Photo: Obituary photo

Ron Rubadeau

A former superintendent and longtime supporter of Central Okanagan Public Schools has passed away.

On Monday afternoon, the Central Okanagan School District announced the death of Dr. Ron Rubadeau.

He passed away on August 3 at the age of 73.

Rubadeau worked as a teacher, assistant coordinator of special education, director of student support services, and as the superintendent of schools in the Central Okanagan over the span of 29 years.

He served as the superintendent of schools from 1996 to 2006.

A Castanet obituary shared that Rubadeau was much more than just an educator.

"He built programs that inspired school assessment programs and student achievement programs learn-to-sail and adaptive sailing programs for the Central Okanagan Sailing Association. He built a dynasty of sailors. He built up networks: of friends and colleagues; of mentees, teachers, and administrators; of coaches and race directors; of musicians," the obit said.

Rubadeau also chaired the Kelowna Summer Games and led over 22,000 students and staff to a Guinness World Record in simultaneous tree planting.

To honour Rubadeau's memory, a donation to the Okanagan Humane Society or another charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

"At Ron’s request, there will be no public service. Instead, pour yourself a cold one and think of him," concludes his obituary.