OAKLEY THOMAS SOUTHERN

Condolences & Memories (10 entries)

• I was a bit of a wild child in junior high. I got kicked out sewing and cooking! I ended up taking an “agricultural” class with Mr.Southern. It was the best class and he was the best teacher. I will always remember his calm, kind way of interacting with me. He was truly interested in me as a human being - I wasn’t invisible or a problem child to him. RIP Mr Southern. You made positive difference in my life ☮️❤️ - Posted by: Cheryl (Guttormson) Collins (Former student) on: May 09, 2020

• Dawn, we were so sorry to hear about Oakley. We had such a wonderful visit with all of you. How blessed we were to have had that time together. He was such an amazing person. So sorry we lost touch. Please contact us. We would love to see you again. - Posted by: Richard & Peggy Gwillam (cousins) on: Jul 31, 2012

• I had the fortune of having "Mr. Southern" as my principle for my 1st year of school (Kindergarten 1980) at Ruth Hooker School. Because of him my first camping experience ever was filled with fun. Albert Beach Camp, I can still remember Mr. Southern leading us through the Johnny Appleseed song which we would do before every meal, and the campfire stories (Ogopogo included). I saw Mr. Southern's tribute in the Selkirk Journal and was immediately sad at his passing but more nostalgic at the memories he left me at the beginning of my career as a student. My thoughts and prayers go to his family, at this time of the loss of such a special man. Take Care Bev - Posted by: Bev 'Waytiuk (former student) on: May 16, 2012

• I am so5rry to hear of your loss. Just wanted to share some memories as Oakley (or The Big Oak as we used to call him) persistently inspired me on several occasions and was a great boss and storyteller. In the name of duty Oakley often pulled me out of classes (as he recognized my connections with students & families) to do home visits with families which at the time was unheard of because of his persuasive & persistent personality we often made great strides with his unique strategies. Another great contribution that Oakley gave to the community and education was the Albert Beach camps. Many x- students still approach me today sharing their childhood camp memories. He was notorious for his persuasiveness and to some staff dismay camp episodes at Ruth Hooker were mandatory. (heehee) Another one of his gifts was his ability to engage parents who could be reluctant/resistant/and or fearful. Oakley encouraged and promoted equality between staff/parents regardless of your title. Because of this persistence and perserverance he often brought out the best in his staff. I find these memories can bring great comfort and they often linger long after someone's demise. - Posted by: Theresa A Park (Co-worker @ ruth Hooker School) on: May 04, 2012

• Growing up with his grandchildren and having his daughters as close family friends I feel as if I've known Oakley his whole life. So many stories about the farm and wonderful life. Oakley had the most thrilling ways of telling a story, a talent that has thankfully been passed on in the family genes! He was also the first person to tell me about Ogopogo. I'm pretty sure that's the reason why I don't swim in Canadian lakes anymore! Although I'm so far away, please feel my hugs and prayers. - Posted by: Carling Henderson (Family Friend living in Australia) on: May 04, 2012

• Dawn, we were so sorry to hear of Oakley's death. Jim and I have many happy memories of times spent with you and Oakley back when we were neighbours and raising our families. In the "golden days" as our daughter Kim used to call them. You just couldn't beat a Friday night spent with the Southerns. To Lee, Theresa and Marc, you had a great Dad, he was a wonderful friend and neighbour, just a whole lot of fun to spend time with. Jim and Elaine May - Posted by: Elaine McCullough May Fellow teacher and friend () on: May 03, 2012

• My deepest sympathy to the family. Mr Southern was my grade 7 teacher in Robert Smith School in Selkirk. Many fond memories, one of course was the cow horn...... - Posted by: Dianne Fiwchuk nee Mcrae (Former student) on: May 03, 2012

• My deepest condolences to Dawn, Lee, Theresa, Mark and families on your loss. Oakley left me with a lot of wonderful and funny memories as my teacher in Central High in Selkirk. His dry sense of humour, his calm disposition and the cow horn are some of my fondest memories. I will never forget the first day I met my new teacher in Central High. He was standing at the front of the class leaning up against the wall. When everyone had settled in their seat he commented that he was not relaxing, he was holding up the wall. The school was so old and run down that we actually believed him. Whenever I recall my best memories of school, I think of Oakley. My thoughts are with all of you. Donna - Posted by: Donna Hoye (nee Williamson) (Friend and ex-student) on: May 03, 2012

• My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I have often reflected on the many pleasant evenings that Betty and I spent at your place on Walker Ave. They are good memories. Take care. Maurice - Posted by: maurice sarchuk () on: May 03, 2012

• I met Oakley and Dawn during our year at Normal School. I worked serving tables at breakfast and Oakley sat with his buddies at one of the tables I served. They all gave me a rough time but all in fun. I am on the planning committee for the 58th reunion of that year's class coming up in 2013. We on the committee have a great time reminiscing. Oakley's name came up at one of the meetings just recently. Today I offer my most sincere condolences to Dawn and the family. May they find great comfort in years to come in many wonderful happy memories of their lives. Sincerely Shirley [Richmond] Augustine Class of 54-55 - Posted by: Shirley [Richmond] Augustine (Manitoba Provincial Normal School Class of 54-55.) on: May 03, 2012