I am honoured to speak today on behalf of Birchmount Park students and staff. Harry Murk was one of those rare educators who touched the lives of all he worked with. He inspired his students to stretch their minds beyond the walls of the classroom and the school, beyond walls of their homes, and beyond the walls of the fear of the unknown. He brought to his classes the world – the world he traveled, the world he experienced, the world that needed healing and the world that invoked joy. His students described a teacher who could barely contain himself from jumping in excitement when sharing his knowledge about a particular country or part of the world. His enthusiasm as a Geographer was contagious and so many of our young people have followed in his footsteps in college, in university and or in their lives.
Harry’s influence on students did not reside solely in the classroom. In the library he developed a student following – many meeting him there when it opened up – to chat in the quiet moments before school started about books he had recommended, about assignments, about life. Students on his Reach for the Top team, his co-coach and opponent schools marveled at his vast knowledge about so many subjects, but in particular his knowledge of the world we live in.
A born performer, Harry was never far from the spotlight activities at the school. He donned his mirrored and sequined vest on stage in the musical “Grease” alongside the students he directed and belted out song. He was a fixture at our Fashion Show, as both advisor and in the prestigious role of judge. Out he was again on stage, during our Teacher Idol competition – singing from the heart and to the delight of his students, who chanted “Mr. Murk, Mr. Murk” from the audience. He delighted in these roles, and would have it no other way than to jump in with both feet and give his all – to serve as a model for others to take risks, to be involved, and to make a difference.
Teaching can be a challenge. For Harry it was a calling. His gentle manner, genuine caring, and excitement for life earned him the respect and admiration of a difficult to tap into and discerning audience – today’s youth.
Harry had a gift of making everyone who knew him feel special and for so many at Birchmount Park, and for students and staff alike Mr. Murk was their favourite. He did not sweat the small stuff, and focused on the things that mattered – his friendships and relationships with colleagues, his job as teacher and role model to students, and his advocacy for making our school better through equity awareness. To say we will miss Harry does not adequately convey our sense of loss and the impact he has had on our Birchmount Park family.
To Tony, Daisy, family and friends, it was an honour for us to know and work with your Harry. Mr. Murk was a passionate man who walked the talk – as evidenced by his life-long accomplishments. He was modest in those accomplishments, and humbled by the many things he had yet to experience and learn.
May he rest in peace. Rahu tema põrmule.
From: http://schools.tdsb.on.ca/birchmount
In Memory of Teacher Harry Murk
Mr. Murk was a passionate man who walked the talk – as evidenced by his life-long accomplishments. He was modest in those accomplishments, and humbled by the many things he had yet to experience and learn.Mr. Murk touched so many aspects of life at Birchmount Park Collegiate. He was involved in the school musical Grease both as a member of the organization committee, but also as a performer. He resurrected his role from Grease at our bi-annual “Teacher Idol” competition. An avid supporter of the Arts, Mr. Murk was a key individual and judge in the annual Fashion Show. He worked tirelessly with students to showcase student designs. Academically, Mr. Murk put his vast array of qualifications to work as coach of the “Reach” team – the first-ever team at Birchmount Park. He also was coordinatorof “White Pine Readers” – a book club for students.
Former students and alumni are welcome to sign a book of memories at the school which can be found in the main office for the next two of weeks.
Students, alumni, former colleagues and staff are welcome at the funeral visitation on Saturday, February 28, 2009 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Murray Newbigging Funeral Home (733 Mt. Pleasant Road).
We will miss you dearly Mr. Murk. Rest in Peace.
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