It was with an extremely heavy heart that I learned today of the death of my friend, Dr. John Tobias, on December 23rd. When I went back to school at 36, 20 years away from learning and only a grade 10 education, John was my first professor on my first day. There were many challenges I faced as a mum returning to school and John was there every step of the way, supporting me, challenging me to do better, giving me pep talks...regularly! Sometimes it was just a coffee when I needed it. John acted as one of my referees when I applied to law school and constantly supported me in my endeavours.
Whenever I was back in Red Deer I would stop to visit John and his wife Bea, if only for a couple of hours. When I was in London, Ontario last year I came across a book with one of his papers in it and phoned him at home from the bookstore because seeing his name in print I suddenly needed to hear his voice. I learned so much from John. Some of it was in the classroom, much of it was not. I will truly miss you John. Rest in peace, you've earned it.
Whenever I was back in Red Deer I would stop to visit John and his wife Bea, if only for a couple of hours. When I was in London, Ontario last year I came across a book with one of his papers in it and phoned him at home from the bookstore because seeing his name in print I suddenly needed to hear his voice. I learned so much from John. Some of it was in the classroom, much of it was not. I will truly miss you John. Rest in peace, you've earned it.
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