oversaw.
God Bless..Paul Low Steveston High grad '84
Sandra Kidd
August 10, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner and family,
I send you my deepest sympathy at this sad news. "Mr. Cartner" was the principal at London and Steveston schools when my two children, Tracey and Don, were there. He was one in a million and helped in so many ways. His kindness, his compassion, he always had time to chat and he always knew who you were. We were so lucky to have known him - a great man who will always be remembered.
Sandra Kidd - Aldergrove, B.C. - a grateful Mum!
Leanna Kada-McKellar (Class of 85)
August 10, 2009
To the Carkner Family,
I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Carkner. He was such a beautiful person! We are all so lucky to have had him touch our lives.
Diane Friedman
August 10, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner & Family,
My sincere condolences on the loss of such a wonderful person. Mr.C was my principal at both London and Steveston (class of '85). He was so kind, generous with his time, and committed to his school and students. His influence will live on, in the thousands of lives (and subsequent generations) he so positively touched. May his memory be for a blessing.
Anna-Marie Carpenter '85
August 10, 2009
Mrs. Carkner and Family,
A honor to have Mr. C as my principal, a true blessing. A class act that has touch the many and inspired us all with his humbling ways. Thanks for everything Mr. C. You will not be forgotten.
Dawn Brooke (nee Simpson)
August 10, 2009
Dear Carkner Family,
It was with great sadness, that I heard of the passing of Mr C. His warm smile and kind manner in the halls of Steveston High, made my time there more memorable. He made it easy to have Packer Pride and feel as if you were apart of something much bigger than yourself.
He was a gifted educator, and left his mark here on earth.
Our prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time.
Ian and Vicki MacDonald
August 10, 2009
Dear Nan and family,
We are saddened to hear of Bob's passing and send you our deepest sympathy. Surely he is in Heaven now; he was such a fine guy.
Our love and prayers,
Lisa Munro (nee Roy), class of '85
August 10, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner, Tim and family,
As a Steveston grad, classmate of Tim's, and growing up around the corner, I am so sorry to hear this sad news.
Mr. C was so much more of a blessing in my life that I ever realized at the time.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Marie Gerroir (Ellis)
August 10, 2009
To the Carkner Family,
Take comfort in knowing Bobs love is all around you, how could it not be? His love and compassion for all things good touched the lives of so many people. We are all truly blessed to have spent our time with such an incredible man!
Warmest thoughts and hugs to you all.
Carla Danielsen (nee Bennett)
August 10, 2009
Mrs. Carkner and Family,
So very sorry to hear of Mr. C's passing. He was such an inspiration to me. Always made me want to do better and be better. Our Student Council had a "sit in" at City Hall - we didn't want Mr. C moved during our graduation year at Steveston! He was so supportive of this. Mr. C was always such a gentleman. I will never forget him .
Luan Aldcorn Attridge
August 10, 2009
I was one of the lucky students that had Mr. Carkner through London and Steveston High. To this day, every time I hear his name I smile. I will remember above all his kindness and compassion for all of his students.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family he will be greatly missed.
Tim Rinn
August 10, 2009
So sorry to hear of the passing of Bob Carkner. He was my principal at Hugh Boyd and Steveston High and was a positive influence on me during those years. I was glad to have known him.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Preston Family
August 10, 2009
Our condolences to the Carkner Family, from the Preston Family.
Not only were we neighbours on Fairway Rd. for many years, but friends as well.
You will be greatly missed by all who knew you.
The Preston Family
Liz C
August 9, 2009
Mr C seemed to always be there during my school years, guarding the outside gym doors, that 'try it' smile on his face. Always acknowledging the students in the halls.
So sorry for your loss, he will be missed.
April White
August 9, 2009
To the Carkner Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. C's passing - my condolences go out to you all at this difficult time.
I have many wonderful memories of "Sir" and our time together at both London and Steveton but I will always remember having had the honor of singing "To Sir With Love" to him. He was an amazing man and will be truly missed.
Sincerely,
April White
Paul & Jan Hacker
August 9, 2009
To the Beloved Carkner Family,
How deeply saddened we were to hear of Bob's recent passing. Less than 10 years ago I visited with him in his home. We enjoyed a great time of conversation on mutual interests like teaching, sports, reaching out to other parts of the globe and our love for humanity.
Heaven surely blessed earth in and through Bob's life and accomplishments. He shared his life and gifts in such a kind, respectful, caring, skillful and loving manner.
He sought to serve his generation well, and thus impacted many people in many different areas of life. His legacy will live on in the lives of all who knew him. Both our son Jérémie and eldest daughter Julie are two of these people, who attended Steveston High when Bob was principal. They will not forget him.
We pause to give thanks to the Eternal One in whose image Robert Thomas Carkner and all of us have been created to bless our generations.
Grace, Peace & Love,
Sincerely,
Pr R Paul and Mme Janine M-R Bertrand-Häcker
Shauna Baccus(Tanner)
August 9, 2009
My condolences to the Carkner family, he was an amazing individual who touched so many lives. I always remember his warm smile and friendly hello in the hallways at school. He will be greatly missed...
Angela Shoemaker
August 9, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner and family,
I was very very lucky to have known Mr. C as my high school principal. He made his mark on my life and the lives of the entire student body. I will always remember his smiling face and his uncanny knack for remembering students names and faces.
I have many fond memories of laughter and fun whenever Mr.C was around it was difficult to fight off the tears when I read the obit. Mr. C I will never forget you...you were a true angel on earth...
Angela Shoemaker
Class of 1988
Stephanie Storkey
August 9, 2009
Such a nice, nice man. We'd be a lucky world to have more people even half as kind and interested in other people as he was.
