StettlerLocal.com October 6, 2021 @ 11:45am
Where are you from? Where did you grow up?
Edmonton and Spruce Grove, Alberta
Why do you (did you) choose Stettler as home?
A band teacher position opened up starting February, 1993 and I was lucky enough to get an interview and then the job. After a couple of years I got married and started a family and Stettler became home. I had to leave Edmonton to meet someone from Edmonton, crazy world we live in.
What do you do? What is your full title?
I teach at Stettler Elementary, WMEHSSC, and also at the Stettler Outreach School. Grades 5 to 12 band, English 10, and Junior High at the Outreach
Family?
I am married to Sharon, who is a wonderful and patient woman, and have two children, Rebecca and Ethan. They are 22 and 19 respectively.
Education?
I went to the University of Alberta and have my Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education, with a Major in Music. Life and young people have taught me a great deal with still so much to learn. I did spend many years in the restaurant business and learned a great deal about working with all kinds of people.
Who inspired you in your youth? There were some teachers that made impressions on me, but one of the big influences when I was younger was Professor Munn at U.of A. She was my Piano Prof. and she helped steer me towards the career I have today. There have been many colleagues here in Stettler that have inspired me with their passion and true caring they showed for their students. I won't mention any names because I am sure I will miss someone and then trouble would ensue.
Who inspires you now?
My wife and children! Our family has had to face some pretty challenging times this past couple of years with Sharon's health, but she has continued to be strong and push forward. Her courage always inspires me. She is also a great role model when it comes to the phrase "never stop learning". She is mentoring others in their journey as well. I am inspired by my own kids because they have had to be strong and deal with stresses throughout these last two years as well. Rebecca finished her teaching Degree at U.of A. and is now teaching in a small school just outside of Edson. Ethan is in his second year of university at U.of A. working on a double Degree, Bachelor of Music and Secondary Education. It would be difficult to be around these three and not be motivated.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to go camping, do some hikes or bike trips. I have also been trying to do more fly fishing when out and about. I really do like to spend time on the deck reading as well. I also enjoy playing piano with the Jazz Guys.
What are your plans for the future?
Sharon and I would love to travel some more, perhaps see Spain or even Vietnam. It would be great to do some road trips again as well. We both have to work a bit more and then we will see what the future holds.
Anything else you would like to add about being a resident of Stettler?
Stettler has always been a supportive community in terms of the Arts and it has been a nice place to raise our family. I am always grateful that I sent in my resume for the band teaching position way back in '93!
Thank you to Eric Rahn for participating in our Local Spotlights.