KOMISHKE - Ron Komishke a longtime resident of Stettler, passed away suddenly on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008 at the Stettler Health Care Centre, at the age of 69 years, after an extensive battle with cancer. Ron was the first child of Albert and Ruth Komishke, born on the farm just outside of Donalda, AB. on Aug. 20, 1938. Ron grew up on the family farm with his sister, Marlene, and brothers, Dale and Wayne. That’s where he learned his work ethic and sense of humour. Following his graduation from high school Ron worked in the oilfield for a short time before meeting his future wife Kathleen (Kathy) Lane. They were married on July 15, 1960. Ron went to the University of Alberta and received a Bachelor’s of Education degree and started his teaching career at Stettler Waverly School then he moved to the Stettler Elementary School, as the vice-principal. In the summers of ’69 and ’70, Ron attended the University of Oregon in Eugene to attain his Master’s Degree in Education. In 1976 Ron, Kathy and children (Brad and Audra) moved to Lahr, Germany for three years, to teach at the Canadian Armed Forces base. Ron and family travelled extensively through Europe and gained lifelong friends, an appreciation for fine wine and world travel. In 1979, Ron and family returned to Stettler to continue teaching at the Elementary School. In 1989, Ron and Kathy moved to White Sands on Buffalo Lake where Ron became the mayor of the fastest growing metropolis in Canada. Retiring in 1995, Ron had influenced the lives of more than 1,000 students, over three generations, after a 33 year teaching career. Ron and Kathy soon became snowbirds flocking south to Sun Lakes, Arizona every winter. There he took up golf and bocce excelling at both sports. He hiked extensively exploring his love of nature and they continued their passion for world travel including trips to China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, several cruises including Alaska and returning to Europe numerous times. Ron’s easygoing nature, good sense of humour and lust for life made him a very popular individual. He worked hard, played hard and always made time for family and friends, even if it involved moving their furniture. Ron fought fearlessly, never giving in even though the outcome was inevitable and he continued to enjoy life, friends and family to the very end. He touched the hearts of countless people and his passing will leave a void in many lives, not easily filled. Ron is survived by his loving wife Kathy of 48 years; son Brad (Caroline) of Calgary, AB; daughter Audra (Mel) of Grande Prairie, AB; grandchildren Danielle, Taylor, Bailey, Zane, Albert (A.J.) and Casey; sister Marlene (Ken) Murray of Kelowna, B.C.; brothers Dale (Dianne) of Rochon Sands, AB and Wayne (Holly) of Donalda; numerous nieces, nephews, other family and a host of friends. A celebration of Ron’s life was held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008 in the Heartland Chapel of the Stettler Funeral Home, with the Rev. David Denholm of the Stettler United Church officiating. Tributes were given by Malcolm Fischer, Joe Baltimore, Don Tash; as well a DVD tribute was presented by Taylor and the other grandchildren. Friends and family gathered in the Heartland Fellowship Hall for a time of sharing and a light lunch was provided by Brenda’s Country Catering. Memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Research Dept. in care of the Stettler Funeral Home, Box 1780, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0. Condolences may be sent to the family by signing the guestbook at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com and will be forwarded to the family.