Deepest Sympathies,
Stephanie Storkey (nee Flowers)
Maureen Lee
August 9, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Carkner family. Bob's inspiration will continue to be felt - he was a man with true vision and leadership. I have been incredibly fortunate to have known and worked with such a caring and thoughtful man who has touched the heart of many.
Carol Lodge
August 9, 2009
Mike & family
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your father. I know he was an inspiration to you and that he succeeded in raising an excellent son, student and athlete. His legacy is reflected in the positive effect he had on so many lives.My thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.
August 9, 2009
Bob - gone far too soon - but not before you left all of us with wonderful memories of our many good times together!
You and the legacy you hve left will never be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Jan and Darrel
Nancy Whiting (nee Cherry)
August 9, 2009
To the Carkner Family,
Mr Carkner was a huge influence on my life while I atteneded Steveston High. He got me my first job and started my career in the medical profession - an after school secretary job for Dr. Emory. His compassion and interest in the lives of his students was far greater than any other educator I've known. He will be remembered by me and by the thousands of other Steveston grads as a great man and an incredibly positive influence in our lives. You have my deepest condolances.
Ken Garfinkel
August 9, 2009
The passing of Bob Carkner leaves us all a poorer human race. He was an inspiration and a guide to all who would embrace humanity. It is with sadness and loss that I offer Bob's family and friends condolences.
Will Blackaby
August 9, 2009
I had the priviledge of graduatiing with Bob with a B.PE degree. We remained friends over the years. Bob always had a ready smile, laugh, and a kind word. His life positively influenced all those he came in contact with, from students to collegues. Bob always talked about how proud he was of his family. He impacted us all and he will be missed but what wonderful memories we all have him. My sincere sympathy for his family as they suffer his passing.
Kristin Michael nee Murfitt
August 8, 2009
To the Carkner Family,
He was truly an incredible man taken far too soon. He will never know the influence he had on so many young lives. My two years at Steveston were spent on numerous committees and sports teams which allowed me the pleasure of interacting daily with Mr.C. His vision was extraordinary and evidenced through the Orphanage, Salmon Hatchery and China exchange, all of which I experienced. Just the other day I found a letter of reference from this great man which instantly put a smile on my face. His passion and enthusiasm were extraordinary and it is wonderful to hear that he will live on in the lives of so many children and grandchildren.
Jennifer Nerpio
August 8, 2009
Mrs. Carkner and Family,
My husband and I are so sorry to hear of Mr Carkner's passing. We both had the pleasure of having him as our principal at Steveston High School. He was an amazing man and helped greatly in shaping our lives. He was inspirational to all of us and we are proud to have been part of his legacy. He will be greatly missed.
Our condolences.
Jennifer Barter Nerpio "90 and Dennis Nerpio "87
Mara Lazer
August 8, 2009
Mrs Carkner and Family,
My thoughts and paryers go out to you. Mr Carkner was suck a great man! My family and I still talk about him 20 years later. He will be greatly missed and in my heart forever.
God Bless!!!
Mara J Lazer - Las Vegas Nevada (Steveston Grad 89')
Chrystal Goodman
August 8, 2009
Mrs. Carkner & Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of Mr. Carkner. I was lucky to have him as principal at 2 of my schools, Hugh Boyd and Steveston. He was a very kind and gentle man. He will be missed. My sincerest condolences to you all.
Chrystal-Leigh Swindell Goodman
Bobbi Peltonen
August 8, 2009
Mrs Carkner and family,
I am very sorry to hear of Mr. Carkners passing, he was a wonderful man with a great spirit. He will be greatly missed by me and all of my fellow classmates at both London Jr Sec. and Steveston High.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very sad time.
Bobbi Peltonen nee Welsh
ABBY SONES
August 8, 2009
Dear Nan, We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Bob,
I had 3 boys go through his schools as Principle and worked at hugh boyd on the parents advisory committee many years ago I have never met a more pleasant man in my life and always open to help and listen.
my deepest sypathies go to you and your family.
Abby & Anne Sones
Pamela Dixon
August 8, 2009
Dear Mrs. Carkner, and the whole Carkner family,
I was extremely fortunate to have Mr. C as my Principal at London and at Steveston, his positivity was a huge inspiration in my life. He was the epitome of packer pride and what one can accomplish when they dare to dream.
He was an amazing man and will be greatly missed.
I hope that the memories of all the wonderful times, (and that infectious smile), will give you comfort during this difficult time.
- Pamela, Steveston Class of '87
Gord/Sue Wallis
August 8, 2009
Nan and family.
Bob was larger than life itself. Our family has the utmost respect for all he accomplished. He will be greatly missed by all he touched.
Glen Tait
August 8, 2009
As a child I couldn't wait to get to Mini Basketball on a Friday Night. Mr. Carkner ran a fantastic program that was one of the best parts of my childhood. I'll always remember him as such a positive and happy person, with a heart of gold. My condolences to the Carkner family during this difficult time.
Cindy Cuccione
August 8, 2009
What an amazing life he lead...We are sorry to hear about your sad news. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Cindy and Family
Frank Parrotta
August 8, 2009
Dear Nan ( Mrs Carkner) and family
I am so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. My sympathies are with you. However I am gratefull in Bob being an important part of my life as my Teacher, coach, and Educational Leader. He showed me how to be the best I could be. First as my teacher, and Rugby Coach at David Thompson, finally as member of the Staff at Steveston Secondary, he was the person I looked up to and admired as an excetional Educator. So from one of his original students and member of the David Thompson Rugby Squad, God Bless you Mr. Carkner, and to you Mrs Carkner and the kids my love and appreciation for supporting this great man.
Frank Parrotta and family
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